Sinful man craves power and will do almost anything to keep it. This truth connects two pivotal Bible stories: the oppression in Egypt and Herod’s massacre in Bethlehem.

Pharaoh’s Decree (Ex. 1)

The Israelites multiplied in Egypt under a new Pharaoh who didn’t know Joseph or remember how God’s people had blessed the land.

Seeing their growing numbers, this ruler feared they would rise against his throne.

His solution? Systematic genocide.

First, he ordered Hebrew midwives to kill newborn boys, but they courageously refused, and God blessed their faithfulness.

Then he commanded all Egyptians to cast Hebrew baby boys into the Nile River.

This decree would lead to Moses being hidden in a basket, only to be rescued by Pharaoh’s daughter.

Herod’s Decree (Matt. 2)

King Herod the Great exemplified power-hungry paranoia.

When Magi arrived seeking the “newborn King of the Jews,” this crazed ruler saw only a threat.

Herod’s murderous resume was already extensive: he killed potential rivals, multiple wives (including his beloved Mariamne), his own sons, and countless family members because he suspected threats to his power.

When faced with baby Jesus, Herod wouldn’t risk missing his target.

He ordered the execution of all boys two and under in Bethlehem and surrounding areas because a paranoid tyrant takes no chances.

What’s going on here?

Both stories reveal the same spiritual reality: Satan attempts to destroy God’s kingdom by eliminating God’s chosen deliverers.

Whether through Pharaoh’s genocide or Herod’s massacre, the devil doesn’t mind the devastation he causes while trying to slay his own Creator.

Yet God’s protection prevails. Moses survived to lead Israel from bondage. Jesus escaped to fulfill His saving mission.

Even in humanity’s darkest power struggles, God’s purposes cannot be thwarted.

Steve Andrews Jr is pastor of St. Matthew Lutheran Church in Lee’s Summit, MO.

#higherthings #lcms #lutheran #theslaughteroftheinnocents

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