Matthew Ch 14
Verse 11 & 12 – these reveal many principles concerning life:
1). Reaping what you sow
2). Heredity’s affect
3). The affects of ministry/correct use of the law = leading to Jesus.
The daughter of Herod did that which she had been before instructed! Her mother in requesting this of her daughter showed that she had also by ‘dance’ enticed Herod’s favour. Hence, her own heart used seductive subtlety to increase her social & material wealth/influence!
She taught her daughter how to use the skills which had served her so well (in her mind!). This root of selfishness & covetousness is manifested by its reaction to that which is lawful!
Consider how God honoured Philip here, verse 4.
God was considerate of this man & his loss!
God also understood the outworking of this on the daughter & then Society at large. A society that promotes individuality & no absolute laws concerning personal choices is bound to see the increase of; violence, aggression, isolation, loneliness & hardness of heart.
Contrast the disciples of John with the daughter of Herodias. The fruit of following John was to go to Jesus. The righteousness of the law will lead a man to Jesus (Romans Ch7 v24-25). True preaching is not the law, that is just a tool for conviction of sin. Preaching is the uplifting of the availability of a transformed life/heredity through Jesus Christ.
Jesus, verse 13, leads them to Gods ordering. Where God provides!
The old established order (John Ch 10 v24) is evident in both Herods system and the Pharisees order.
A man either lives unto God or is stuck in the ‘Matrix’ of sins system. Religion/Law can not make a man live unto God, only faith can lead into Gods provisions!
“Feed my Sheep” – ministry is not law, it is ‘beheaded’ due to our first birth! Ministry is Gods provision through his word for our needs. My sheep hear my voice, ‘It is Finished’.
Jesus took them out of what Cain built – ‘Cities’ built due to Cain’s own labours and the absence of worship in his life (living in Gods provision).
Jesus gave far more (they had all things common) than this world could.
Herodias had to be on constant guard of; competition, reprimands, fading beauty & knowing her own heart she feared the hearts of others. Hence, her relentless pursuit to attain, like those who built Babel, a place of security on this earth.
Jesus sets the heart free for living for one another – “Let Us” – Genesis Ch 11 v7 “Go down” & establish a new order. Not a ‘new world order’ – a new covenant, Grace & Truth came by the Word of God, Jesus Christ.
In a desert place he fed hungry hearts.
Does this life seem like a bad episode of X factor, individuals pursuing fame and fortune – Do I seek for something that’s pure and free – something that’s a provisions for me – food for my soul!
Isaiah Ch 55 V 1.
eternalrays 