“Opportune Opportunity for Opportunists” – MARK 6:21-24

Herod was apparently content to “enjoy” the preaching of John without responding to his message (6:20). His brother’s wife Herodias, whom Herod had stolen (6:17) did not share his joy regarding John. The Word of God is a persistent thing, and opportunities arise for all people to respond in self-denial and enthrone the True and Living God over our lives. If that was the only force pulling at us it would be much, much simpler. But, the Deceiver Satan (Revelation 12:9) is rather persistent himself. When there are choices to be made, He is coiled and ready to pounce at opportune moments (1 Peter 5:8, Genesis 4:7).

Herodias was an opportunist. Her decision to forsake one brother for another who could offer her more opportunities to wield power and enjoy the fruits of power was ample evidence. Now John would simply not shut up and let her do her thing. She was good at what she did and she knew Herod’s weaknesses and strengths that she could manipulate. He was a prideful man and his birthday party was a chance for sycophants to swarm around him and feed his ego (6:21). As Herodias had no doubt learned from experience, Herod was a lustful man who could be charmed. The opportunist found an opportune time and place to seize an opportunity … and she did not mind using her daughter to do it (6:22a).

Then came the question (6:22b).

Scripture often provides interesting contrasts between people by placing them in similar circumstances at different times and places. The comparison between Ahasuerus (Esther 1-5) and Herod and their wives (Vashti, Esther and Herodias) is such a case. Both men enjoyed a seductive dance at times when they threw parties to impress others and exalt themselves. Vashti seized that opportunity to refuse Ahasuerus and she lost her crown but saved her dignity.

The comparison becomes more defined when we see that a point came that each king asked the exact same question and made the exact same offer to women – “Ask for up to half my kingdom and I’ll give it to you” (Mark 6:22 and Esther 5:3).

Esther was noble-minded and righteous.

Herodias provided her daughter with an evil request (Mark 6:24b).

Not only does God speak clearly to people, but He allows them opportunity to make their own choices. Many times the choices we make are influenced by the people we invite into our “inner circle”.

Herod was in a spot. His ego was ripe for manipulation at this birthday party with all of the guests and he could not withdraw his careless offer. His lustfulness had further endangered him by causing him to make an offer to folks of low character.

Ahasuerus was “lucky” in that his equally careless offer was made to one of utmost character.

Herod’s poor choices of companionship would cost John his life.

Does God stand a chance against your “inner circle”?