Two Reactions

“In the church that was at Antioch there were certain prophets and teachers … Manaen who had been brought up with Herod the tetrarch, and Saul.”—Acts 13:1 NKJV

Herod Antipas and Manaen shared similar backgrounds, yet their lives had dramatically different outcomes.

First, we see Herod Agrippa, the grandson of Herod the Great. His power led to a life dominated by pride. Sitting on his throne, the people described him as having “the voice of a god and not of a man!” His actions were so offensive to God that he was struck by an angel and died (Acts 12:22–23). Then Herod Antipas came to power.

In contrast, we read about Manaen, a man who “had been brought up with Herod.” Unlike Herod, Manaen believed in the Gospel. He became so committed that he became a leader of the early church, facing all the risks.

The paths of these two men illustrate the choices each of us must make. We may have similar experiences, see similar things, have similar backgrounds, and have similar points of view. But each of us responds to the Gospel in our own way.

Will we be like Herod Agrippa, who was curious but determined to live life his own way? He got his riches, honor, and power on earth. But in death, he was a miserable, lost soul. Or will we be like Manaen, who followed the call of the Gospel and served God faithfully? He may not have been written about in history books, but he is a star in God’s Kingdom.

The choices are ours to make every day.

Reflection Question: What kind of choices are you making?