Herod and Gospels (Mark, Matthew)
List Herod’s major building projects. What impact did they have on Judean society?
What was Herod’s approach to Jewish worship and religious customs?
Describe Herod’s rise to power.What did Herod do to gain and keep the favor of Rome?
Given what we know of Herod’s character, is the slaughter of the children recorded in Matthew 2 historically credible? Explain.
Characterize and Describe Herod’s relationships.
For these questions, students will need to compare with Jesus teachings and the reading from Mark 9 and Matthew 18
6. How does Herod understand power? Compare this to what Jesus says about power, using specific examples.
7. How do Herod and Jesus envision what is considered “justice?”
Mark 9:33-10:45; Matthew 18
8. What were the standards by which someone was measured to be great politically, militarily, economically, religiously? (think in terms of Jesus using a contrast (or opposite) description to what is culturally normative at the time)
9. What was the relative status of slaves and children to the great of the world (at that time)?
10. What does it mean to “welcome” someone?
11. What are the social implications of being possessed by a demon?
12. What are the social implications of giving someone a cup of water?
Implications for our Contemporary world. (Mark 9:33-10:45 AND Matthew 18)
13. Who are the most vile outcasts of modern society? What are the implications of being outcast? What are the implications of giving assistance to the “unredeemable” of modern society?
14. What do these passages reveal about Jesus definition of greatness? (Mark 9 and Matthew 18)
–Grimsrud Chapters 10-11
15. What are the implications of Jesus teachings that the kingdom of God is present and Jesus faithful life as it relates to crime and the community of the New Testament? Explain and support your reasons based on the relevant readings.
Note: Provide an analysis of the text(s) in an argument that leads to your response which can include implications for the various aspects of justice in the United States.
