Luke 3

-8 1 3 2 -9 1 0 0 0 0 13 96 -9 2 0 0 2 0 1 RVStyle2 7 StyleNameNormal textFontNameArialUnicode Size Standard StyleNameDefaultFontNameTahomaUnicode Size Standard StyleNameJumpFontNameTahomaStylefsUnderlineColorclBlue HoverColorclMaroonHoverEffects rvheUnderlineUnicode Jump Size Standard StyleNameHeading - Module name SizeDoubleFontNameTahomaColorclMaroonUnicode SizeStandard StyleName"Heading small - Module descriptionFontNameTahomaColorclMaroonUnicode Size Standard StyleNameHeading - LinkFontNameTahomaColorclNavy HoverColorclPurpleUnicode Jump Size Standard StyleNameDefaultFontNameTahomaStylefsUnderlineColorclBlueUnicode Jump Size Standard StyleNameDefaultFontNameTahomaColorclBlue HoverColorclMaroonNextStyleNoUnicode Jump Size -9 2 0 0 2 0 2 RVStyle2 jBiDiModervbdLeftToRightTabs StyleNameCentered Alignment rvaCenterTabsStandardTabs-9 2 0 0 2 0 4 RVStyle2 -9 0 0 0 0 0 7 1 8 2 8 0 0 CHAPTER III) Outline of Chapter 3) Theme: The Work Thou Gavest Him to Do) 3:1 20 The Ministry of John the Baptist) 3:21, 22 The Baptism of Jesus) 3:23 38 The Genealogy of Jesus) ) 3:1 20 The Ministry of John the Baptist) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.3.1-40.3.12|AUTODETECT|” Cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.3.1-40.3.12|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 3:1 12) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.14.1-40.14.4|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.14.1-40.14.4|AUTODETECT|” 14:1 4) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.1.1-41.1.8|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.1.1-41.1.8|AUTODETECT|” Mark 1:1 8) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.6.0|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.6.0|AUTODETECT|” 6) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.1.19-43.1.28|AUTODETECT|” ; 14 18; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.1.19-43.1.28|AUTODETECT|” John 1:19 28) 1 20 2 8 0 0 3 1 In the fifteenth year of the reign of Tiberius Caesar when Pontius Pilate was governor of Judea, Herod tetrarch of Galilee, his brother Philip tetrarch of the region of Iturea and Trachonitis, and Lysanius tetrarch of Abilene 2 and during the high-priesthood of Annas and Caiaphas, the word of God came to Zechariah s son John, (while he was) in the wilderness. 3 He went into the whole Jordan neighborhood, proclaiming a baptism of conversion with a view to the forgiveness of sins; 4 as it is written in the book of the words of Isaiah the prophet:) A voice of one crying in the wilderness:) Make ready the way of the Lord,) Make straight his paths.) 5 Every valley shall be filled up,) And every mountain and hill leveled down;) The crooked roads shall become straight,) And the rough ways smooth.) 6 And all flesh shall see the salvation of God.) 7 He [John] therefore was saying��161�� to the crowds coming out to be baptized by him, You offspring of vipers! Who warned you to escape the approaching (outpouring of) wrath? 8 Bear fruit therefore in keeping with conversion; and do not begin to say to yourselves, We have Abraham as our father, for I tell you that God is able to raise up children for Abraham out of these stones here. 9 And already the ax is laid at the root of the trees; every tree therefore that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire. ) 10 So the crowds kept asking him, What then shall we do? ) 11 He answered, Let the one who has two shirts��162�� share with the one who has none, and let the one who has food do likewise. ) 12 Tax-collectors too came to be baptized. They said to him, Teacher, what shall we do? 13 He told them, Don t exact more than required. ) 14 Soldiers too were asking, And we, what shall we do? He replied, Don t extort money by violence,��163�� don t accuse people falsely, and be content with your pay. ) 15 Now while the people were on tiptoe of expectation, and all were wondering in their hearts about John, whether he might be the Christ, 16 he expressly answered them all, I on my part baptize you with water, but he who is mightier than I is coming whose sandal straps I am not fit to untie he will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and with fire. 17 His winnowing shovel is in his hand, and he will thoroughly clear his threshing floor. He will gather his grain into the granary, but the chaff he will consume with unquenchable fire. ) 18 Thus, continually exhorting with respect to many and different matters, John was preaching the gospel to the people.) 19 But when Herod the tetrarch was repeatedly rebuked by John because of Herodias, Herod s brother s wife, and because of all the (other) evil deeds he had committed, 20 he added this to them all: he locked John up in prison.) ) By the grace of God resting upon him, Jesus, according to his human nature, was being gradually prepared for the task which the Father had assigned to him. His divine nature did not need any preparation, was not even able to experience it, but the human nature was in need of it.

This period of preparation (see especially 2:40, 52) was now about to end.) Accordingly between chapters 1 and 2, on the one hand, and chapter 3, on the other, there is a marked division. The boy of 12 (2:42) becomes the man of approximately 30 (3:23). The eighteen intervening years are passed by in silence.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.1.29|AUTODETECT|” But before Luke even narrates the events by means of which Jesus public ministry was inaugurated he says something about the forerunner, John the Baptist, for the latter was about to do two things: first, he was to serve as God s instrument in preparing the hearts of the people for the reception of their Messiah (3:1 14); secondly, he must introduce the Messiah to the people 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.1.29|AUTODETECT|” John 1:29) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ) and baptize him (3:21, 22).) 1 9 2 8 0 0 As Luke does so often see 1:5 f., 2:1 f., and Introduction, point V B so here again he fits the history of redemption into the framework of the contemporary political situation. By means of six chronological items he indicates the time when John began his ministry.) One is prone to think that such a broad array of historical data, each a check on the other five, would leave no doubt in anyone s mind as to the exact year when the Baptist started his work. Nevertheless, it is precisely at this point that even today scholars reach diverging conclusions. Bypassing minor theories there are several the two main theories as to the date that marks the beginning of the forerunner s public introduction to Israel are these:) a. in a.d. 26. This is the traditional view; and) b. in a.d. 28 29. This theory, though not new by any means, has been refurbished in recent years and today enjoys a measure of popularity.

In the course of the discussion the two theories will be designated as (a) and (b). At the very outset it should be made clear that the data supplied by Luke are insufficient to prove either theory with finality.��164�� Great scholars have reached opposite verdicts. At the most one can reach probability, not absolute certainty.) In verse 1 Luke mentions various political regions into which the country of the Jews had been divided and which existed when John began his public ministry. For their location see the map on p. 196.) 1, 2. In the fifteenth year of the reign of Tiberius Caesar when Pontius Pilate was governor of Judea, Herod tetrarch of Galilee, his brother Philip tetrarch of the region of Iturea and Trachonitis, and Lysanius tetrarch of Abilene and during the highpriesthood of Annas and Caiaphas, the word of God came to Zechariah s son John, (while he was) in the wilderness.) The six chronological items mentioned by Luke will be discussed in the order 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 1. This sequence will be followed because, as this author sees it, item 6 sheds light on the proper understanding of item 1.) 2.

The word of God came to Zechariah s son John when Pontius Pilate was governor of Judea. See the chart on p. 136. What happened was this: Herod the Great had made a will which he revised several times. At his death (on or before April 4 of the year 4 b.c.) the Roman government allowed the final revision to be honored. Accordingly Archelaus, a son of Herod the Great by Malthace, was trade ethnarch of Judea, Samaria, and Idumea. See chart of Herod s Family Tree on p. 189 of N.T.C. on Matthew.

But because Archelaus was a cruel ruler see N.T.C. on Matthew, pp. 187, 188 for details he was deposed in a.d. 6. The emperor then appointed a governor to replace Archelaus, and made the triple region, which was now called the province of Judea, a division of the prefecture of Syria, so that to a certain extent the governor was subordinate to Syria s legate. However, in Judea itself the governor exercised unrestricted authority.) Governors followed each other in rapid succession. That was true also in the province of Judea. Pontius Pilate was the fifth of these governors. In that capacity he ruled from a.d. 26 to 36.

It is clear that both of the theories mentioned above i.e., both (a) and (b) can live with these dates.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.12.0|AUTODETECT|” 3. Herod tetrarch of Galilee. This man, usually known as Herod Antipas, was a full brother of Archelaus. The same event that made Archelaus ethnarch made Herod Antipas tetrarch, namely, of Galilee (and Perea). He continued in that position from 4 b.c. to a.d. 39, when he was banished to Lyons in Gaul. For the events that led to his banishment see N.T.C. on Matthew, p. 590. Sometime later the domain that had been taken away from him was added to the kingdom of Herod Agrippa I, who is the Herod referred to in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.12.0|AUTODETECT|” Acts 12) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 .) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.2.1-40.2.19|AUTODETECT|” Herod Antipas is the Herod we meet in the Gospels 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.2.1-40.2.19|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 2:1 19) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.1.5|AUTODETECT|” and ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.1.5|AUTODETECT|” Luke 1:5) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 , where the reference is to his father, Herod I or Herod the Great). It is clear that the tetrarch s long reign leaves ample room for theory (a) and theory (b).) 1 3 2 8 0 0 4. His brother Philip tetrarch of the region of Iturea and Trachonitis. Philip was a son of Herod I by Cleopatra of Jerusalem (not to be confused with the Egyptian Cleopatra). Our information about him we owe largely to Josephus, Antiquities XVIII.106 108. It was he who enlarged and) ) ) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.16.13|AUTODETECT|” beautified the town of Paneas, located near the Jordan s source, and named it Caesarea. To distinguish that place from the Caesarea on the Mediterranean it began to be called Caesarea Philippi 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.16.13|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 16:13) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). He also enlarged Bethsaida, that is, the Bethsaida located near the northern junction of the Lake of Galilee and the Jordan, and called it Bethsaida Julias, in honor of Julia, the daughter of Emperor Augustus, mentioned above (see p. 138). According to Josephus, this Philip was a man of excellent character, one who bestowed much personal care upon his people. He ruled from 4 b.c. until his death, a.d. 34. As far as his reign is concerned either theory (a) or (b) could again be right.) 1 1 2 8 0 0 5. And Lysanius tetrarch of Abilene. Luke s statement no longer stands alone, as it did for many years. It has been confirmed in an inscription on a rock west of Damascus.��165�� This inscription states that Lysanius was indeed governor of this region, and at a time which again presents no problem for either theory (a) or (b).) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.3.2|AUTODETECT|” 6. And during the highpriesthood of Annas and Caiaphas. Annas (or Ananus as Josephus calls him) had been appointed highpriest by Quirinius in the year a.d. 6, and was deposed by Valerius Gratus, about a.d. 15. But though deposed, he remained for a long time the ruling spirit of the Sanhedrin. Five sons and a grandson followed him in the highpriesthood; also a son-in-law, the very one mentioned by Luke, namely, Caiaphas. The latter held the highpriestly office from a.d. 18 to 36. The New Testament refers to Caiaphas in the following passages 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.3.2|AUTODETECT|” Luke 3:2) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.26.3|AUTODETECT|” ): ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.26.3|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 26:3) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.26.57|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.26.57|AUTODETECT|” 57) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.11.49|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.11.49|AUTODETECT|” John 11:49) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.18.13|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.18.13|AUTODETECT|” 18:13) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.18.14|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.18.14|AUTODETECT|” 14) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.18.24|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.18.24|AUTODETECT|” 24) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.18.28|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.18.28|AUTODETECT|” 28) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.4.6|AUTODETECT|” ; and ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.4.6|AUTODETECT|” Acts 4:6) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.18.13|AUTODETECT|” ; to Annas, also in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.18.13|AUTODETECT|” John 18:13) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.18.24|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.18.24|AUTODETECT|” 24) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.4.6|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.4.6|AUTODETECT|” Acts 4:6) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 .) 1 5 2 8 0 0 It may seem strange that Luke assigns the beginning of the Baptist s ministry to the highpriesthood not only of Caiaphas but of Annas and Caiaphas. Annas, after all, was deposed from that office in a.d. 15, long before John s ministry began, whether according to theory (a) or (b). That Luke assigns the beginning of John s ministry to the highpriesthood of Caiaphas (a.d. 18 36) we can understand, but why to that of Annas?) Nevertheless, Luke is correct. He is thinking of the actual situation, not the merely formal one. The actual situation was that both Annas and Caiaphas were in the driver s seat during the entire period of John s ministry and during the entire length of Christ s ministry; Annas as well as perhaps even more than Caiaphas. For more on these two men see N.T.C. on John, Vol.

