Why Herod wanted Jesus dead 

08 Sep Why Herod wanted Jesus dead 

Herod the Great dominated Judea for three decades. Backed by Rome, he was able to rule in often ruthless ways.

🎯But his reign was made possible by events that happened in a sea battle near Actium (off the Greek coast) on this day in 31 BC.

🎯This battle was a major turning point in Rome’s history, when the forces directed by Octavian (who later became “Augustus”) confronted forces loyal to Marc Anthony. And Herod governed Judea because of Anthony’s support.

🎯But when Anthony lost the battle at Actium, Herod realized that he was in trouble. He had backed the losing man.

🎯Shrewdly, he met Octavian, convincing him that he should be supported. Octavian confirmed Herod as king, cementing his control over Judea.

🎯This was why Herod was so concerned when he was approached by magi. He tried to manipulate them to accomplish his purposes.

🎯But when they failed to report back to him, Herod lashed out violently, ordering the death of boys under two years old around Bethlehem.