New Testament
Matthew 14:5
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Herod wanted to kill John, but he was afraid of the people, because they considered John a prophet.
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And when he would have put him to death, he feared the multitude, because they counted him as a prophet.
What Matthew 14:5 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, we see King Herod's internal conflict regarding John the Baptist. Although Herod wanted to execute John, he hesitated because he feared the backlash from the people. The crowd viewed John as a prophet, which gave him significant influence and respect among them. Herod's fear of losing public support prevented him from acting on his desire to kill John. This highlights the tension between personal desires and public opinion, showing how leaders can be swayed by the sentiments of the people they govern. Herod's fear illustrates the consequences of prioritizing reputation over righteousness, as he ultimately allowed his fear to dictate his actions rather than his moral judgment. This moment foreshadows the eventual execution of John, revealing the tragic outcome of Herod's indecision and the power of public perception in political decisions.
How to apply Matthew 14:5 to your life
This verse reminds us to consider the impact of our decisions on others. Leaders should strive to act with integrity, even when faced with pressure from public opinion. It encourages us to prioritize moral values over fear of backlash, ensuring our actions align with our beliefs.
Curated for this public verse page. Matthew Summary
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Illustrated scene from John the Baptist's story: John Is Put in Prison (Matthew 14:3–5)
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John the Baptist
Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002725045). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Nazareth, Israel; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.
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Nazareth
The small town in Galilee where Jesus grew up.
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At a Glance — the Book of Matthew
- Author
- Matthew the apostle
- Written
- Around AD 60-70
- Genre
- Gospel
- Original Audience
- Jewish Christians
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Matthew 14:5 mean?
Matthew 14:5 illustrates King Herod's struggle between his desire to kill John the Baptist and his fear of the people's reaction. The verse shows how public opinion can influence a leader's decisions, highlighting the tension between personal desires and the need to maintain support from the populace.
What is the significance of John being called a prophet in Matthew 14:5?
In Matthew 14:5, John the Baptist is recognized as a prophet, which indicates his authority and the respect he commanded among the people. This status made Herod wary of executing him, as it could provoke public outrage and backlash.
Why did Herod fear the multitude in Matthew 14:5?
Herod feared the multitude in Matthew 14:5 because the people viewed John the Baptist as a prophet. Executing someone they respected could lead to unrest and jeopardize Herod's position as a ruler.
What does Matthew 14:5 teach about leadership?
Matthew 14:5 teaches that leaders must navigate the challenges of public opinion and personal convictions. It emphasizes the importance of making decisions that align with moral values, rather than succumbing to fear of backlash.
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