Matthew 14:4 – “for John had been saying to him: ‘It is not lawful for you to have her.'”
An Extended Explanation of the Verse
This verse reveals John the Baptist’s bold confrontation of Herod Antipas regarding his marriage to Herodias, his brother Philip’s wife. John openly declared that this relationship was against God’s law. His statement wasn’t a one-time remark; the phrase “had been saying” indicates that John repeatedly confronted Herod about his sin. John’s unwavering stance demonstrates his commitment to proclaiming God’s truth, regardless of the consequences. This confrontation was the direct cause of Herodias’s hatred for John and Herod’s eventual decision to imprison him.
Historical Context
Herod Antipas’s marriage to Herodias was a scandal that violated Jewish law. Herodias was both Herod’s niece and the wife of his brother Philip, making the relationship unlawful (Leviticus 18:16; Leviticus 20:21). In first-century Jewish society, such unions were condemned as immoral. John the Baptist’s role as a prophet compelled him to speak out against this sin, even though Herod was a powerful ruler. Herodias, who likely saw John’s words as a personal attack, became determined to silence him permanently, setting the stage for his eventual martyrdom.
Theological Implications
This verse highlights the responsibility of God’s people to stand for truth, even when it challenges those in authority. John’s confrontation of Herod reminds us that God’s laws are not subject to human authority or cultural trends. His courage also points to the cost of discipleship—faithfulness to God may lead to rejection, persecution, or even death. Theologically, this verse affirms that sin, regardless of who commits it, must be addressed and called out, as it separates people from God’s holiness.
Literary Analysis
Matthew 14:4 is a pivotal verse that sets the moral and spiritual tone of the surrounding narrative. The repeated declaration, “It is not lawful for you to have her,” emphasizes John’s persistent courage and his prophetic role. This confrontation contrasts John’s righteousness with Herod’s moral corruption and Herodias’s vengeful scheming. The verse also serves as a turning point, leading directly to John’s imprisonment and eventual execution. It reflects the larger Gospel theme of opposition to God’s messengers by those who reject His authority.
Biblical Cross-References
- Leviticus 18:16 and Leviticus 20:21: These laws explicitly prohibit the kind of relationship Herod and Herodias had.
- Mark 6:18-19: A parallel account that provides additional detail about Herodias’s hostility toward John.
- 2 Samuel 12:1-13: Nathan’s confrontation of King David’s sin parallels John’s boldness in addressing Herod’s wrongdoing.
- Luke 3:19-20: Highlights John’s fearless rebuke of Herod for multiple sins, not just his marriage.
- Matthew 5:10-12: Jesus blesses those who are persecuted for righteousness, echoing John’s situation.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For Christians today, this verse challenges us to live with integrity and courage, even when it’s difficult. John’s example reminds us that standing for truth often means speaking out against sin, even when it’s unpopular or comes at a personal cost. It also teaches us the importance of aligning our lives with God’s standards, not societal norms or personal desires. As believers, we are called to stand firm in God’s truth while showing grace and humility in how we address others.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
God’s love is evident in His desire for people to repent and live according to His ways. By confronting Herod, John served as an instrument of God’s love and justice, offering Herod and Herodias an opportunity to turn from their sin. This verse also shows that God’s standards are rooted in His care for humanity’s well-being and His desire for holiness. God’s love does not ignore sin but calls people to repentance for their ultimate good.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
John the Baptist’s boldness in confronting sin reflects the same mission Jesus carried out during His ministry. Jesus frequently challenged sin and hypocrisy, especially among the religious and political leaders of His time (Matthew 23:13-39). John’s role as the forerunner of Christ prepared the way for Jesus, who would offer ultimate forgiveness and redemption through His death and resurrection (John 1:29). Additionally, John’s imprisonment and eventual death foreshadow the rejection and suffering Jesus would endure for the sake of truth and righteousness (Matthew 27:1-31).
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- How can John’s example encourage us to stand for God’s truth in today’s world?
- In what ways do we face challenges when confronting sin, either in ourselves or others?
- How can we balance speaking the truth with showing love and grace to those who need to hear it?
- What does this verse teach us about the cost of following God and standing for righteousness?
- How does John’s courage inspire us to trust in God’s justice, even when it seems like the wicked prosper?