(story told in Matthew 2:1-22; Luke 1:5)
Herod the Great was the ruler of Judea when Jesus was born. Appointed by the Romans, he was known for his ambition, wealth, and grand building projects—including the expansion of the Temple in Jerusalem. Yet beneath his power and success, Herod was deeply insecure and feared losing control of his throne. His story in the Bible shows how pride and fear can lead even the most powerful people to do terrible things.
When wise men from the east arrived in Jerusalem, they asked, “Where is the one who has been born King of the Jews?” Herod was alarmed by their question. The thought of another “king” threatened him. He asked the priests where the Messiah was supposed to be born, and they told him it would be in Bethlehem. Pretending to be interested in worshiping the child, Herod told the wise men to find Him and report back.
But the wise men were warned by God not to return to Herod, and they left by another route. Furious that he had been deceived, Herod ordered the tragic massacre of all boys two years old and younger in Bethlehem, hoping to kill the newborn King. However, God warned Joseph in a dream to flee to Egypt with Mary and Jesus, saving the child from Herod’s cruelty.
Herod’s reign ended as it began—with fear and suspicion. Though he built magnificent cities, his legacy became one of violence and pride.
Herod’s story reminds us that power without humility leads to destruction. In contrast to his fear and cruelty, God’s true King—Jesus—came not to take power, but to bring peace, love, and salvation to the world.