King James Version
What Does Matthew 14:4 Mean?
“For John said unto him, It is not lawful for thee to have her.”
Context
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.
6
But when Herod's birthday was kept, the daughter of Herodias danced before them , and pleased Herod. before: Gr. in the midst
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(4) **For John said unto him.**—The Jewish historian (*Ant.* xviii. 5, § 2) states more generally that Antipas was afraid lest some popular outbreak should be the result of the preaching of the Baptist, working on the excitable peasantry of Galilee.
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 14:4 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 14:4
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge