The Leaven of Herod

Congregation: Swatara

Speaker: Dervin Witmer

Date: August 30, 2026

Audio Runtime: 42:05

Summary: In Mark 8:10–21, Jesus warns His disciples to beware of “the leaven of the Pharisees and of Herod.” Leaven represents an influence that starts small but eventually affects everything. The leaven of Herod reminds us of the danger of trusting political power, compromise, and worldly systems for deliverance. The Herods tried to oppose the work of God, even killing John the Baptist, but they could never stop the kingdom of God. Jesus calls us to remember what He has already done, guard our hearts, and be the righteous leaven and continue His Kingdom which cannot be stopped.

Categories: Sin and Forces of Evil, Character Study