17-20 Herod was the one who had ordered the arrest of John, put him in chains, and sent him to prison at the nagging of Herodias, his brother Philip’s wife. For John had provoked Herod by naming his relationship with Herodias “adultery.” Herodias, smoldering with hate, wanted to kill him, but didn’t dare because Herod was in awe of John. Convinced that he was a holy man, he gave him special treatment. Whenever he listened to him he was miserable with guilt—and yet he couldn’t stay away. Something in John kept pulling him back.

Read full chapter

Bible Gateway Recommends

The Message Student Bible (Softcover)
The Message Student Bible (Softcover)
Retail: $24.99
Our Price: $19.49
Save: $5.50 (22%)
The Message Bible, Dusty Rose Floral Large Print Leather-Look
The Message Bible, Dusty Rose Floral Large Print Leather-Look
Retail: $59.99
Our Price: $44.99
Save: $15.00 (25%)
4.5 of 5.0 stars
The Message Prayerful Reading Bible: Luke & Acts
The Message Prayerful Reading Bible: Luke & Acts
Retail: $7.99
Our Price: $2.99
Save: $5.00 (63%)
The Message Full Size--soft leather-look, life-light black
The Message Full Size--soft leather-look, life-light black
Retail: $59.99
Our Price: $47.99
Save: $12.00 (20%)
5.0 of 5.0 stars