Apologetics Lesson 8

Herod the Great

• Primary Historical Evidence: More primary evidence exists for Herod the Great than any other ancient figure, primarily from Josephus, who authored two full scrolls on his life.

• Background:

  • Granted the title 'king' in 40 BC and ruled until 4 BC.

  • Client king to Rome during its conquest of Judea (63 BC).

• Accomplishments:

  • Rebuilt the Jerusalem Temple.

  • Established Caesarea, creating a port by sinking ships for a breakwater.

  • Urban renewal of Jerusalem; built a palace, hippodrome, and theaters.

  • Constructed seven fortresses including Masada.

  • Managed to maintain peace with Rome and Jerusalem.

• Challenges:

  • Married ten wives, leading to familial strife and jealousy among sons.

  • Known for violence and killings within his family due to paranoia.

Family Turmoil

• Conflict: Josephus recounts numerous attempts at poisoning and fratricide.

• Personal Actions:

  • Executed three sons suspected of treason and his favorite wife, Mariamne (a Hasmonean princess).

  • Killed several family members, prompting the phrase 'I would rather be Herod’s pig than his son' due to his cruelty.

• Final Days:

  • Died in 4 BC at winter palace; attempted remedies for his ailments without success.

  • Ordered imprisonment and potential execution of Jewish leaders to ensure mourning at his death.

Slaughter of the Innocents

• Threat from Jesus: Herod felt threatened by Jesus's birth, fearing loss of throne.

• Mass Murder: He ordered the killing of all boys under 2 in Bethlehem (Matthew 2).

• Response of Joseph: An angel warned Joseph, leading to their escape to Egypt.

Dead Sea Scrolls

• Discovery: Found in 1947, dating from 250 BC to AD 68; hidden by Essenes.

• Contents: Most do not mention Jesus directly, but provide context on Jewish culture and life.

• Significant Manuscript: 4Q521 relates to the Messianic identity.

• Connection to Jesus: Matthew 11 highlights John the Baptist's inquiry into Jesus's identity, with Jesus referencing messianic actions.

• Implications: Interpretations of Isaiah texts were linked to Jesus's claims of identity and mission, suggesting knowledge of the manuscript's wording.

Conclusion

• Historical Context: The events surrounding Herod's actions reflect the tumultuous political backdrop of his reign.

• Messianic Expectations: Links between Jesus and the expectations set by Jewish texts, such as the Dead Sea Scrolls, reveal deeper connections to his identity.