DAY 4: HEROD – A MAN THREATENED
Read Matthew 2:1-8, 16-18.
Jesus is said to be “a stone that causes men to stumble and a rock that makes them fall.” (1 Pet. 2:8) That description is given toward those who do not believe, and certainly that is true of Herod. Interesting is the detail that “all Jerusalem” along with Herod was equally troubled. Why would they be troubled? Probably because it would completely disrupt their lives. Certainly a threat to Herod’s rule would be at the very least inconvenient for Herod. For the people of Jerusalem, they might experience a possible increase in oppression since Jesus would be seen as a Jewish threat.
To what extent did Herod go to eliminate the threat (2:16)?
To consider: Many people go to great lengths to keep the disruption of Jesus from their lives. Can you recall a time when you did the same? What were the results?
The truth of the matter is, the disruption that Jesus brings is meant for our good. It is only until we recognize the goodness of Christ that we will accept that disruption and follow Him. The next time you feel “disrupted” by Christ, avoid the tendency to eliminate the threat, and accept it as good from Him.
To consider: What “interruptions” or “disruptions” have you experienced lately? How have you seen these as the work of God?
