Re:Verse reading–Acts 12:1-19 (day Three)
When he saw that this pleased the Jews, he proceeded to seize Peter also.
The Bible has never shied away from shining a light on the cynicism present in the state’s attempts to cement its hold on power. When David exploited the loyalty of a soldier and a general to cover his tracks, the Bible was there to bring you the story. When Solomon used the institution of marriage to widen his geo-political influence, the scriptures laid it out plainly. When Jesus called out the crafty political maneuverings of Herod Antipas, referring to Herod himself as “that fox”, the Bible’s reporting gave us a window into that tense moment. Now, when Herod Agrippa curries political favor via persecution, the Bible faithfully takes us there. This is what earthly powers do, the Bible tells us. Reserve your deepest loyalties for the Lord.