King James Version

What Does Matthew 14:5 Mean?

Matthew 14:5 in the King James Version says “And when he would have put him to death, he feared the multitude, because they counted him as a prophet.” — study this verse from Matthew chapter 14 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.

“And when he would have put him to death, he feared the multitude, because they counted him as a prophet.”

Matthew 14:5 · KJV

Context

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

7

Whereupon he promised with an oath to give her whatsoever she would ask.

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Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
'And when he would have put him to death, he feared the multitude, because they counted him as a prophet.' Herod wanted to execute John but was restrained by political calculation: the people 'counted him as a prophet' (ὡς προφήτην αὐτὸν εἶχον/hōs prophētēn auton eichon). Mark adds Herod also feared John personally and was perplexed by him (Mark 6:20). This verse reveals Herod's moral cowardice: knowing John was righteous, Herod preferred silencing him but feared popular backlash. Reformed theology observes that unregenerate rulers often recognize and fear God's messengers while refusing to repent. Herod acknowledged John's prophetic status (through others' estimation) but wouldn't submit to his message. Fear of people restrained Herod temporarily—but ultimately Herodias's manipulation overcame his hesitation (v.6-11). The verse also shows John's popularity despite—or because of—his uncompromising message. People recognized authentic prophetic voice even when religious establishment rejected it. This pattern repeats: genuine prophets often have more popular support than institutional backing.

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Historical & Cultural Context

John the Baptist's popularity was enormous. Matthew 3:5 states 'Jerusalem, and all Judaea, and all the region round about Jordan' went to hear him. Josephus confirms John's widespread following, noting Herod feared his influence might incite rebellion (Antiquities 18.5.2). Popular prophetic movements often threatened Roman-backed rulers' stability. Herod's father (Herod the Great) had massacred Bethlehem's infants to eliminate messianic threat (Matthew 2:16-18). The family was paranoid about rivals. Herod Antipas inherited this fear while lacking his father's ruthlessness. He imprisoned John as compromise: silencing him without martyring him and inflaming popular outrage. This political calculation temporarily succeeded but ultimately failed. Herodias exploited Herod's moment of weakness (rash vow during birthday banquet) to force John's execution (v.6-11). The account demonstrates how political expedience and moral cowardice combine to persecute God's servants. Pilate showed similar dynamics: wanting to release Jesus but fearing political consequences (John 19:12-16).

Reflection Questions

  1. What does Herod's fear of people (rather than God) teach about the difference between human respect and genuine repentance?
  2. How do political leaders today suppress prophetic voices while avoiding public backlash for doing so?
  3. What role should churches play in supporting prophetic witnesses who face persecution from authorities?

Original Language Analysis

Greek · 12 words
καὶ1 of 12

“And”

G2532

and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words

θέλων2 of 12

“when he would”

G2309

to determine (as an active option from subjective impulse; whereas g1014 properly denotes rather a passive acquiescence in objective considerations),

αὐτὸν3 of 12

“him”

G846

the reflexive pronoun self, used (alone or in the comparative g1438) of the third person, and (with the proper personal pronoun) of the other persons

ἀποκτεῖναι4 of 12

“have put”

G615

to kill outright; figuratively, to destroy

ἐφοβήθη5 of 12

“he feared”

G5399

to frighten, i.e., (passively) to be alarmed; by analogy, to be in awe of, i.e., revere

τὸν6 of 12
G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

ὄχλον7 of 12

“the multitude”

G3793

a throng (as borne along); by implication, the rabble; by extension, a class of people; figuratively, a riot

ὅτι8 of 12

“because”

G3754

demonstrative, that (sometimes redundant); causative, because

ὡς9 of 12

“as”

G5613

which how, i.e., in that manner (very variously used, as follows)

προφήτην10 of 12

“a prophet”

G4396

a foreteller ("prophet"); by analogy, an inspired speaker; by extension, a poet

αὐτὸν11 of 12

“him”

G846

the reflexive pronoun self, used (alone or in the comparative g1438) of the third person, and (with the proper personal pronoun) of the other persons

εἶχον12 of 12

“they counted”

G2192

to hold (used in very various applications, literally or figuratively, direct or remote; such as possession; ability, contiuity, relation, or conditio

Study Guide

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 14:5 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 14:5 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Matthew 21:26Matthew 11:9Mark 6:19-20Acts 5:26Luke 20:6Mark 11:30-32

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