King James Version
What Does Matthew 14:3 Mean?
“For Herod had laid hold on John, and bound him, and put him in prison for Herodias' sake, his brother Philip's wife.”
Context
1
At that time Herod the tetrarch heard of the fame of Jesus, tetrarch: or, governor over four provinces
2
And said unto his servants, This is John the Baptist; he is risen from the dead; and therefore mighty works do shew forth themselves in him. do: or, are wrought by him
3
For Herod had laid hold on John, and bound him, and put him in prison for Herodias' sake, his brother Philip's wife.
4
For John said unto him, It is not lawful for thee to have her.
5
And when he would have put him to death, he feared the multitude, because they counted him as a prophet.
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(3) **Put him in prison.**—Josephus (*Ant.* xviii. 5, § 2) gives Machærus, in Peræa, as the scene of the imprisonment and death of the Baptist.
Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.
Historical Context
This verse is found in the book of Matthew. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.
Theological Significance
Matthew 14:3 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Cross-References
Verses related to Matthew 14:3
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge