The Death and Legacy of John the Baptist (Mark 6:14-29)

In Mark 6:14-29 we’ll explore the question “What shapes your picture of Jesus?” Herod’s picture was shaped by a guilty conscience. He had killed John the Baptist, and now he thought John had come back from the dead in the form of Jesus. John the Baptist had called out Herod’s sin, so Herod locked him up. But though he was disturbed by John’s judgment, he was also curious about his message. Many seekers today feel the same way about Jesus. In a moment of weakness Herod sold out John the Baptist and had him beheaded. It’s a frightening example of how easily we can be influenced to turn away from the pathway that can lead us to Christ. John surprisingly had his own crisis of faith while he was in prison, and he sent his disciples to ask Jesus if he really was the Messiah. Jesus’ answer is a reminder that true followers will stay faithful to the end, even in the face of violence.