Life in the Word 39 The second passage which speaks expressly of the growth of the Word of God is Acts 12:21-24. In this chapter are narrated the last episodes in the life of Herod Antipas. In the first part of the chapter we read how he killed James, the brother of John, with the sword, and finding this course to be popular with the Jews, he apprehended Peter also, and put him in custody, intending after the passover to make this leader of the Apostles the object of a public demonstration, which doubtless would have strengthened Herod still further in the regard of the people. But Peter was delivered from prison by an angel of the Lord who was sent for that purpose. The closing verses of the chapter tell of a disagreement between Herod and the citizens of Tyre and Sidon, some un- described incident having occurred which caused the former to be highly displeased with the latter. But they, having gained the favor of King Herod’s chamberlain, one Blastus, made overtures of peace and sent a delegation to the king. The re- ception of this embassy was made an occasion of much pomp and circumstance. Herod put on his royal apparel, sat upon his throne, received the delegation, “and made an oration unto them.” This oration was received with extravagant demon- strations. “The people gave a shout; saying, It is the voice of a god, and not of a man.” Herod accepted this tribute, and no doubt was highly pleased therewith. But it is a dangerous thing for mortal and sinful man, however high his station, to accept glory which belongs to God alone. For immediately the angel of the Lord, smote him, because he gave not God the glory ; and he was eaten of worms and gave up the ghost. “But the word of God grew and multipled." There is a tremendous lesson here for the many who, in these closing days of the age, are participating in the various movements which, however diverse in appearance, have all the common object of putting man in the place of God, and the word of man in the place of the Word of God. Herod was
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