II, pp. 162 165, 385 388, 394 401. So here again either theory (a) or (b) may be correct.) 1. We now turn to Luke s first chronological item, namely, In the fifteenth year of the reign of Tiberius Caesar & the word of God came to Zechariah s son John.& ) There are those who argue that since John began his ministry in the fifteenth year of Tiberius Caesar, and since Tiberius began to reign at the death of Emperor Augustus, Aug. 19 of the year a.d. 14, John s ministry must have started in the year a.d. 28 or perhaps even 29. For a defense of that theory (b) and our counter-arguments see the footnote.��166��) But the traditional view, theory (a), has by no means been overthrown. It rests on grounds such as the following:) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.3.1|AUTODETECT|” First of all, In ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.3.1|AUTODETECT|” Luke 3:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.3.2|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.3.2|AUTODETECT|” 2) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 the analogy with the Annas-Caiaphas reference confirms the conclusion that Luke is thinking of the actual reign of Tiberius, which began with the latter s coregency, and that he is not thinking of Tiberius sole rulership which began at the time of the death of Augustus. ��167�� A couple years before his formal assumption of sole emperorship the Roman Senate had conferred on Tiberius the authority to administer all the Roman provinces conjointly with Augustus.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.2.20|AUTODETECT|” Secondly, according to Josephus, Antiquities XV.380, Herod the Great began to build Jerusalem s temple in the eighteenth year of his reign (which began in 37 b.c.), hence in the year 19 b.c. According to the testimony of the Jews, as recorded in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.2.20|AUTODETECT|” John 2:20) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 , when Jesus attended the first Passover of his public ministry that temple had been in the process of building for forty-six years. This would make the date for that Passover a.d. 27. Therefore the beginning of Christ s ministry could well have been the latter part of a.d. 26, and the Baptist s first public appearance could have occurred a half year earlier.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.2.0|AUTODETECT|” Thirdly, it is agreed by several scholars that the events surrounding Christ s birth as described in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.2.0|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 2) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.3.23|AUTODETECT|” indicate that the birth itself occurred shortly before the death of Herod the Great. That king died on or before April 4 of the year 4 b.c. Therefore acceptance of late 5 b.c. as the date of Christ s birth is not unreasonable. If with this result we compare ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.3.23|AUTODETECT|” Luke 3:23) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.1.36|AUTODETECT|” Now Jesus himself was about thirty years old when he began his ministry, we again arrive at the close of a.d. 26 as the date of the beginning of that ministry, and at a date a half year earlier 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.1.36|AUTODETECT|” Luke 1:36) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.3.23|AUTODETECT|” ) for the beginning of John s ministry. A. B. Bruce, though not taking a definite stand in this debate, points out that the date a.d. 26 rather than a.d. 28/29 agrees with ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.3.23|AUTODETECT|” Luke 3:23) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 . ��168�� It is true that Luke says, when he was about thirty years Jesus began to teach, but whether about thirty years can be stretched far enough to make it equal to thirty-two is open to question.) 1 4 2 8 0 0 Though there are various ways in which the force of these arguments can be whittled down, and, as stated earlier, absolute certainty is impossible, I believe it has been shown that up to the present time the traditional view that is, theory (a) has not been annihilated.) Before leaving verses 1 and 2 there are two additional matters that require attention. First, the matter of political titles. Literally verse 1 reads, in part, Pontius Pilate being governor of Judea, and Herod being tetrarch of Galilee, his brother Philip being tetrarch & and Lysanius being tetrarch, etc. The participle being [or: ruling as] tetrarch occurs three times in this verse. On p. 195 mention was made of the fact that at the death of the king (Herod the Great) Archelaus was made ethnarch. So the question arises, What is the difference between these three titles? ) The men so designated were rulers of semi-independent regions within the empire of Rome.

