Today we will talk about which king wanted to kill baby Jesus. Many Christians do not know what this means. The story is not just about events but also reveals God’s plan for humanity and His Son’s arrival into the world. The narrative centers around King Herod, who, upon hearing of Jesus’ birth, felt threatened and sought to eliminate this perceived rival. As we read through God’s Word, let’s reflect on the significance of this account, the motives behind Herod’s actions, and the powerful themes of God’s protection and purpose. Be on the mode of meditation as we read through God’s Word.
Which king wanted to kill baby Jesus
The Historical and Political Context of King Herod
King Herod, also known as Herod the Great, ruled Judea from 37 BC until his death in 4 BC. His reign was marked by significant architectural achievements, including the expansion of the Second Temple in Jerusalem, but also by brutality and paranoia. His desire to maintain power often led to violent actions—including the execution of his family members. Understanding Herod’s character helps us grasp why he was threatened by the birth of Jesus. The announcement of a new king was not just a joyful event; it was a direct challenge to his authority. Herod’s reign reflects the darker side of worldly power and the lengths to which he would go to secure his position.
In the Gospel of Matthew, we find the stark presentation of Herod when he learns about the birth of Jesus. Matthew 2:1-3 states, “After Jesus was born in Bethlehem in Judea, during the time of King Herod, Magi from the east came to Jerusalem and asked, ‘Where is the one who has been born king of the Jews? We saw his star when it rose and have come to worship him.’ When King Herod heard this, he was disturbed, and all Jerusalem with him.” Herod’s reaction reveals his insecurities and complete disregard for divine authority.
The Hebrew root for “Herod” is related to the word for hero and has its etymology steeped in the tradition of robust power, yet historically, it represented cruelty masked in grandeur. In Greek, he’s often referred to as “Herodes,” conveying the same notion of royalty. His very name cast into light the tension between earthly power and divine purpose.
Herod’s fear and paranoia can be understood by examining Matthew 2:16-18, where it states, “When Herod realized that he had been outwitted by the Magi, he was furious, and he gave orders to kill all the boys in Bethlehem and its vicinity who were two years old and under.” The decision to perform such a barbaric act speaks volumes about his desire to eliminate any threat to his throne, even an innocent child.
Herod’s Consultation with the Religious Leaders
After hearing from the Magi, Herod sought counsel from the Jewish priests and scribes to ascertain where the Messiah would be born. This moment illustrates the irony of the situation; the religious leaders, who knew the prophecies, were indifferent to the very prophecy they taught.
In Matthew 2:4-6, we see, “He called together all the chief priests and teachers of the law and asked them where the Messiah was to be born. ‘In Bethlehem in Judea,’ they replied, ‘for this is what the prophet has written: But you, Bethlehem, in the land of Judah, are by no means least among the rulers of Judah; for out of you will come a ruler who will shepherd my people Israel.’” This prophecy from Micah 5:2 highlights God’s plan for the Messiah and underscores how the leaders were aware yet indifferent, prioritizing Herod’s whims over what they knew to be true.
The Greek word for “chief priests” is “archiereus,” indicating their elite status in Jewish hierarchy. Their unwillingness to act on the prophecy reveals a spiritual blindness that characterizes too many of us—we may know the truth but fail to apply it to our lives.
This particularly alarming passivity shows how power can corrupt the mind and heart, leading individuals to ignore the greater cosmic battle at play. Instead of celebrating Jesus’s arrival, they went along with Herod’s wicked scheme, which is reflected in Matthew 2:7, where Herod covertly seeks information from the Magi regarding the authorities in Bethlehem. The priests’ inaction serves as a reminder to us to be vigilant and receptive to the moves of God.
Herod’s Deceitful Plot and its Impact
Having received the information he sought, Herod devised a sinister plan to eliminate Jesus by tricking the Magi into reporting his findings. In Matthew 2:8, he tells them, “Go and search carefully for the child. As soon as you find him, report to me, so that I too may go and worship him.” His words were a complete façade; there was no intention to honor the child, only to extinguish the threat that he represented.
