18 Now when day came, there was no little disturbance among the soldiers over what had become of Peter. 19 And after Herod searched for him and did not find him, he examined the sentries and ordered that they should be put to death. Then he went down from Judea to Caesarea and spent time there.
20 Now Herod was angry with the people of Tyre and Sidon, and they came to him with one accord, and having persuaded Blastus, the king’s chamberlain, they asked for peace, because their country depended on the king’s country for food. 21 On an appointed day Herod put on his royal robes, took his seat upon the throne, and delivered an oration to them. 22 And the people were shouting, “The voice of a god, and not of a man!” 23 Immediately an angel of the Lord struck him down, because he did not give God the glory, and he was eaten by worms and breathed his last.
24 But the word of God increased and multiplied.
25 And Barnabas and Saul returned from Jerusalem when they had completed their service, bringing with them John, whose other name was Mark.
(ESV)
STOP! Think a little 🤔 What is God saying to you?
- What is the writer saying?
- How do I apply this to my life?
Luke continues the story back at the prison, likely the next morning. The soldiers are unsettled over the disappearance of Peter. They had no idea how he could be missing and were clearly innocent. After Herod was unsuccessful in locating Peter, he interrogated the guards and then had them put to death. Then Herod went from Judea to spend some time in Caesarea.
Herod was angry with the people of the cities of Tyre and Sidon. Having befriended his chamberlain, Blastus, they came together before Herod asking for peace because of their dependence on Galilee for food. On the day he was to conclude their arrangement, he dressed in royal robes, sat on his throne, and addressed the people. They exclaimed that he spoke with “the voice of a God and not of a man.” Because he accepted their praise and didn’t give God the glory, he was struck by an angel of the Lord and died.
In contrast to Herod’s consequence, the word of God brought about life and growth in the church.
Barnabas and Saul returned to Antioch having completed their ministry. They brought John Mark back to Antioch with them.
God expects and deserves the place of preeminence in creation. We were put on this earth to bring Him glory. Are you living your life to God’s glory or your own? How can you correct that and give God the glory in your life today?
Major Stories of the Bible Reading Plan
Paul Defends His Apostleship: Galatians 1-2