JOHN’S IMPRISONMENT AND DEATH, Chapter 17 of Kingdom of God Volume 2

JOHN’S IMPRISONMENT AND DEATH, Chapter 17 of Kingdom of God Volume 2
 
Pages 129-134

Know assuredly, dear brethren, that it is for the testimony of Jesus that we are in bonds and in prison. But we say unto you, that we consider that our condition is better (notwithstanding our sufferings) than that of those who have persecuted us, . . . (Joseph Smith, TPJS, p. 123)
 
Herod Antipas and his father, Herod the Great, were both noted for corruption, immorality and bloodshed. Antipas was tetrarch, or king, of Galilee and Perea, and thus was considered a ruthless king of the Jews. He fell in love with Herodias, his brother Philip’s wife, and John rebuked the king and said, “It is not lawful for thee to have her.” (Matt. 24:4) This was a double crime, according to the law of Moses: first of incest (Lev. 18:16), and secondly, he was living with another man’s wife. (Lev. 20:10) Herod was stunned and a little hesitant at this strange fellow who had so much influence with the people. Josephus the historian wrote:
 
Now, when others came in crowds about him [John], for they were greatly moved by hearing his words, Herod, who feared lest the great influence John had over the people might put it into his power and inclination to raise rebellion, thought it best by putting him to death. (Antiquities of the Jews, Bk. 8, 5:2)
 
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