"If the LORD delights in a person's way, He makes their steps firm; though they stumble, they will not fall, for the LORD upholds them with His hand." (Psalm 37:23,24)

The Grand Narrative: “John the Martyr” (Luke 7:18-23; Mark 6:14-29)

“John the Martyr” (Luke 7:18-23; Mark 6:14-29)

Published 24 Jan. 2026

Scroll down for “Lessons Learned…”

Designed for Personal Bible Study or for Bible Teaching

💥 Lessons Learned – Sins / Failures

  • 1️⃣ Abuse of power leads to moral collapse and injustice (Mk 6:17–18).
  • 2️⃣ Unchecked pride pressures leaders to make destructive decisions (Mk 6:26).
  • 3️⃣ Fear of public opinion can override moral clarity (Mt 14:5).
  • 4️⃣ Personal grudges harden hearts against truth (Mk 6:19).
  • 5️⃣ Worldly celebration can mask spiritual corruption (Mk 6:21–23).

🏆 Lessons Learned – Successes / Spiritual Growth

  • 1️⃣ John remained faithful to God’s truth regardless of personal cost (Mk 6:20).
  • 2️⃣ Honest questions can coexist with genuine faith (Lk 7:19).
  • 3️⃣ Jesus affirmed His identity through fulfilled prophecy (Lk 7:22).
  • 4️⃣ God’s purposes advance even through suffering (Isa 61:1).
  • 5️⃣ Compassion can flow even from deep personal grief (Mt 14:14).

🧭 Lessons Learned – Leadership Dynamics

  • 1️⃣ Godly leaders speak truth even when it is unwelcome (Mk 6:18).
  • 2️⃣ Weak leadership caves under social pressure (Mk 6:26).
  • 3️⃣ Spiritual authority is rooted in obedience, not position (Lk 7:28).
  • 4️⃣ True leaders decrease so God’s purposes increase (Jn 3:30).
  • 5️⃣ Jesus models compassionate leadership amid personal loss (Mt 14:13–14).