Book of Matthew - Chapter 14 - Verse 4

The verse "For John said unto him, It is not lawful for thee to have her." is found in the gospel of Matthew. In this verse, John the Baptist is addressing King Herod, reprimanding him for marrying his brother's wife, Herodias. John's statement reflects the strict adherence to Jewish law regarding marriage, which prohibited a man from marrying his brother's wife. John's rebuke of Herod's actions demonstrates his commitment to upholding moral and ethical standards, even when confronting those in positions of power. This verse serves as a reminder of the importance of following God's laws and principles, even in the face of societal pressures or personal desires. It highlights the role of prophets like John in speaking truth to power and holding individuals accountable for their actions. Overall, this verse emphasizes the significance of living a righteous and morally upright life, in accordance with God's commandments.

When examining the theological interpretation of the verse "For John said unto him, It is not lawful for thee to have her," we find that this statement is rooted in the Old Testament law which prohibited certain marital relationships. In this particular instance, John is rebuking King Herod for unlawfully taking his brother Philip's wife Herodias as his own. This action goes against the moral standards set forth in God's law, specifically in Leviticus 18:16 and Leviticus 20:21 which forbid a man from marrying his brother's wife. John's words serve as a reminder of the importance of upholding God's commandments and living in accordance with His will. By examining the context and implications of this verse, we gain insight into the significance of maintaining purity and integrity in all relationships, especially in matters of marriage and family. John's boldness in confronting King Herod about this sinful union highlights the courage and commitment required to stand up for righteousness in the face of opposition.