Who were the Herodians in the New Testament?

TL;DR:

The Herodians were a political group in the first century AD who supported the Roman leader King Herod Antipas. The Herodians remind us that we cannot serve both God and man.

understand

The Herodians and the Zealots represented opposite extremes in their approach to Roman rule in Israel. While the Zealots advocated for God alone to lead Israel and engaged in activism and military opposition against Roman control, the Herodians were more willing to compromise and collaborate with Roman authorities, including King Herod, for personal gain.

Despite their differences, the Herodians and the Pharisees found common ground in their opposition to Jesus and plotted against Him.

Jesus cautioned His disciples against the teachings and attitudes of both the Pharisees and the Herodians and negatively likened their influence to leaven.

reflect

Reflect on a time when you faced a choice between following your convictions and seeking personal gain. How did you handle it, and what was the outcome?

Consider Jesus' warning about the "leaven of the Herodians and Pharisees" and think about any modern-day influences that might lead you to compromise your faith. How can you stay vigilant against these influences?

In what areas of your life might you be tempted to prioritize social acceptance or personal benefits over God's teachings? How can you realign your priorities to follow God more closely?

engage

Although politics are important, how can we prioritize following God and His ways instead of trusting in a political movement or party?

What can we learn from the example of the Herodians about the dangers of compromising with worldly powers?

Despite their differences, the Herodians and Pharisees united in their opposition to Jesus. What does this tell us about people and the power of common goals, both positive and negative? In the various groups in which we take part, how can we ensure group unity serves God’s purposes rather than opposes them?