1. At that time Herod, ruler of Galilee, heard the news about Jesus.
2. He said to his officials, “This is John the Baptizer! He has come back to life. That’s why he has the power to perform these miracles.”
3. Herod had arrested John, tied him up, and put him in prison. Herod did this for Herodias, the wife of his brother Philip.
4. John had been telling Herod, “It’s not right for you to be married to her.”
5. So Herod wanted to kill John. However, he was afraid of the people because they thought John was a prophet.
6. When Herod celebrated his birthday, Herodias’ daughter danced for his guests. Herod was so delighted with her that
7. he swore he would give her anything she wanted.
8. Urged by her mother, she said, “Give me the head of John the Baptizer on a platter.”