John the Baptist Beheaded

The Point of the Gospel

John the Baptist Beheaded

(Luke mentions John’s death in one brief sentence when Herod hears about the disciples’ ministry and wonders who Jesus might be. John, the Gospel writer, mentions John the Baptist only in regard to the Baptist’s take on who Jesus is. He focuses on the purpose and personhood of Jesus rather than the facts of his ministry.)

{Matthew} After instructing the twelve disciples on their ministry, Jesus taught and preached throughout Galilee. Herod had imprisoned John for publicly announcing that it was illegal for Herod to marry his brother’s wife, Herodias. He feared killing John because the people believed him a prophet.

{Mark} Herodias bore a grudge against John for his words on her marriage and wanted him dead, but Herod feared John and protected him since he knew John was a righteous and holy man. Greatly puzzled by him, Herod still liked to listen to him.

Payment for a Dance

{Matthew} The daughter of Herodias danced for Herod on his birthday. Pleased by the girl’s dance, Herod swore to give her whatever she wanted. {Mark} Herodias seized the opportunity of Herod’s banquet for his high officials, military commanders, and the leaders of Galilee. Herodias’s daughter danced for the men. Herod promised her anything even up to half his kingdom in reward. She went out to consult her mother on what to ask for.  

{Matthew, Mark} Coached by her mother, she asked for John the Baptist’s head on a platter. This upset Herod, but he couldn’t go back on his word in front of his dinner guests and ordered John beheaded in the prison. Given to the girl, she carried his head to her mother. John’s disciples buried his body and went to tell Jesus.