Shadow+of+Herod+essay

The contrast between Jesus and Herod is impressive in a variety of ways. They were moral opposites, cultural opposites, and rich versus poor. Understanding the tyrant that Herod was, with such immense worldly power, brings into focus how juxtaposed Jesus' birth and prophecey was to Herod's established rule.

A) Based on information in the video and the handouts, what is your impression of Herod? Give several examples of what gave you this impression of him. Cite your sources.
 * Remember to include an introduction paragraph.** I dare you to use brainy quote. **Remember your conclusion paragraph. Remember your THESIS STATEMENT, and as always works cited.**

B) Referring to Gen 35: 16- 19, Ruth 1:22, and 1 Sam16: 1-3 What important Bible people were also from or living in Bethlehem? Do you think knowing that Jesus was born in this town, ties him to these people in any way? Explain your thoughts. Would it seem this way to the Jewish people? (i.e. was it important to them where your came from, what your roots were?) Cite your sources.

C) In Luke 2: 8-20, and Matthew 2: 1-8 the shepherds and wise men display their faith. Imagine yourself as either a shepherd or a wise man. Think of how prominent Herod's presence was at this time. Why do you think God brought Jesus into the world at this time of Herod? Does it remind you of any other time where God's way was "shocking" in the world's eyes? Cite your sources.

D) Give an example in your life of how you feel you have acted for God's purpose when it seemed a "weak thing to do" in the world's eyes.

E) Give two examples of how this information about Herod and Jesus' birth have impressed you. Does this change the way you think about Christmas? Does it affect what you think about when you listen to Christmas music? Cite your sources.

F) In your conclusion paragraph, tie all of your paragraphs together by stating the "take home" message of this essay. Remember it should echo your thesis statement.