Importantly, Herod’s actions underscore the wickedness that can stem from fear and jealousy. When we let insecurity rule our lives, we may resort to deceit and coercion to feel safe or in control. Herod illustrates how dangerous unchecked power and ambition can be. His duplicity further complicates the situation as it brings the Magi into his scheme. However, God’s intervention prevails, as seen in Matthew 2:12, when the Magi are warned in a dream not to return to Herod.
In reflecting on this story, we can glean valuable lessons about honesty, integrity, and seeking God’s guidance. Just as the Magi followed a star, we too should strive to follow the light of Christ. Connecting this to the Greek term “metanoia,” which means a transformative change of heart, we recognize that both Herod’s motives and responses are ripe with the need for spiritual reflection.
The Escape to Egypt
After the Magi left, an angel of the Lord appeared to Joseph in a dream, instructing him to flee to Egypt with Mary and Jesus. This divine intervention was crucial for ensuring Jesus’s safety. In Matthew 2:13, the angel says, “Take the child and his mother and escape to Egypt. Stay there until I tell you, for Herod is going to search for the child to kill him.” This directive underscores God’s active role in protecting His Son and fulfilling His mission.
The journey to Egypt also carries historical weight. Egypt was a place of refuge for the Israelites during a time of famine, and it becomes a symbol of safety for Jesus and His family. In understanding this, we gain insights into God’s providence in times of peril. The name “Egypt” in Hebrew (Mitzrayim) translates to “the place of transition,” embodying a deeper metaphor for the spiritual journey all believers must undergo.
Joseph’s obedience in taking Mary and Jesus to Egypt reflects trust amidst uncertainty. He could have dismissed the dream as mere imagination but acted upon it, demonstrating the importance of being attentive to God’s messages in our lives. God’s instruction to Joseph can resonate with us; we are often called into unknown paths that require faith and courage.
The Aftermath of Herod’s Regime
After Herod’s death, an angel again appeared to Joseph, instructing him to return to Israel. This moment, recorded in Matthew 2:19-21, marks the beginning of a new chapter for Jesus as His mission unfolds. “After Herod died, an angel of the Lord appeared in a dream to Joseph in Egypt and said, ‘Get up, take the child and his mother and go to the land of Israel, for those who were trying to take the child’s life are dead.’ So he got up, took the child and his mother and went to the land of Israel.”
The death of Herod is symbolic of the victory of God’s plan over evil intentions. This parallel reflects how earthly kingdoms rise and fall, while the Kingdom of God remains steadfast. The usage of the Greek word “geo,” meaning “land” or “earth,” emphasizes Jesus’s authority over all (Matthew 28:18), even as He begins His earthly ministry. Joseph’s return signifies hope and new beginnings—a reminder that amid turmoil, God provides new paths for our lives.
This brings to light how sometimes, we may confront adversities or struggles that feel overwhelming, but just like Jesus’ family, we can expect God’s guidance. His commands are not burdensome; they guide us toward His intended plan for our lives. His purpose cannot be thwarted no matter the adversities we face.
Final Thoughts
Through our discussion on which king wanted to kill baby Jesus, we uncover the depth and richness of God’s narrative involving Herod, the Magi, and the holy family. Herod’s fear and cruelty contrast sharply with the hope and promise represented by Jesus. We learned how important it is to stay sensitive to God’s voice and to act upon it, just as Joseph did. His journey from Bethlehem to Egypt and back symbolizes our own movements through life’s uncertainties under God’s guidance.
We also reflected on the broader themes of power, fear, and divine protection. Herod’s actions reflect the dangers that arise when we let insecurity take hold in our lives. On the other hand, God’s faithfulness towards the Holy Family offers reassurance that His purposes will prevail. Jesus’s birth marked a turning point in history, and from that moment, everything was set in motion toward the redemption of mankind.
As we contemplate these truths, let us remember the lessons learned from Herod and the steadfast faithfulness of God. Our lives, just like those of the characters in this story, are filled with choices that reflect our understanding and acceptance of God’s leading. May we always choose to follow His light.
Further Reading
30 Bible Verses About Getting Closer To God (With Commentary)
30 Bible Verses About Removing People From Your Life (With Commentary)
30 Bible Verses About Israel (With Explanation)
30 Bible Verses About Being Lukewarm (With Explanation)
4 Ways to Encounter Grace and Truth: A Study on John, Chapter 4