Hoping to See a Sign

Day 116: Luke 22:54-71, 23:1-12

“When Herod saw Jesus, he was very glad, for he had long desired to see him, because he had heard about him, and he was hoping to see some sign done by him.” - Luke‬ ‭23:8‬ ‭ESV‬‬

Again, we may be confused by which Herod this is, but this is Antipas whom we mentioned earlier that the Pharisees said wanted to kill Jesus (13:31) and whom our Savior had called a fox. He also was responsible for killing John the Baptist.

Now Herod wants (like before, 9:9) to see Jesus perform a miracle. The reputation of our Lord in Galilee preceded Him. As we’ve seen before, Jesus doesn’t respond well to those who are wanting to use Him for a spectacle. He is not a product to be used but a Savior to be worshiped.

Leon Morris' words describing this passage are helpful: "The interview must have disappointed Herod. He got no answer to his many questions. What could Jesus say to this trifler who wanted nothing more than a mild sensation? He never refused a sincere questioner, but Herod was not in that class. He is the only person to whom Jesus said nothing at all." - Morris, L. (1988). Luke: An Introduction and Commentary (Vol. 3, p. 339)

It is interesting to note, though, that both of these pagan rulers (in our reading today) acknowledge Jesus’ innocence.

How are you viewing Jesus today? Perhaps someone to give you what you want? Or is He someone who is desperately desiring to give you what you really need?

Unfortunately, Antipas wasn’t interested in life transformation, but I pray that we will come to Jesus differently. May we come expecting to be changed, better prepared for heaven.