12. The apostles left and started telling everyone to turn to God.
13. They forced out many demons and healed a lot of sick people by putting olive oil on them.
14. Jesus became so well known that Herod the ruler heard about him. Some people thought he was John the Baptist, who had come back to life with the power to perform miracles.
15. Others thought he was Elijah or some other prophet who had lived long ago.
16. But when Herod heard about Jesus, he said, “This must be John! I had his head cut off, and now he has come back to life.”
17-18. Herod had earlier married Herodias, the wife of his brother Philip. But John had told him, “It isn't right for you to take your brother's wife!” So, in order to please Herodias, Herod arrested John and put him in prison.
19. Herodias had a grudge against John and wanted to kill him. But she could not do it
20. because Herod was afraid of John and protected him. He knew that John was a good and holy man. Even though Herod was confused by what John said, he was glad to listen to him. And he often did.
21. Finally, Herodias got her chance when Herod gave a great birthday celebration for himself and invited his officials, his army officers, and the leaders of Galilee.
22. The daughter of Herodias came in and danced for Herod and his guests. She pleased them so much that Herod said, “Ask for anything, and it's yours!
23. I swear that I will give you as much as half of my kingdom, if you want it.”
24. The girl left and asked her mother, “What do you think I should ask for?”Her mother answered, “The head of John the Baptist!”
25. The girl hurried back and told Herod, “Straight away on a dish I want the head of John the Baptist!”