In descending order of prestige the terms are king, ethnarch, tetrarch. If a ruler (a) was in control of a territory of considerable size and importance, (b) was able to maintain peace and order in his domain, and (c) managed to collect large revenues for Rome s coffers, he was given the title king. If this did not happen to be the case, he had to be satisfied with the title ethnarch or even tetrarch (originally, ruler of a fourth part), a kind of petty prince. The terms were, however, flexible: any ruler of low rank might be called tetrarch ; an ethnarch might be merely a chief ; and even in the New Testament a tetrarch is sometimes loosely called a king. ) Nevertheless, how eager was the wife of a certain tetrarch to have her husband declared a king ! See N.T.C. on Matthew, p. 590.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.15.1|AUTODETECT|” The second matter is the lofty, almost majestic, manner in which John, Messiah s herald, is now introduced. In phraseology that occurs nowhere else in the New Testament, but in one form or another frequently in the Old, we are told that the word utterance or message of God came to Zechariah s son John, (while he was) in the wilderness. It came to him just as long ago it had come to Abraham 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.15.1|AUTODETECT|” Gen. 15:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=9.15.10|AUTODETECT|” ), Samuel 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=9.15.10|AUTODETECT|” I Sam. 15:10) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=10.7.4|AUTODETECT|” ), Nathan 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=10.7.4|AUTODETECT|” II Sam. 7:4) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=11.17.2|AUTODETECT|” ), Elijah 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=11.17.2|AUTODETECT|” I Kings 17:2) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=11.17.8|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=11.17.8|AUTODETECT|” 8) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=11.18.1|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=11.18.1|AUTODETECT|” 18:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=24.1.1|AUTODETECT|” ), and, to mention only one more, the closest parallel of all, Jeremiah 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=24.1.1|AUTODETECT|” Jer. 1:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=24.1.2|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=24.1.2|AUTODETECT|” 2) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). Did Luke perhaps deliberately select this Old Testament phraseology in order to impress upon Theophilus and others the fact that John was as genuine a prophet as those addressed by God during the old dispensation?) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.1.80|AUTODETECT|” It was while John was in the wilderness 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.1.80|AUTODETECT|” Luke 1:80) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.3.5|AUTODETECT|” left him) that he received the divine message ordering him (a) to awaken the people to the need of basic conversion, and (b) to introduce to them the Messiah (see verses 3, 8, 16). The term wilderness indicates the rolling badlands between the hill country of Judea to the west, and the Dead Sea and lower Jordan to the east, stretching northward to about the point where the Jabbok flows into the Jordan. It is indeed a desolation, a vast undulating expanse of barren chalky soil covered with pebbles, broken stones and rocks. Here and there a bit of brushwood appears, with snakes crawling underneath (see verse 7). It is clear, however, from verse 3 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.3.5|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 3:5) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.1.28|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.1.28|AUTODETECT|” John 1:28) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ) that the terrain of John s activity extended even to the east bank of the Jordan.) 1 2 2 8 0 0 3. He went into the whole Jordan neighborhood, proclaiming a baptism of conversion with a view to the forgiveness of sins. It is clear from the original that the terrain of John s activity included the entire region around i.e., on both banks of this part of the Jordan, the whole Jordan neighborhood. ) Conversion indicates nothing less than a radical change of mind and heart that leads to a complete turnabout of life. It includes both (a) repentance, that is, genuine sorrow for sin and an earnest resolution to break with the evil past, and (b) fruit-bearing (see verses 8, 9).) