Daily Gospel Exegesis Thursday of Week 25 in Ordinary Time - Luke 9: 7-9
Sep 24, 2025
Delve into the intriguing perception of Jesus through the eyes of Herod Antipas. Explore why some believed Jesus was John the Baptist returned and the cultural implications behind this belief. Examine expectations surrounding figures like Elijah and the prophets. Discover Herod's troubled reaction to John’s death and his curiosity about Jesus. The discussion also touches on scholarly interpretations of Jesus' avoidance of Herod and their eventual meeting at the trial. A thought-provoking analysis of identity and reputation unfolds!
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Herod Watches Jesus' Rising Fame
- Herod Antipas ruled Galilee while Jesus' ministry there gained a strong reputation through miracles and healings.
- Luke frames Herod as puzzled and attentive because Jesus operates within Herod's territory and stirs public interest.
Why Some Thought Jesus Was John Returned
- Some listeners thought Jesus was John the Baptist resurrected because John was a powerful, spirit-filled prophet and rumors circulated after his imprisonment and death.
- Luke notes this belief despite Jewish expectations of a general resurrection, which made the notion unusual but plausible to some.
Elijah And The Prophetic Expectation
- Others identified Jesus as Elijah or another ancient prophet because prophecy expected Elijah's return and these figures were associated with miracles.
- Luke highlights the same three options later when Peter recounts public opinion, linking popular speculation to Jesus' identity question.