For Herod feared John, knowing that he was a just man and holy, and observed him; and when he heard him, he did many things, and heard him gladly.
Herod’s wife wanted John the Baptist executed, but Herod respected John. He called John in from time to time and listened to him. John faithfully reproved Herod, and Herod changed his life in many ways. But Herod was not willing to give up one treasured sin. A sin that is not judged and finished with will dull the conscience. Herod eventually had John beheaded. With no further restraint of conscience, Herod crowned his life of sin by being involved in the death of Jesus. Beware of sin harbored in your life. Confess it to the Lord and forsake it before your conscience gets hardened.