Now there were in the church at Antioch prophets and teachers, Barnabas, Simeon who was called Niger, Lucius of Cyrene, Manaen a lifelong friend of Herod the tetrarch, and Saul.
Acts 13:1 (ESV)
The description “a lifelong friend of Herod the tetrarch” caught my eyes. Who is this Herod the tetrarch? Tetrarch is title for governor of fourth of province (ruler of a quarter). So he is a ruler with big authority during Roman’s rule. But there were many Herods mentioned in the Bible. Which Herod is this one?
In Acts 12, Luke mentioned about King Herod who put Christians in prison (v.1), killed James the Apostle (v.2), and put Peter into prison to be brought into trial (v.3-4). He is also described as man who killed people very easily (including his own soldiers, v.19). He is also described as a tyrant who displeased many people, but due to his power & influence, they had no choice but to swallow the bitter pill (v.20).
Earlier in his book, Luke mentioned Herod as one of those who tried Jesus, mocked and ridiculed him with purple robe (Luke 23:7-12). Not only that, he was mentioned also as one who imprisoned and killed John the Baptist with sword (Luke 3:19-20).
What a powerful enemy and caused grief to God’s people. And when he met his end (Acts 12:23), I think many God’s children must have been rejoicing. Even a secular person, would also rejoice when justice is done, an evil ruthless person received his due retribution. That those who spilled many innocent blood, met their own end in such horrible manner.
However, Luke introduced us to this man,”Manaen”, as a lifelong / childhood friend of such monster. The introduction that Luke wrote about Herod, and the 1 verse he wrote to describe Manaen stands in contrast. What does he want to tell us?
Manaen is mentioned in a group of prophets in Antioch, who fasted & worshiped God, and laid hands in agreement with the Holy Spirit to commission Barnabas & Saul for God’s mission. The close friend of the enemy of the gospel gave his blessings to send forth one of the greatest missionary in the whole world. What an irony.
In a way, Luke shows us the magnificent wisdom of God. He certainly doesn’t judge people partially. He accepts anyone who turns to Him. Even a good friend, a mate, a buddy of the worst villain, He welcomed him to his inner circle, and used him in the sending of the greatest missionary the world ever known. That’s God’s marvellous work. Who are we to say NO to Him?
So are you friend of an enemy of the gospel? Don’t lose heart. God knows, and nothing is impossible for Him. Are you friend of that friend? Dont’ lose heart too. If God could use Manaen, he could also certainly use your friend. God looks at the heart, not even whom a person is associated with. Are you God’s church? Don’t rule people out because of their associations. But embrace all who profess on God’s name & filled with His Spirit. We’re all one in Christ Jesus.