Gospel of Mark Part 32: Weakness in the Seat of Power [Small Group Discussion]

Scripture Focus

Mark 6:14–29

Opening Question

Why do you think some people in power seem so strong outwardly, yet are often the weakest when it comes to morality and conviction?

Background

Herod Antipas was the son of Herod the Great and tetrarch of Galilee and Perea. Though history remembers him as a man of influence, Scripture reveals his deep moral weakness. He was superstitious, immoral, and easily manipulated. His sinful choices led him to behead John the Baptist, a righteous man of God.

This study compares the weakness of Herod’s worldly power with the strength of John’s spiritual conviction.

Key Points

1. Herod’s Position

   • Antipas ruled Galilee and Perea for 42 years.

   • He had opportunity to be a wise leader but allowed sin to ruin him.

   • Jesus described him as “that fox” (Luke 13:32)—crafty, but untrustworthy and weak.

     
     

2. Herod’s Failings

   • Superstitious – Thought Jesus was John the Baptist risen from the dead (Mark 6:14–16).

   • Immoral – Committed incest and adultery by marrying Herodias (Mark 6:17–18).

   • Manipulated – Feared crowds, fell to lust, and caved to Herodias’ schemes, leading to John’s death.

     
     

3. John’s Conviction

   • Boldly declared God’s truth, even when it put him in danger.

   • Refused to compromise on sin.

   • Lost his life but gained eternal honor. Jesus declared: “Among those born of women there has not arisen anyone greater than John the Baptist” (Matthew 11:11).

     
     

     

Application

• We may not sit on thrones, but God has given each of us influence—in our homes, jobs, and communities.

• Like Herod, we can misuse influence when pride, fear, or immorality rule us.

• Like John, we can use influence for God’s glory by standing on truth, even when it costs us.

• Jesus reminds us: “For what will it profit a man if he gains the whole world and forfeits his soul?” (Matthew 16:26).

Discussion Questions

1. What do Herod’s actions teach us about the dangers of pride and fear?

2. Why do you think Herod liked listening to John, yet refused to repent? (Mark 6:20)

3. How does compromise open the door to greater sin?

4. In what areas of life are you tempted to “save face” instead of standing for truth?

5. What steps can you take this week to show conviction like John the Baptist?

Memory Verse

Matthew 16:26 – “For what will it profit a man if he gains the whole world and forfeits his soul? Or what will a man give in exchange for his soul?”

Prayer Focus

Pray for courage to stand for truth even when it costs something. Ask God to reveal areas where fear, pride, or compromise might be making you weak, and ask Him to give you strength like John the Baptist to remain faithful.

Available NOW on Amazon!