About Luke

Luke presents Jesus as the perfect man and Savior of all people, emphasizing His compassion for the marginalized.

Author: LukeWritten: c. AD 59-63Reading time: ~5 minVerses: 38
Universal SalvationSon of ManHoly SpiritPrayerJoyCompassion

King James Version

Luke 3

38 verses with commentary

John the Baptist Prepares the Way

Now in the fifteenth year of the reign of Tiberius Caesar, Pontius Pilate being governor of Judaea, and Herod being tetrarch of Galilee, and his brother Philip tetrarch of Ituraea and of the region of Trachonitis, and Lysanias the tetrarch of Abilene, tetrarch: or, governor of four provinces

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KJV Study Commentary

Luke's detailed chronology—'in the fifteenth year of the reign of Tiberius Caesar, Pontius Pilate being governor of Judaea'—grounds John's ministry in verifiable history. The listing of multiple rulers (Tiberius, Pilate, Herod, Philip, Lysanias) demonstrates historical precision, allowing readers to date events. This emphasizes that Christian faith rests on historical facts occurring in real time ...
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Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

**III.** (1) **Now in the fifteenth year . . .**—The opening of the main narrative is characteristic of St. Luke’s desire to follow in the footsteps of regular historians, and to name the rulers of any regions that were affected, directly or indirectly, by the events which he narrates. **Tiberius Cæsar.**—He had succeeded Augustus A.D. 14, so that we get the date A.D. 29 for the commencement of th...
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Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary

**2. first ... when Cyrenius, &c.--**a very perplexing verse, inasmuch as Cyrenius, or Quirinus, appears not to have been governor of Syria for about ten years after the birth of Christ, and the "taxing" under his administration was what led to the insurrection mentioned in Ac 5:37. That there was a taxing, however, of the whole Roman Empire under Augustus, is now admitted by all; and candid c...
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Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

Chapter 3 Chapter Outline John the Baptist's ministry.(1-14) John the Baptist testifies concerning Christ.(15-20) The baptism of Christ.(21-22) The genealogy of Christ.(23-38) **Verses 1-14** The scope and design of John's ministry were, to bring the people from their sins, and to their Saviour. He came preaching, not a sect, or party, but a profession; the sign or ceremo...
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Annas and Caiaphas being the high priests, the word of God came unto John the son of Zacharias in the wilderness.

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KJV Study Commentary

<strong>Annas and Caiaphas being the high priests</strong>—Luke's unique dual designation reflects complex first-century politics: technically, <em>archiereus</em> (ἀρχιερεύς, 'high priest') was singular, held by Caiaphas (AD 18-36). However, Annas (high priest AD 6-15) retained the title and wielded enormous power as Caiaphas's father-in-law and patriarch of the high-priestly family. Five of Anna...
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Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(2) **Annas and Caiaphas being the high priests.**—Strictly speaking, there could be only one high priest, and the office was filled at this time by Caiaphas. Annas had been appointed by the Roman Procurator Quirinus, A.D. 7. In A.D. 14, he had to give way to Ishmael, who was appointed by Gratus successor to Quirinus; then followed Eleazar and Simon, and then, in A.D. 25, Joseph Caiaphas, who had ...
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Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary

**3. went ... to his own city--**the city of his extraction, according to the Jewish custom, not of his abode, which was the usual Roman method.

Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

Chapter 3 Chapter Outline John the Baptist's ministry.(1-14) John the Baptist testifies concerning Christ.(15-20) The baptism of Christ.(21-22) The genealogy of Christ.(23-38) **Verses 1-14** The scope and design of John's ministry were, to bring the people from their sins, and to their Saviour. He came preaching, not a sect, or party, but a profession; the sign or ceremo...
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And he came into all the country about Jordan, preaching the baptism of repentance for the remission of sins;

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KJV Study Commentary

John came 'into all the country about Jordan, preaching the baptism of repentance for the remission of sins.' The phrase 'baptism of repentance' (Greek 'baptisma metanoias,' βάπτισμα μετανοίας) identifies John's baptism as symbolic of inner transformation—not a magical ritual but an outward sign of inward change. 'For the remission of sins' (Greek 'eis aphesin hamartiōn,' εἰς ἄφεσιν ἁμαρτιῶν) indi...
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Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(3-9) **And he came into all the country . . .**—The words paint the mission-work of John somewhat more vividly than those of St. Matthew and St. Mark, who represent the people flocking to Him from Jerusalem and Judæa. The two facts together complete the picture. **The baptism of repentance.**—See Notes on Matthew 3:1-11, and Mark 1:4-6. In his description of the Baptism, St. Luke agrees verbally ...
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Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary

**4-5. Not only does Joseph, who was of the royal line, go to Bethlehem (1Sa 16:1), but Mary too--**not from choice surely in her condition, but, probably, for personal enrollment, as herself an heiress.

Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

Chapter 3 Chapter Outline John the Baptist's ministry.(1-14) John the Baptist testifies concerning Christ.(15-20) The baptism of Christ.(21-22) The genealogy of Christ.(23-38) **Verses 1-14** The scope and design of John's ministry were, to bring the people from their sins, and to their Saviour. He came preaching, not a sect, or party, but a profession; the sign or ceremo...
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As it is written in the book of the words of Esaias the prophet, saying, The voice of one crying in the wilderness, Prepare ye the way of the Lord, make his paths straight.

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KJV Study Commentary

John's ministry fulfills Isaiah 40:3-5: 'The voice of one crying in the wilderness, Prepare ye the way of the Lord, make his paths straight.' This prophecy announced the herald who would prepare for God's coming. The 'way of the Lord' requires preparation—removing obstacles, straightening paths. Spiritually, this means repentance removes sin's barriers between humanity and God. John's voice cries ...
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Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(4) **The voice of one crying in the wilderness.**—See Note on Matthew 3:3. (4) From David to Abraham there is a general agreement, the only variation being that, in some MSS., the names of Arni and Admei in St. Luke (Luke 3:33) replace the Aram of St. Matthew. (4) The comparative slight variation here is such as may easily have arisen in the process of transcription from an Aramaic document into ...
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Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary

**4-5. Not only does Joseph, who was of the royal line, go to Bethlehem (1Sa 16:1), but Mary too--**not from choice surely in her condition, but, probably, for personal enrollment, as herself an heiress.

Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

Chapter 3 Chapter Outline John the Baptist's ministry.(1-14) John the Baptist testifies concerning Christ.(15-20) The baptism of Christ.(21-22) The genealogy of Christ.(23-38) **Verses 1-14** The scope and design of John's ministry were, to bring the people from their sins, and to their Saviour. He came preaching, not a sect, or party, but a profession; the sign or ceremo...
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Every valley shall be filled, and every mountain and hill shall be brought low; and the crooked shall be made straight, and the rough ways shall be made smooth;

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KJV Study Commentary

John's quotation from Isaiah 40:4-5 promises that 'every valley shall be filled, and every mountain and hill shall be brought low; and the crooked shall be made straight, and the rough ways shall be made smooth.' This prophetic imagery describes spiritual preparation for Messiah's coming. 'Valleys filled' and 'mountains brought low' symbolize pride humbled and need elevated—God exalting the humble...
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Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(5) **Every valley shall be filled.**—The fuller citation by St. Luke, as compared with the other Gospels, is interesting, and suggests the thought that he was led to see in the manifold aspects of the Baptist’s ministry a fulfilment of this part of the prophecy. The “valley” was filled, when lowly and penitent souls received the assurance of pardon; “mountains and hills” were “brought low” when t...
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Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary

**6. while they were there, the days were accomplished that she should be delivered--**Mary had up to this time been living at the wrong place for Messiah's birth. A little longer stay at Nazareth, and the prophecy would have failed. But lo! with no intention certainly on her part, much less of Cæsar Augustus, to fulfil the prophecy, she is brought from Nazareth to Bethlehem, and at that nick of t...
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Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

Chapter 3 Chapter Outline John the Baptist's ministry.(1-14) John the Baptist testifies concerning Christ.(15-20) The baptism of Christ.(21-22) The genealogy of Christ.(23-38) **Verses 1-14** The scope and design of John's ministry were, to bring the people from their sins, and to their Saviour. He came preaching, not a sect, or party, but a profession; the sign or ceremo...
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And all flesh shall see the salvation of God.

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KJV Study Commentary

The climactic promise 'and all flesh shall see the salvation of God' declares the universal scope of God's redemptive work. The phrase 'all flesh' indicates every ethnic group and social class will have opportunity to witness God's salvation in Christ. This doesn't promise universal salvation but universal revelation and opportunity. The salvation is specifically 'of God'—originating in His initia...
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Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(6) **The salvation of God.**—The same word is used as in Luke 2:30, where see Note.

Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary

**7. first-born--**So Mt 1:25; yet the law, in speaking of the first-born, regardeth not whether any were born after or no, but only that none were born before [Lightfoot]. **wrapt him ... laid him--**The mother herself did so. Had she then none to help her? It would seem so (2Co 8:9). **a manger--**the manger, the bench to which the horses' heads were tied, on which their food could rest [Web...
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Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

Chapter 3 Chapter Outline John the Baptist's ministry.(1-14) John the Baptist testifies concerning Christ.(15-20) The baptism of Christ.(21-22) The genealogy of Christ.(23-38) **Verses 1-14** The scope and design of John's ministry were, to bring the people from their sins, and to their Saviour. He came preaching, not a sect, or party, but a profession; the sign or ceremo...
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Then said he to the multitude that came forth to be baptized of him, O generation of vipers, who hath warned you to flee from the wrath to come?

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KJV Study Commentary

John's harsh address—'O generation of vipers, who hath warned you to flee from the wrath to come?'—demonstrates uncompromising confrontation of spiritual pride. 'Generation of vipers' (serpent's brood) echoes Genesis 3:15, identifying them with Satan's spiritual offspring. The rhetorical question 'who hath warned you?' implies skepticism about their motives—were they truly repentant or merely seek...
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Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(7) **Then said he to the multitude.**—Better, *multitudes. *In St. Matthew the words “Generation” (or *brood*) “of vipers” are related, probably with greater accuracy, as having been addressed specifically to the Pharisees and Sadducees. On the question itself, see Note on Matthew 3:7.

Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary

Lu 2:8-20. Angelic Annunciation to the Shepherds--Their Visit to the Newborn Babe. **8. abiding in the fields--**staying there, probably in huts or tents. **watch ... by night--**or, night watches, taking their turn of watching. From about passover time in April until autumn, the flocks pastured constantly in the open fields, the shepherds lodging there all that time. (From this it seems plain ...
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Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

Chapter 3 Chapter Outline John the Baptist's ministry.(1-14) John the Baptist testifies concerning Christ.(15-20) The baptism of Christ.(21-22) The genealogy of Christ.(23-38) **Verses 1-14** The scope and design of John's ministry were, to bring the people from their sins, and to their Saviour. He came preaching, not a sect, or party, but a profession; the sign or ceremo...
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Bring forth therefore fruits worthy of repentance, and begin not to say within yourselves, We have Abraham to our father: for I say unto you, That God is able of these stones to raise up children unto Abraham. worthy of: or, meet for

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KJV Study Commentary

John challenges those claiming Abrahamic descent: 'Bring forth therefore fruits worthy of repentance, and begin not to say within yourselves, We have Abraham to our father.' True repentance produces fruit—observable life change, not mere religious profession. John demolishes confidence in ethnic privilege ('we have Abraham to our father') by declaring 'God is able of these stones to raise up child...
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Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary

**9. glory of the Lord--**"the brightness or glory which is represented as encompassing all heavenly visions" [Olshausen]. **sore afraid--**So it ever was (Da 10:7, 8; Lu 1:12; Re 1:17). Men have never felt easy with the invisible world laid suddenly open to their gaze. It was never meant to be permanent; a momentary purpose was all it was intended to serve.

Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

Chapter 3 Chapter Outline John the Baptist's ministry.(1-14) John the Baptist testifies concerning Christ.(15-20) The baptism of Christ.(21-22) The genealogy of Christ.(23-38) **Verses 1-14** The scope and design of John's ministry were, to bring the people from their sins, and to their Saviour. He came preaching, not a sect, or party, but a profession; the sign or ceremo...
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And now also the axe is laid unto the root of the trees: every tree therefore which bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down, and cast into the fire.

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KJV Study Commentary

John's warning 'now also the axe is laid unto the root of the trees' emphasizes judgment's immediacy and thoroughness. The present tense 'is laid' indicates current, not future threat—judgment is poised to fall. The 'root' (not just branches) suggests complete destruction, not mere pruning. The agricultural metaphor—'every tree which bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down, and cast into the fi...
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Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary

**10. to all people--**"to the whole people," that is, of Israel; to be by them afterwards opened up to the whole world. (See on Lu 2:14).

Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

Chapter 3 Chapter Outline John the Baptist's ministry.(1-14) John the Baptist testifies concerning Christ.(15-20) The baptism of Christ.(21-22) The genealogy of Christ.(23-38) **Verses 1-14** The scope and design of John's ministry were, to bring the people from their sins, and to their Saviour. He came preaching, not a sect, or party, but a profession; the sign or ceremo...
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And the people asked him, saying, What shall we do then?

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KJV Study Commentary

The multitudes' question 'What shall we do then?' demonstrates that genuine conviction produces desire for practical obedience. Their question follows John's warning of judgment and call to repentance, showing the appropriate response to conviction is seeking how to change. The plural 'we' indicates corporate responsibility and community reformation. This question models the proper sequence: heari...
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Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(10) **And the people asked him . . .**—The questions that follow are peculiar to St. Luke. They are interesting as showing that the work of the Baptist was not that of a mere preacher of repentance. Confession of sins followed naturally on the part of the penitents; that was followed, as naturally, by guidance for the conscience. St. Luke, as a physician of the soul, may well have delighted to pl...
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Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary

**11. unto you is born--**you shepherds, Israel, mankind [Bengel]. Compare Is 9:6, "Unto us a Child is born." It is a birth--"The Word is made flesh" (Joh 1:14). When? "This day." Where? "In the city of David"--in the right line and at the right "spot"; where prophecy bade us look for Him, and faith accordingly expected Him. How dear to us should be these historic moorings of our faith! With the l...
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Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

Chapter 3 Chapter Outline John the Baptist's ministry.(1-14) John the Baptist testifies concerning Christ.(15-20) The baptism of Christ.(21-22) The genealogy of Christ.(23-38) **Verses 1-14** The scope and design of John's ministry were, to bring the people from their sins, and to their Saviour. He came preaching, not a sect, or party, but a profession; the sign or ceremo...
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He answereth and saith unto them, He that hath two coats, let him impart to him that hath none; and he that hath meat, let him do likewise.

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KJV Study Commentary

John's answer—'He that hath two coats, let him impart to him that hath none; and he that hath meat, let him do likewise'—defines repentance in terms of generosity and compassion. The principle addresses excess meeting need: those with abundance sharing with those in want. This isn't socialism or forced redistribution but voluntary compassion flowing from transformed hearts. The specific mention of...
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Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(11) **He that hath two coats.**—The remedy, in this case, was simple and practical. Selfishness was the root of evil. It was to be conquered not by religious emotions only, but by acts of unselfishness. **He that hath meat.**—The Greek noun is plural, and includes all forms of food.

Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary

**12. a sign--**"the sign." **the babe--**"a Babe." **a manger--**"the manger." The sign was to consist, it seems, solely in the overpowering contrast between the things just said of Him and the lowly condition in which they would find Him--Him whose goings forth have been from of old, from everlasting, "ye shall find a Babe"; whom the heaven of heavens cannot contain, "wrapt in swaddling band...
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Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

Chapter 3 Chapter Outline John the Baptist's ministry.(1-14) John the Baptist testifies concerning Christ.(15-20) The baptism of Christ.(21-22) The genealogy of Christ.(23-38) **Verses 1-14** The scope and design of John's ministry were, to bring the people from their sins, and to their Saviour. He came preaching, not a sect, or party, but a profession; the sign or ceremo...
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Then came also publicans to be baptized, and said unto him, Master, what shall we do?

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KJV Study Commentary

That 'publicans also came to be baptized' demonstrates the gospel's reach to despised sinners. Tax collectors, considered traitors collaborating with Rome and known for extortion, seeking baptism shows that no one is beyond God's grace. Their coming 'also' (Greek 'kai') indicates they joined the general multitudes, showing the gospel creates community transcending social barriers. Their question (...
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Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(12) **Then came also publicans.**—The other Gospels do not mention the presence of this class in their narratives of the Baptist’s work, but it is implied in Matthew 21:32.

Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary

**13. suddenly--**as if only waiting till their fellow had done. **with the angel--**who retires not, but is joined by others, come to seal and to celebrate the tidings he has brought. **heavenly host--**or "army," an army celebrating peace! [Bengel] "transferring the occupation of their exalted station to this poor earth, which so seldom resounds with the pure praise of God" [Olshausen]; to l...
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Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

Chapter 3 Chapter Outline John the Baptist's ministry.(1-14) John the Baptist testifies concerning Christ.(15-20) The baptism of Christ.(21-22) The genealogy of Christ.(23-38) **Verses 1-14** The scope and design of John's ministry were, to bring the people from their sins, and to their Saviour. He came preaching, not a sect, or party, but a profession; the sign or ceremo...
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And he said unto them, Exact no more than that which is appointed you.

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KJV Study Commentary

John's instruction to publicans—'Exact no more than that which is appointed you'—addresses their specific temptation to extortion. He doesn't command them to abandon their profession but to practice it honestly. This demonstrates that repentance transforms how we conduct our calling, not necessarily what that calling is (unless inherently sinful). The command acknowledges legitimate taxation ('tha...
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Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(13) **Exact no more.**—Under the “farming” system of taxation adopted by the Roman empire, this was the besetting temptation of all collectors employed in it, and it led naturally to the evil repute which attached, not in Judæa only, to the name of publican. (See Note on Luke 19:2.)

Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary

**14. Glory, &amp;c.--**brief but transporting hymn--not only in articulate human speech, for our benefit, but in tunable measure, in the form of a Hebrew parallelism of two complete clauses, and a third one only amplifying the second, and so without a connecting "and." The "glory to God," which the new-born "Saviour" was to bring, is the first note of this sublime hymn: to this answers, in the se...
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Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

Chapter 3 Chapter Outline John the Baptist's ministry.(1-14) John the Baptist testifies concerning Christ.(15-20) The baptism of Christ.(21-22) The genealogy of Christ.(23-38) **Verses 1-14** The scope and design of John's ministry were, to bring the people from their sins, and to their Saviour. He came preaching, not a sect, or party, but a profession; the sign or ceremo...
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And the soldiers likewise demanded of him, saying, And what shall we do? And he said unto them, Do violence to no man, neither accuse any falsely; and be content with your wages. Do violence: or, Put no man in fear wages: or, allowance

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KJV Study Commentary

That 'soldiers likewise demanded of him, saying, And what shall we do?' shows repentance's universality—even military men recognized their need. The word 'likewise' indicates they joined publicans and common people in seeking guidance. Roman or Herodian soldiers had unique temptations to violence, extortion, and false accusation. John's answer addresses their specific ethical challenges, showing t...
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Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(14) **And the soldiers likewise . . .**—The Greek word has not the definite article, and is a participle. Better, *and soldiers, as they were marching. *The words probably point to the troops of Antipas on their way down the valley of the Jordan to attack Aretas (comp. Notes on 2Corinthians 11:32), the father of the Tetrarch’s divorced wife, who had declared war on account of the wrong thus done ...
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Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary

**15. Let us go, &amp;c.--**lovely simplicity of devoutness and faith this! **They are not taken up with the angels, the glory that invested them, and the lofty strains with which they filled the air. Nor do they say, Let us go and see if this be true--**they have no misgivings. But "Let us go and see this thing which is come to pass, which the Lord hath made known unto us." Does not this confirm ...
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Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

Chapter 3 Chapter Outline John the Baptist's ministry.(1-14) John the Baptist testifies concerning Christ.(15-20) The baptism of Christ.(21-22) The genealogy of Christ.(23-38) **Verses 1-14** The scope and design of John's ministry were, to bring the people from their sins, and to their Saviour. He came preaching, not a sect, or party, but a profession; the sign or ceremo...
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John Announces the Coming One

And as the people were in expectation, and all men mused in their hearts of John, whether he were the Christ, or not; in expectation: or, in suspense mused: or, reasoned, or, debated

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KJV Study Commentary

The people's musing 'in their hearts...whether he were the Christ, or not' demonstrates John's powerful ministry raised messianic expectations. The verb 'mused' (Greek 'dialogizomai') indicates internal reasoning and debate—they were seriously considering whether John might be Messiah. This shows effective prophetic ministry creates spiritual curiosity and expectation. That people wondered if John...
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Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(15) **All men mused in their hearts . . .**—The surmise which St. Luke thus records is not given by St. Matthew or St. Mark, but it agrees with what we find in St. John (John 1:19), and explains the reference to the “mightier” one which in the other Gospels comes in somewhat abruptly. On the answer itself, see Notes on Matthew 3:11-12. St. Luke’s report includes the chief features of those of St....
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Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary

**16. with haste--**Compare Lu 1:39; Mt 28:8 ("did run"); Joh 4:28 ("left her water-pot," as they do their flocks, in a transport). **found Mary, &amp;c.--**"mysteriously guided by the Spirit to the right place through the obscurity of the night" [Olshausen]. **a manger--**"the manger," as before.

Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

**Verses 15-20** John the Baptist disowned being himself the Christ, but confirmed the people in their expectations of the long-promised Messiah. He could only exhort them to repent, and assure them of forgiveness upon repentance; but he could not work repentance in them, nor confer remission on them. Thus highly does it become us to speak of Christ, and thus humbly of ourselves. John can do n...
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John answered, saying unto them all, I indeed baptize you with water; but one mightier than I cometh, the latchet of whose shoes I am not worthy to unloose: he shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost and with fire:

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KJV Study Commentary

John declares: 'I indeed baptize you with water; but one mightier than I cometh...he shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost and with fire.' John contrasts his water baptism (symbolizing repentance) with Messiah's Spirit baptism (effecting transformation). The phrase 'mightier than I' (Greek 'ischyroteros mou,' ἰσχυρότερός μου) emphasizes Christ's superior power and authority—John isn't worthy to lo...
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Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary

**17. made known abroad--**before their return (Lu 2:20), and thus were the first evangelists [Bengel].

Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

**Verses 15-20** John the Baptist disowned being himself the Christ, but confirmed the people in their expectations of the long-promised Messiah. He could only exhort them to repent, and assure them of forgiveness upon repentance; but he could not work repentance in them, nor confer remission on them. Thus highly does it become us to speak of Christ, and thus humbly of ourselves. John can do n...
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Whose fan is in his hand, and he will throughly purge his floor, and will gather the wheat into his garner; but the chaff he will burn with fire unquenchable.

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KJV Study Commentary

The agricultural metaphor—'Whose fan is in his hand, and he will throughly purge his floor'—describes Christ's separating work in judgment. The 'fan' (winnowing fork) tosses grain allowing wind to separate wheat from chaff. That the fan is 'in his hand' indicates Christ's active, present work of separation. 'Throughly purge' emphasizes complete, exhaustive separation—Christ's judgment is thorough,...
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Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(17) **He will throughly purge . . .**—The better MSS. give, *throughly to purge, *and *to gather.*

Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

**Verses 15-20** John the Baptist disowned being himself the Christ, but confirmed the people in their expectations of the long-promised Messiah. He could only exhort them to repent, and assure them of forgiveness upon repentance; but he could not work repentance in them, nor confer remission on them. Thus highly does it become us to speak of Christ, and thus humbly of ourselves. John can do n...
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And many other things in his exhortation preached he unto the people.

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KJV Study Commentary

Luke's summary—'many other things in his exhortation preached he unto the people'—indicates John's ministry extended beyond recorded material. The word 'exhortation' (Greek 'parakaleo̱n') means encouraging, warning, and urging—comprehensive pastoral ministry. That he 'preached...the gospel' (Greek 'euangelizeto') shows Old Testament preaching, like New Testament, centered on good news of salvation...
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Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(18) **Many other things . . .**—This lay, more or less, in the nature of the case; but St. Luke’s is the only record which lays stress on the wider range of the Baptist’s teaching. The sources of information which supplied him with Luke 3:10-14, probably brought to his knowledge much of the same character; but what he records, in common with the other two Evangelists, was, as it were, the text an...
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Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

**Verses 15-20** John the Baptist disowned being himself the Christ, but confirmed the people in their expectations of the long-promised Messiah. He could only exhort them to repent, and assure them of forgiveness upon repentance; but he could not work repentance in them, nor confer remission on them. Thus highly does it become us to speak of Christ, and thus humbly of ourselves. John can do n...
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But Herod the tetrarch, being reproved by him for Herodias his brother Philip's wife, and for all the evils which Herod had done,

