King James Version

What Does Luke 3:12 Mean?

Luke 3:12 in the King James Version says “Then came also publicans to be baptized, and said unto him, Master, what shall we do? — study this verse from Luke chapter 3 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.

Then came also publicans to be baptized, and said unto him, Master, what shall we do?

Luke 3:12 · KJV


Context

10

And the people asked him, saying, What shall we do then?

11

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.

12

Then came also publicans to be baptized, and said unto him, Master, what shall we do?

13

And he said unto them, Exact no more than that which is appointed you.

14

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


Commentary

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 (v12) shows awareness of their specific sins and need for particular guidance. The inclusion of publicans foreshadows Jesus's ministry among sinners (Luke 5:27-32; 15:1-2; 19:1-10) and demonstrates that conviction of sin overcomes social stigma to seek repentance.

KJV Study — Public Domain

Historical & Cultural Context

Jewish tax collectors (publicans) were despised as traitors working for Rome and notorious for extortion and corruption. That they sought baptism despite public shame demonstrates powerful conviction. Their inclusion among the repentant challenged Jewish exclusivism and social hierarchies.

Reflection Questions

  1. What does the publicans' seeking baptism teach about who can receive God's grace?
  2. How does the gospel break down social barriers and unite diverse people?
  3. Why is recognizing one's specific sins important in genuine repentance?

Original Language Analysis

Greek · 12 words
ἦλθον1 of 12

came

G2064

to come or go (in a great variety of applications, literally and figuratively)

δὲ2 of 12

Then

G1161

but, and, etc

καὶ3 of 12

also

G2532

and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words

τελῶναι4 of 12

publicans

G5057

a tax-farmer, i.e., collector of public revenue

βαπτισθῆναι5 of 12

to be baptized

G907

to immerse, submerge; to make whelmed (i.e., fully wet); used only (in the new testament) of ceremonial ablution, especially (technically) of the ordi

καὶ6 of 12

also

G2532

and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words

εἶπον7 of 12

said

G2036

to speak or say (by word or writing)

πρὸς8 of 12

unto

G4314

a preposition of direction; forward to, i.e., toward (with the genitive case, the side of, i.e., pertaining to; with the dative case, by the side of,

αὐτόν9 of 12

him

G846

the reflexive pronoun self, used (alone or in the comparative g1438) of the third person, and (with the proper personal pronoun) of the other persons

Διδάσκαλε10 of 12

Master

G1320

an instructor (genitive case or specially)

τί11 of 12

what

G5101

an interrogative pronoun, who, which or what (in direct or indirect questions)

ποιήσομεν12 of 12

shall we do

G4160

to make or do (in a very wide application, more or less direct)


Study Guide

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of Luke. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

Luke 3:12 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Cross-References

Verses related to Luke 3:12 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

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