…Herod was afraid of John [the Baptist], knowing that he was a righteous and holy man, and he kept him safe. And when he heard him, he was very perplexed; but he used to enjoy listening to him.
Mark 6:20 (NASB)

Before you read another word, take note: I am not saying that John tried to be friends with Herod. Not only did John not try to make friends with Herod, John rebuked Herod for sin and called him to repent (Mark 6:18).

Nevertheless, Herod “enjoyed listening to John the Baptist” and even afforded the prophet a measure of protection (v.20). But when Herod feared losing face with the wife he sinfully married, and with his political cronies, Herod folded (v.26). He ordered John’s execution (v.27).

Let Christians beware! Friendship with the world only lasts as long as the world “enjoys” us. When it is unpopular or less than politically expedient, the world will turn on Christians in a heartbeat—regardless of how we may have been favorably treated previously.

When the Church adopts worldly methods, thinking the world will like us, we are fools. When the Church enjoys the favor and even protection of godless politicians, let us not be complacent, taking that favor for granted. The instant we no longer serve a politician’s re-election plans, that same politician will sever our heads from our bodies.

The Church, and every individual Christian must live to serve Jesus Christ and to please Him alone. He is the only one who will never turn on us.

Our marching orders are to preach Christ to the world, not to make friends with the world.