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KJV Study Commentary

Herod's response to John's rebuke demonstrates how conviction produces either repentance or hostility. John 'reproved' (Greek 'elegcho̱'—expose, convict) Herod for Herodias (his brother's wife) and 'all the evils which Herod had done.' The comprehensiveness ('all the evils') shows John's fearless confrontation of power. That rebuke specifically addressed Herodias indicates John's willingness to co...
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Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(19-20) **But Herod the tetrarch.**—See Notes on Matthew 14:3-5. St. Luke’s anticipation of the close of the Baptist’s history supplies a curious instance of an arrangement which was obviously deliberate. It seemed to him better to complete the account of the Baptist’s ministry here than to bring in the account of the imprisonment as an episode later on. It coincides in part with St. John’s arrang...
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Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary

**20. glorifying and praising God, &amp;c.--**The latter word, used of the song of the angels (Lu 2:13), and in Lu 19:37, and Lu 24:53, leads us to suppose that theirs was a song too, probably some canticle from the Psalter--meet vehicle for the swelling emotions of their simple hearts at what "they had heard and seen." Lu 2:21. Circumcision of Christ. **Here only recorded, and even here merely ...
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Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

**Verses 15-20** John the Baptist disowned being himself the Christ, but confirmed the people in their expectations of the long-promised Messiah. He could only exhort them to repent, and assure them of forgiveness upon repentance; but he could not work repentance in them, nor confer remission on them. Thus highly does it become us to speak of Christ, and thus humbly of ourselves. John can do n...
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Added yet this above all, that he shut up John in prison.

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KJV Study Commentary

Herod's adding imprisonment to 'all' his other evils demonstrates how rejecting truth leads to greater sin. The phrase 'added yet this above all' shows imprisonment of God's prophet exceeded his other wickedness. This demonstrates the progressive nature of sin—rejecting conviction hardens the heart and produces worse evil. Herod's shutting up John in prison attempted to silence truth rather than s...
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Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

**Verses 15-20** John the Baptist disowned being himself the Christ, but confirmed the people in their expectations of the long-promised Messiah. He could only exhort them to repent, and assure them of forgiveness upon repentance; but he could not work repentance in them, nor confer remission on them. Thus highly does it become us to speak of Christ, and thus humbly of ourselves. John can do n...
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The Baptism of Jesus

Now when all the people were baptized , it came to pass, that Jesus also being baptized, and praying, the heaven was opened,

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KJV Study Commentary

Luke records: 'Now when all the people were baptized, it came to pass, that Jesus also being baptized, and praying, the heaven was opened.' Jesus' baptism occurs after 'all the people were baptized,' emphasizing His identification with humanity. Though sinless, He submitted to John's baptism, fulfilling all righteousness (Matthew 3:15) and modeling humble obedience. Luke uniquely notes Jesus was '...
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Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(21-22) **Now when all the people were baptized.**—See Notes on Matthew 3:13-17. St. Luke’s account is the shortest of the three first Gospels, but it adds here, as afterwards in his report of the Transfiguration, the fact that our Lord was “praying” at the time of the divine attestation to His Sonship. (See *Introduction.*)

Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary

Lu 2:22-40. Purification of the Virgin--Presentation of the Babe in the Temple-Scene There with Simeon and Anna. **22-24. her purification--**Though the most and best copies read "their," it was the mother only who needed purifying from the legal uncleanness of childbearing. "The days" of this purification for a male child were forty in all (Le 12:2, 4), on the expiry of which the mother was requ...
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Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

**Verses 21-22** Christ did not confess sin, as others did, for he had none to confess; but he prayed, as others did, and kept up communion with his Father. Observe, all the three voices from heaven, by which the Father bare witness to the Son, were pronounced while he was praying, or soon after, Lu 9:35; Joh 12:28. The Holy Ghost descended in a bodily shape like a dove upon him, and there cam...
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And the Holy Ghost descended in a bodily shape like a dove upon him, and a voice came from heaven, which said, Thou art my beloved Son; in thee I am well pleased.

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KJV Study Commentary

At Jesus' baptism, 'the Holy Ghost descended in a bodily shape like a dove upon him, and a voice came from heaven, which said, Thou art my beloved Son; in thee I am well pleased.' This Trinitarian manifestation—Father speaking, Spirit descending, Son being baptized—reveals the Trinity at the inauguration of Jesus' ministry. The dove symbolizes purity, peace, and the Spirit's gentle power. The Fath...
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Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(22) **In a bodily shape.**—The words are peculiar to St. Luke, and tend to confirm the traditional symbolism which finds in the dove the emblem of the Holy Spirit. They, at least, fall in naturally with this view; but the other construction, that the Holy Spirit descended, after the manner of a dove, first hovering and then resting, in a bodily form (undefined) of some sort, is, at least, not exc...
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Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary

Lu 2:22-40. Purification of the Virgin--Presentation of the Babe in the Temple-Scene There with Simeon and Anna. **22-24. her purification--**Though the most and best copies read "their," it was the mother only who needed purifying from the legal uncleanness of childbearing. "The days" of this purification for a male child were forty in all (Le 12:2, 4), on the expiry of which the mother was requ...
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Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

**Verses 21-22** Christ did not confess sin, as others did, for he had none to confess; but he prayed, as others did, and kept up communion with his Father. Observe, all the three voices from heaven, by which the Father bare witness to the Son, were pronounced while he was praying, or soon after, Lu 9:35; Joh 12:28. The Holy Ghost descended in a bodily shape like a dove upon him, and there cam...
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The Genealogy of Jesus

And Jesus himself began to be about thirty years of age, being (as was supposed) the son of Joseph, which was the son of Heli,

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KJV Study Commentary

Luke records Jesus' genealogy: 'And Jesus himself began to be about thirty years of age.' The age 'about thirty' marked appropriate age for public ministry—priests began service at age 30 (Numbers 4:3), David became king at 30 (2 Samuel 5:4), and Joseph entered Pharaoh's service at 30 (Genesis 41:46). Jesus' thirty-year preparation—obscurity in Nazareth, learning carpentry, studying Scripture—prec...
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Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(23) **Began to be about thirty years of age.**—At this age the Levites entered on their full work (Numbers 4:23; Numbers 4:30; Numbers 4:35), a kind of probationary period beginning at twenty-five (Numbers 8:24) or even, in later times, when their work was lighter, at twenty (1Chronicles 23:27). No age was fixed for the beginning of the priesthood, nor of the prophet’s work; but it may fairly be ...
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Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary

Lu 2:22-40. Purification of the Virgin--Presentation of the Babe in the Temple-Scene There with Simeon and Anna. **22-24. her purification--**Though the most and best copies read "their," it was the mother only who needed purifying from the legal uncleanness of childbearing. "The days" of this purification for a male child were forty in all (Le 12:2, 4), on the expiry of which the mother was requ...
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Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

**Verses 23-38** Matthew's list of the forefathers of Jesus showed that Christ was the son of Abraham, in whom all the families of the earth are blessed, and heir to the throne of David; but Luke shows that Jesus was the Seed of the woman that should break the serpent's head, and traces the line up to Adam, beginning with Eli, or Heli, the father, not of Joseph, but of Mary. The seeming differ...
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Which was the son of Matthat, which was the son of Levi, which was the son of Melchi, which was the son of Janna, which was the son of Joseph,

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KJV Study Commentary

<strong>Which was the son of Matthat, which was the son of Levi</strong>—Luke's genealogy (Luke 3:23-38) traces Jesus's lineage through Mary's line via Nathan (David's son), while Matthew's traces Joseph's legal line through Solomon. The Greek phrase <em>huios</em> (υἱός, son) appears repeatedly, establishing Jesus's legal humanity and fulfillment of messianic prophecy requiring Davidic descent.<b...
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Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary

**25. just--**upright in his moral character. **devout--**of a religious frame of spirit. **waiting for the consolation of Israel--**a beautiful title of the coming Messiah, here intended. **the Holy Ghost was--**supernaturally. **upon him--**Thus was the Spirit, after a dreary absence of nearly four hundred years, returning to the Church, to quicken expectation, and prepare for coming eve...
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Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

**Verses 23-38** Matthew's list of the forefathers of Jesus showed that Christ was the son of Abraham, in whom all the families of the earth are blessed, and heir to the throne of David; but Luke shows that Jesus was the Seed of the woman that should break the serpent's head, and traces the line up to Adam, beginning with Eli, or Heli, the father, not of Joseph, but of Mary. The seeming differ...
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Which was the son of Mattathias, which was the son of Amos, which was the son of Naum, which was the son of Esli, which was the son of Nagge,

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KJV Study Commentary

<strong>Which was the son of Mattathias, which was the son of Amos</strong>—The repetitive genealogical formula emphasizes continuity and historical authenticity. Each generation represents God's providential preservation of the messianic line through centuries of exile, oppression, and national upheaval. The name Amos (Ἀμώς, <em>Amos</em>) differs from the prophet Amos, illustrating how common th...
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Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary

**26. revealed by the Holy Ghost--**implying, beyond all doubt, the personality of the Spirit. **should see not death till he had seen--**"sweet antithesis!" [Bengel]. How would the one sight gild the gloom of the other! He was, probably, by this time, advanced in years.

Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

**Verses 23-38** Matthew's list of the forefathers of Jesus showed that Christ was the son of Abraham, in whom all the families of the earth are blessed, and heir to the throne of David; but Luke shows that Jesus was the Seed of the woman that should break the serpent's head, and traces the line up to Adam, beginning with Eli, or Heli, the father, not of Joseph, but of Mary. The seeming differ...
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Which was the son of Maath, which was the son of Mattathias, which was the son of Semei, which was the son of Joseph, which was the son of Juda,

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KJV Study Commentary

<strong>Which was the son of Maath, which was the son of Mattathias</strong>—Multiple individuals named Joseph and Mattathias appear in this genealogy, demonstrating common Hebrew naming practices honoring patriarchs and ancestors. The Greek transliterations preserve Hebrew names like Ματταθίου (<em>Mattathiou</em>), maintaining linguistic connection to Israel's covenant identity.<br><br>This segm...
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Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary

27-28. The Spirit guided him to the temple at the very moment when the Virgin was about to present Him to the Lord.

Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

**Verses 23-38** Matthew's list of the forefathers of Jesus showed that Christ was the son of Abraham, in whom all the families of the earth are blessed, and heir to the throne of David; but Luke shows that Jesus was the Seed of the woman that should break the serpent's head, and traces the line up to Adam, beginning with Eli, or Heli, the father, not of Joseph, but of Mary. The seeming differ...
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Which was the son of Joanna, which was the son of Rhesa, which was the son of Zorobabel, which was the son of Salathiel, which was the son of Neri,

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KJV Study Commentary

<strong>Which was the son of Joanna, which was the son of Rhesa, which was the son of Zorobabel</strong>—Here Luke intersects with Old Testament history: Zerubbabel (Ζοροβάβελ, <em>Zorobabel</em>) was the governor who led the first return from Babylonian exile (Ezra 3:2) and rebuilt the temple. Haggai and Zechariah prophesied during his leadership, and God called him His "signet ring" (Haggai 2:23...
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Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary

27-28. The Spirit guided him to the temple at the very moment when the Virgin was about to present Him to the Lord.

Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

**Verses 23-38** Matthew's list of the forefathers of Jesus showed that Christ was the son of Abraham, in whom all the families of the earth are blessed, and heir to the throne of David; but Luke shows that Jesus was the Seed of the woman that should break the serpent's head, and traces the line up to Adam, beginning with Eli, or Heli, the father, not of Joseph, but of Mary. The seeming differ...
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Which was the son of Melchi, which was the son of Addi, which was the son of Cosam, which was the son of Elmodam, which was the son of Er,

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KJV Study Commentary

<strong>Which was the son of Melchi, which was the son of Addi</strong>—Following Zerubbabel, the genealogy continues through lesser-known post-exilic descendants. The name Melchi (Μελχί) derives from Hebrew <em>melekh</em> (מֶלֶךְ, king), ironically pointing toward Jesus's true kingship despite these ancestors' lack of royal power after the exile.<br><br>This section covers the "silent centuries"...
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Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary

**29. Lord--**"Master," a word rarely used in the New Testament, and selected here with peculiar propriety, when the aged saint, feeling that his last object in wishing to live had now been attained, only awaited his Master's word of command to "depart." **now lettest, &amp;c.--**more clearly, "now Thou art releasing Thy servant"; a patient yet reverential mode of expressing a desire to depart.

Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

**Verses 23-38** Matthew's list of the forefathers of Jesus showed that Christ was the son of Abraham, in whom all the families of the earth are blessed, and heir to the throne of David; but Luke shows that Jesus was the Seed of the woman that should break the serpent's head, and traces the line up to Adam, beginning with Eli, or Heli, the father, not of Joseph, but of Mary. The seeming differ...
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Which was the son of Jose, which was the son of Eliezer, which was the son of Jorim, which was the son of Matthat, which was the son of Levi,

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KJV Study Commentary

<strong>Which was the son of Jose, which was the son of Eliezer</strong>—Eliezer (Ἐλιέζερ) means "God is my helper" in Hebrew (אֱלִיעֶזֶר), a theophoric name testifying to covenant faith during Israel's subjugation. Jose is the Greek form of Joseph (Ἰωσήφ), one of several Josephs in the lineage, demonstrating cultural patterns of naming children after patriarchs to maintain covenant identity under...
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Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary

**30. seen thy salvation--**Many saw this child, nay, the full-grown "man, Christ Jesus," who never saw in Him "God's Salvation." This estimate of an object of sight, an unconscious, helpless babe, was pure faith. He "beheld His glory" (Joh 1:14). In another view it was prior faith rewarded by present sight.

Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

**Verses 23-38** Matthew's list of the forefathers of Jesus showed that Christ was the son of Abraham, in whom all the families of the earth are blessed, and heir to the throne of David; but Luke shows that Jesus was the Seed of the woman that should break the serpent's head, and traces the line up to Adam, beginning with Eli, or Heli, the father, not of Joseph, but of Mary. The seeming differ...
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Which was the son of Simeon, which was the son of Juda, which was the son of Joseph, which was the son of Jonan, which was the son of Eliakim,

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KJV Study Commentary

<strong>Which was the son of Simeon, which was the son of Juda</strong>—Simeon (Συμεών, <em>Symeon</em>) bears the name of Jacob's second son, meaning "hearing" (Genesis 29:33), while Juda (Judah, Ἰούδα) recalls the tribe from which Messiah would come (Genesis 49:10). The repetition of tribal names reinforces the family's conscious identification with covenant history and prophetic promises.<br><b...
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Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary

**31-32. all people--**all the peoples, mankind at large. **a light to the Gentiles--**then in thick darkness. **glory of thy people Israel--**already Thine, and now, in the believing portion of it, to be so more gloriously than ever. It will be observed that this "swan-like song, bidding an eternal farewell to this terrestrial life" [Olshausen], takes a more comprehensive view of the kingdom ...
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Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

**Verses 23-38** Matthew's list of the forefathers of Jesus showed that Christ was the son of Abraham, in whom all the families of the earth are blessed, and heir to the throne of David; but Luke shows that Jesus was the Seed of the woman that should break the serpent's head, and traces the line up to Adam, beginning with Eli, or Heli, the father, not of Joseph, but of Mary. The seeming differ...
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Which was the son of Melea, which was the son of Menan, which was the son of Mattatha, which was the son of Nathan, which was the son of David,

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KJV Study Commentary

<strong>Which was the son of Melea, which was the son of Menan, which was the son of Mattatha, which was the son of Nathan, which was the son of David</strong>—Here the genealogy reaches David (Δαυίδ), the critical juncture for messianic claims. However, Luke traces through <strong>Nathan</strong> (Ναθάν), David's son by Bathsheba (2 Samuel 5:14; 1 Chronicles 3:5), not through Solomon who received...
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Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary

**31-32. all people--**all the peoples, mankind at large. **a light to the Gentiles--**then in thick darkness. **glory of thy people Israel--**already Thine, and now, in the believing portion of it, to be so more gloriously than ever. It will be observed that this "swan-like song, bidding an eternal farewell to this terrestrial life" [Olshausen], takes a more comprehensive view of the kingdom ...
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Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

**Verses 23-38** Matthew's list of the forefathers of Jesus showed that Christ was the son of Abraham, in whom all the families of the earth are blessed, and heir to the throne of David; but Luke shows that Jesus was the Seed of the woman that should break the serpent's head, and traces the line up to Adam, beginning with Eli, or Heli, the father, not of Joseph, but of Mary. The seeming differ...
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Which was the son of Jesse, which was the son of Obed, which was the son of Booz, which was the son of Salmon, which was the son of Naasson,

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KJV Study Commentary

<strong>Which was the son of Jesse, which was the son of Obed, which was the son of Booz</strong>—The genealogy now enters Ruth's account: Boaz (Βοόζ, <em>Booz</em>) married Ruth the Moabitess, producing Obed (Ὠβήδ), grandfather of David. This inclusion of a Gentile woman in Messiah's lineage anticipates Luke's universal emphasis—Jesus came as Savior of all nations, not Jews only.<br><br><strong>S...
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Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

**Verses 23-38** Matthew's list of the forefathers of Jesus showed that Christ was the son of Abraham, in whom all the families of the earth are blessed, and heir to the throne of David; but Luke shows that Jesus was the Seed of the woman that should break the serpent's head, and traces the line up to Adam, beginning with Eli, or Heli, the father, not of Joseph, but of Mary. The seeming differ...
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Which was the son of Aminadab, which was the son of Aram, which was the son of Esrom, which was the son of Phares, which was the son of Juda,

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KJV Study Commentary

<strong>Which was the son of Aminadab, which was the son of Aram, which was the son of Esrom, which was the son of Phares, which was the son of Juda</strong>—The genealogy now reaches Judah (Ἰούδα), Jacob's fourth son through whom the messianic promise would flow (Genesis 49:10: "The scepter shall not depart from Judah"). Phares (Perez, Φάρες) was born to Judah through Tamar (Genesis 38), another ...
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Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary

**34-35. set--**appointed. **fall and rising again of many in Israel, and for a sign spoken against--**Perhaps the former of these phrases expresses the two stages of temporary "fall of many in Israel" through unbelief, during our Lord's earthly career, and the subsequent "rising again" of the same persons after the effusion of the Spirit at pentecost threw a new light to them on the whole subje...
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Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

**Verses 23-38** Matthew's list of the forefathers of Jesus showed that Christ was the son of Abraham, in whom all the families of the earth are blessed, and heir to the throne of David; but Luke shows that Jesus was the Seed of the woman that should break the serpent's head, and traces the line up to Adam, beginning with Eli, or Heli, the father, not of Joseph, but of Mary. The seeming differ...
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Which was the son of Jacob, which was the son of Isaac, which was the son of Abraham, which was the son of Thara, which was the son of Nachor,

