GOSPEL READING
THE GOSPEL OF MARK
Herod Antipas: Mk 6,14-29
We begin by noting that there are two parts to this section. Who is the concern of the first part and who of the second? Why therefore have I labelled this section simply as "Herod"?
Herod and Jesus: 6,14-16
Herod in this story is Herod Antipas, the son of Herod the Great who ruled when Jesus was born (see Lk 1,5 and 3,1, take note of the different areas the two Herods ruled.)
With whom is Herod concerned in these verses? For the fame of Jesus see 1,28 and 5,10. For the powers of Jesus see 6,2. Note that the same three connections in verses 14 and 15 are also made in 8,28. For Elijah see 2 Kings 2,11-12.
Why does Herod see Jesus as another John the Baptist instead of taking up the other proposals?
What might "raised up" have meant to Herod?
Now have a look at my response.
Herod and John: 6,17-29
A story now follows and it is best read as such, a conflict which comes to a resolution. My comments therefore willbe a guide to highlight various aspects of the story.
Who is the driving force behind this story and for what purpose? See Leviticus 20,21. For background, consider 1 Kings 19,1-2.
How does Herod come across as a character in the story? Look ahead to 15,15 for similar behaviour.
For John's arrest see 1,14. Look at 10,31 and 14,26 and also 13,9. What is the significance of these references?
For Herod's offer of half his kingdom in verse 23, look at Esther 5,3.
How does the girl improve on her mother's offer in verse 25?
What is the significance of verse 29?
Now have a look at my response.
The story now continues with the return of the twelve and Jesus feeding the crowd, 6,30-44.