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=26.36.25|AUTODETECT|” A man must already have experienced genuine basic conversion before he can be baptized. That is clearly implied in verses 7 14: there must be genuine sorrow for sin and a true determination to do away with the evil of the past before John is willing to baptize anyone. But it is also true that by means of baptism true conversion is powerfully stimulated. How could reflection on the meaning of the cleansing water of baptism, symbolizing and sealing the cleansing grace and power of God, his forgiving love, have any different effect? For the person who in that spirit receives baptism the outward sign and seal applied to the body, and the inward grace applied to heart and life, go together. I will sprinkle clean water upon you, and you shall be clean & a new heart also will I give you, and a new spirit will I put within you 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=26.36.25|AUTODETECT|” Ezek. 36:25) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=26.36.26|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=26.36.26|AUTODETECT|” 26) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.6.4|AUTODETECT|” ); buried with him through baptism & raised & so we might walk in newness of life 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.6.4|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 6:4) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 2 2 8 0 0 Now baptism as such was not something altogether new. Historically proselyte baptism, the administration of this rite to those who from the Gentile world had been converted to the Jewish religion, preceded baptism as administered by John. The Jews regarded all Gentiles as being unclean, and therefore subjected them to baptism when they were won over to Judaism. What was new and startling for the Baptist s audience was that a basic transformation and its sign and seal were required even of the children of Abraham! They too were filthy! They too must acknowledge this openly!) Note that according to verse 3 John went into the whole Jordan neighborhood proclaiming literally heralding the need, even for the Jews, of a baptism of conversion with a view to the forgiveness of sins.

For proclaiming one may substitute preaching, that is, just so it be understood that genuine preaching or heralding is lively, not dry; timely, not stale. It is the earnest proclamation of news initiated by God. It is not the abstract speculation of views excogitated by man.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=3.16.8|AUTODETECT|” And what can be more encouraging than the proclamation of conversion with a view to the forgiveness of sins ? Such forgiveness means that these sins are sent away to a place from which they can never be recovered. God-fearing people in John s audience knew about the sin-laden goat that was sent into the wilderness never to return 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=3.16.8|AUTODETECT|” Lev. 16:8) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=3.16.20-3.16.22|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=3.16.20-3.16.22|AUTODETECT|” 20 22) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.103.12|AUTODETECT|” ). They knew the promise of ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.103.12|AUTODETECT|” Ps. 103:12) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=33.7.19|AUTODETECT|” , As far as the east is from the west, so far has he removed our transgressions from us, and they must have experienced the truth of ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=33.7.19|AUTODETECT|” Mic. 7:19) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 , Thou wilt cast all their sins into the depths of the sea. ) 1 10 2 8 0 0 In harmony with that which had already been hinted in verse 2 , as explained previously, Luke now clearly indicates that in John prophecy was being fulfilled.) 4 6. as it is written in the book of the words of Isaiah the prophet:) A voice of one crying in the wilderness:) Make ready the way of the Lord,) Make straight his paths.) Every valley shall be filled up,) And every mountain and hill leveled down;) The crooked roads shall become straight,) And the rough ways smooth.) And all flesh shall see the salvation of God.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.40.3|AUTODETECT|” The reference is, of course, to ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.40.3|AUTODETECT|” Isa. 40:3) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.40.3|AUTODETECT|” f. Matthew (3:3) and Mark (1:3) quote only ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.40.3|AUTODETECT|” Isa. 40:3) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 . Luke also quotes verse 4 and to a certain extent even reproduces part of verse 5. The last five lines, therefore, of Luke s quotation hence, the lines beginning with every valley and ending with the salvation of God are in the New Testament found only in Luke.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.40.5|AUTODETECT|” In addition to a minor difference (between the Greek text and the Hebrew original) in the beginning, for which see the footnote,��169�� and a few other small differences farther on, the main variation concerns the close of the quotation. Here the Hebrew text 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.40.5|AUTODETECT|” Isa. 40:5) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ) has:) 1 4 2 8 0 0 and the glory of the Lord shall be revealed, and all flesh shall see it together; for the mouth of the Lord has spoken it.) The Septuagint has:) and the glory of the Lord shall he seen [or: revealed], and all flesh shall see the salvation of God; for the Lord has spoken.) Luke (3:6) omits and the glory of the Lord shall be revealed, but has retained And all flesh shall see the salvation of God. ) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.12.23|AUTODETECT|” If it be borne in mind that God s, hence also Christ s, glory