The death of John the Baptist illustrates that the Christian journey is not easy, but rather requires trust in God and a focus on eternal glory. However, the desire to be accepted by society has led many Christians to compromise their beliefs. True Christians who hold fast to the word of God may face persecution, even to the point of death. God, despite having the power to stop such persecution, allows it to happen to His followers not out of hatred for humanity, but because He is God and has eternal destiny for each individual.