36 - Jesus Before Herod

The Silence of the Innocent: A Revelation of Truth

Bible Passage: Luke 23:6–12

Summary: In this passage, we see Jesus brought before Herod during His trial. Herod, intrigued by Jesus, seeks to see Him perform a miracle but is met with silence, showcasing the contrast between earthly power and divine purpose.

Application: This passage highlights how often we look to the world for validation and entertainment instead of embracing the silence and stillness of God. It encourages believers to reflect on their expectations of Jesus and be open to His ways, even when they differ from what we desire.

Teaching: This sermon could teach that true wisdom and strength lie in understanding Jesus' silence in our lives. Instead of seeking signs or miracles, we are called to trust in God’s overarching plan, which often unfolds silently and subtly.

How this passage could point to Christ: This passage points to Christ as the ultimate fulfillment of the prophecies of old, where His silence signifies not weakness, but a steadfast commitment to His mission of salvation. His presence before Herod invites us to see the culmination of all hope in Him, even in the midst of injustice.

Big Idea: God's plan is often revealed in the silence and the seeming inactivity of Jesus, reminding us that our faith must transcend our immediate desire for signs and wonders.

Recommended Study: Consider exploring the historical context of Herod's reign and his relationship with the Jewish leaders, which will inform your audience about the political landscape at the time. Use Logos to delve into commentaries on the significance of Jesus' silence and its theological implications, looking into how this theme of silence recurs in the Gospels and its impact on faith and understanding.

1. Herod's Yearning for Spectacle

Luke 23:6–7

Perhaps you could explore how Herod's curiosity represents the world's yearning for spectacle. Herod sought entertainment from Jesus, but Jesus responded with silence. This silence invites us to perceive God's power not in grand displays, but in quiet faithfulness. It challenges us to examine our own expectations of Jesus and to find assurance in His purposeful silence, trusting in God’s sovereign plan even when it is not immediately visible.

2. Herod's Anticipation of Performance

Luke 23:8–9

You could highlight how the anticipation of miracles is often contrasted with the genuine call to follow Jesus. Herod was not interested in the truth of who Jesus was, but rather in a performance. Jesus’ refusal to entertain points to His unwavering focus on fulfilling His mission. This silence challenges us to move beyond the superficial, encouraging believers to root their faith in the constancy of Jesus’ purpose and promises.

3. Herod's Irony of Mockery

Luke 23:10–12

Maybe you could discuss the dynamic between Jesus' silence and the mockery from Herod and his soldiers. This irony points to Jesus' silent strength and the fulfillment of God’s redemptive work. Instead of reacting, Jesus models the strength found in restraint. This teaches us that God is often at work behind the scenes, encouraging us to trust and remain faithful even when the world seems unjust or chaotic.

What does the silence of Jesus before Herod reveal about His character and mission?

Why do you think Herod sought entertainment from Jesus rather than seeking the truth?

How can we apply the lesson of trusting God’s plan in silence to our own lives today?

In what ways does this passage challenge our expectations of how God should act in our lives?

What role does silence play in deepening our understanding of faith according to this sermon?

How does Herod’s response to Jesus help us understand the difference between faith and curiosity?

What do you think God wants us to learn when He chooses to be silent in our lives?

How does Jesus’ silence before mockery demonstrate strength and grace?

Why might Jesus' refusal to perform for Herod be important for understanding true faith?

What does this passage teach you about the importance of seeking deeper truths rather than superficial signs?