The Gospel Wins

Acts 12:20–23 (ESV) Now Herod was angry with the people of Tyre and Sidon, and they came to him with one accord, and having persuaded Blastus, the king’s chamberlain, they asked for peace, because their country depended on the king’s country for food. 21 On an appointed day Herod put on his royal robes, took his seat upon the throne, and delivered an oration to them. 22 And the people were shouting, “The voice of a god, and not of a man!” 23 Immediately an angel of the Lord struck him down, because he did not give God the glory, and he was eaten by worms and breathed his last.

This passage is ripe with idolatry.

The people of Tyre and Sidon saw in Herod a source of food and sustenance. They sought his favor praised his speech. They looked to government to solve their problems and elevated the head of that government above God from whom all good things come.

Herod sought the praises of people, to seem god-like to them. His idol was self-importance. Notice the detail of his "royal robes" his "seat upon the throne" and delivering "an oration" whereby he performs and they praise his skills. 

Herod also wanted to be seen as the supplier, the one who was so necessary and important for the people of these regions. How often we fall into the trap of trying to be all things to all people, to be some sort of 'savior' to those who 'need' us. 

Idol's are made to fall. And that's what happens for both the cities and the "king" they worshipped.

This moment is also recorded by the Jewish Historian Josephus - in 44 A.D. Herod is struck down and dies.

What is the epitaph of this "king?"

Acts 12:24 (ESV) But the word of God increased and multiplied.

Jesus said this message would be proclaimed to the "whole world" (Matthew 24:14). Here in this chapter, Herod tries to stop it, trying to cut down two of Jesus' inner three Apostles... James is dead, Peter is in jail. If you read just to verse 5 it doesn't look good for Christianity. Key leaders are dying or being imprisoned, the crowds worship this false hope of a governmental figurehead... and Herod is garbed in royal robes and seated on a royal throne.

But in one chapter, God delivers Peter miraculously, strikes down Herod immediately, and raises up Paul powerfully to go from Jerusalem to the uttermost parts of the Earth and become the second most important voice in Christianity. 

Wow.

Never believe the Church is without hope. The World will have it's time in the sun, a few hours here or there, but Jesus is STILL building his church. Either by miracles, the removal of governmental systems, or raising up a new young pup in the passion to preach Jesus all over the world. 

It's pages like this that give me hope!

PRAYER:

Father I ask that you raise up preachers and prophets in this country. Use me and if not me then many others to draw people to Yourself by Jesus Christ Your Son. I look forward to Your work, and I ask to be a mighty part of what You want to do in turning this country back to you. AMEN.