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KJV Study Commentary

<strong>Which was the son of Jacob, which was the son of Isaac, which was the son of Abraham</strong>—The genealogy reaches the patriarchs: Abraham (Ἀβραάμ) received God's covenant promise that through his seed all nations would be blessed (Genesis 12:3; 22:18). Isaac (Ἰσαάκ) was the child of promise, born miraculously to aged parents, prefiguring Jesus's virgin birth. Jacob (Ἰακώβ) was renamed Is...
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Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary

**34-35. set--**appointed. **fall and rising again of many in Israel, and for a sign spoken against--**Perhaps the former of these phrases expresses the two stages of temporary "fall of many in Israel" through unbelief, during our Lord's earthly career, and the subsequent "rising again" of the same persons after the effusion of the Spirit at pentecost threw a new light to them on the whole subje...
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Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

**Verses 23-38** Matthew's list of the forefathers of Jesus showed that Christ was the son of Abraham, in whom all the families of the earth are blessed, and heir to the throne of David; but Luke shows that Jesus was the Seed of the woman that should break the serpent's head, and traces the line up to Adam, beginning with Eli, or Heli, the father, not of Joseph, but of Mary. The seeming differ...
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Which was the son of Saruch, which was the son of Ragau, which was the son of Phalec, which was the son of Heber, which was the son of Sala,

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KJV Study Commentary

<strong>Which was the son of Saruch, which was the son of Ragau, which was the son of Phalec</strong>—The genealogy now moves beyond Abraham to pre-patriarchal ancestors preserved in Genesis 11:10-26. Phalec (Peleg, Φάλεκ) lived when "the earth was divided" (Genesis 10:25), likely referring to the Babel dispersion when God confused languages and scattered humanity (Genesis 11:1-9).<br><br>These na...
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Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary

**36. Anna--**or, Hannah. **a prophetess--**another evidence that "the last times" in which God was to "pour out His Spirit upon all flesh" were at hand. **of the tribe of Aser--**one of the ten tribes, of whom many were not carried captive, and not a few reunited themselves to Judah after the return from Babylon. The distinction of tribes, though practically destroyed by the captivity, was we...
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Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

**Verses 23-38** Matthew's list of the forefathers of Jesus showed that Christ was the son of Abraham, in whom all the families of the earth are blessed, and heir to the throne of David; but Luke shows that Jesus was the Seed of the woman that should break the serpent's head, and traces the line up to Adam, beginning with Eli, or Heli, the father, not of Joseph, but of Mary. The seeming differ...
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Which was the son of Cainan, which was the son of Arphaxad, which was the son of Sem, which was the son of Noe, which was the son of Lamech,

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KJV Study Commentary

<strong>Which was the son of Cainan, which was the son of Arphaxad, which was the son of Sem, which was the son of Noe</strong>—The genealogy reaches Noah (Νῶε, <em>Noe</em>), the second Adam figure who preserved humanity through judgment. Shem (Σήμ, <em>Sem</em>) was Noah's son through whom God's covenant line continued, receiving special blessing (Genesis 9:26). Arphaxad (Ἀρφαξάδ) represents the...
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Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary

**37. departed not from the temple--**was found there at all stated hours of the day, and even during the night services of the temple watchmen (Psa 134:1, 2), "serving God with fastings and prayer." (See 1Ti 5:5, suggested by this.)

Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

**Verses 23-38** Matthew's list of the forefathers of Jesus showed that Christ was the son of Abraham, in whom all the families of the earth are blessed, and heir to the throne of David; but Luke shows that Jesus was the Seed of the woman that should break the serpent's head, and traces the line up to Adam, beginning with Eli, or Heli, the father, not of Joseph, but of Mary. The seeming differ...
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Which was the son of Mathusala, which was the son of Enoch, which was the son of Jared, which was the son of Maleleel, which was the son of Cainan,

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KJV Study Commentary

<strong>Which was the son of Mathusala, which was the son of Enoch</strong>—Enoch (Ἐνώχ) "walked with God, and he was not, for God took him" (Genesis 5:24)—one of only two people who never experienced death (the other being Elijah). His translation to heaven without dying prefigures the believer's ultimate hope: bodily resurrection and eternal life with God. Hebrews 11:5 cites Enoch as exemplifyin...
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Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary

**38. coming in--**"presenting herself." She had been there already but now is found "standing by," as Simeon's testimony to the blessed Babe died away, ready to take it up "in turn" (as the word rendered "likewise" here means). **to all them, &amp;c.--**the sense is, "to all them in Jerusalem that were looking for redemption"--saying in effect, In that Babe are wrapt up all your expectations. I...
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Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

**Verses 23-38** Matthew's list of the forefathers of Jesus showed that Christ was the son of Abraham, in whom all the families of the earth are blessed, and heir to the throne of David; but Luke shows that Jesus was the Seed of the woman that should break the serpent's head, and traces the line up to Adam, beginning with Eli, or Heli, the father, not of Joseph, but of Mary. The seeming differ...
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Which was the son of Enos, which was the son of Seth, which was the son of Adam, which was the son of God.

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KJV Study Commentary

<strong>Which was the son of Enos, which was the son of Seth, which was the son of Adam, which was the son of God</strong>—The genealogy culminates at Adam (Ἀδάμ), the first human, created directly by God (Genesis 1:26-27; 2:7). The phrase <strong>which was the son of God</strong> (τοῦ θεοῦ, <em>tou theou</em>) is theologically loaded: Adam bore God's image, held unique relationship with the Creat...
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Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(38) **Which was the son of God.**—The whole form of the genealogy leads us to apply these words to Adam. Humanity as such, as the result of an immediate creative act, was the offspring of God (Acts 17:28), and the words of the angel (Luke 1:35) imply that it was because the human nature of our Lord originated in a like creative act, that it was entitled, not less than by its union with the Sonshi...
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Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary

39. Nothing is more difficult than to fix the precise order in which the visit of the Magi, with the flight into and return from Egypt (Mt 2:13-23), are to be taken, in relation to the circumcision and presentation of Christ in the temple, here recorded. It is perhaps best to leave this in the obscurity in which we find it, as the result of two independent, though if we knew all, easily reconcilab...
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Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

**Verses 23-38** Matthew's list of the forefathers of Jesus showed that Christ was the son of Abraham, in whom all the families of the earth are blessed, and heir to the throne of David; but Luke shows that Jesus was the Seed of the woman that should break the serpent's head, and traces the line up to Adam, beginning with Eli, or Heli, the father, not of Joseph, but of Mary. The seeming differ...
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