When Herod heard him he would be very disturbed, yet would hear him gladly. - Mark 6:20
How is it possbile for someone to be "gladly disturbed?"
When Herod held John the Baptist in a palace prison he would often engage the prophet in conversation. Though reluctant to hear what the prophet had to say, Herod was eager to repeat the process and the account of Herod's response, though odd, is actually pretty common today.
Having preached in many different types of churches I have heard some interesting comments as I greeted those who were departing. One of my favorites is, "Great sermon, preacher! You really stepped on my toes today!" And it is usually said with a smile! People are often, it seems, gladly disturbed.
Here is what I have deduced from my own experience. Many people, like pain junkies, live for the convicting, piercing work of the Holy Spirit and believe that the aim of a message from God is that they be uncomfortable. The sermon is successful in their eyes if the result is a feeling of guilt. Herein lies the problem. God's aim is not guilt, but rather sorrow that brings repentance.
While feeling "disturbed" might be good, it is not enough. God wants change.
Conscience is an inner voice that warns us somebody is looking. - H. L. Mencken
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