is revealed most marvelously in the work of salvation 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.12.23|AUTODETECT|” John 12:23) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.12.31|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.12.31|AUTODETECT|” 31) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.12.32|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.12.32|AUTODETECT|” 32) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.17.4|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.17.4|AUTODETECT|” 17:4) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.17.5|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.17.5|AUTODETECT|” 5) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ), it will be clear that there is no essential difference between these three representations.) 7 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.40.3-23.40.5|AUTODETECT|” Isa. 40:3 5) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 symbolically pictures the approach of Jehovah for the purpose of leading the procession of Jews who will be returning joyfully to their homeland after long years of captivity. In the Syrian desert, between Babylonia and Palestine, the way must be prepared for the Lord s coming. So, a herald cries out to the people,) 1 2 2 8 0 0 In the wilderness make ready the way of the Lord,) Make straight in the desert a highway for our God.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.1.23|AUTODETECT|” This figure of the herald is in the Gospels applied to John, as Christ s herald. The Baptist, by saying, I am the voice & shows that he agrees with this interpretation 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.1.23|AUTODETECT|” John 1:23) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.11.10|AUTODETECT|” ). So does Jesus himself 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.11.10|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 11:10) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). This shows that the deliverance granted to the Jews when, in the latter part of the sixth century b.c. and afterward, they returned to their own country was but a type of that far more glorious liberation in store for all who accept Christ as their Savior and Lord. In other words, Isaiah s prophecy regarding the voice that cried out lacked total fulfilment until both Messiah s forerunner and also the Lord himself had arrived on the scene.��170��) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.40.3|AUTODETECT|” The appropriate application of ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.40.3|AUTODETECT|” Isa. 40:3) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.1.3|AUTODETECT|” to John the Baptist is evident from the following: (a) John was preaching in the wilderness 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.1.3|AUTODETECT|” Mark 1:3) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.3.4|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.3.4|AUTODETECT|” Luke 3:4) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.1.76|AUTODETECT|” ); and (b) the task assigned to him from the days of his infancy 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.1.76|AUTODETECT|” Luke 1:76) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.1.77|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.1.77|AUTODETECT|” 77) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.1.17|AUTODETECT|” ), yes even earlier 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.1.17|AUTODETECT|” Luke 1:17) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=39.3.1|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=39.3.1|AUTODETECT|” Mal. 3:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.3.22-43.3.30|AUTODETECT|” ), was exactly this, namely, to be Messiah s herald or way-preparer. He was to be the Lord s voice to the people, all of that but not more than that 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.3.22-43.3.30|AUTODETECT|” John 3:22 30) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.3.9|AUTODETECT|” ). As such he must not only announce Christ s approach and presence but also urge the people to prepare the way of the Lord, that is, by God s grace and power to effect a complete change of mind and heart. This implies that they must make straight his paths, meaning that they must provide the Lord with a ready access into their hearts and lives. They must make straight whatever was crooked, not in line with God s holy will. They must clear away all the obstacles which they had thrown into his path; such obstructions as self-righteousness and smug complacency 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.3.9|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 3:9) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.3.13|AUTODETECT|” ), greed, cruelty, slander, etc. 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.3.13|AUTODETECT|” Luke 3:13) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.3.14|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.3.14|AUTODETECT|” 14) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 2 2 8 0 0 It is evident that both in Isaiah s and in John s preaching as recorded by the Gospel writers the wilderness through which a path must be made ready for the Lord is in the final analysis the people s heart, by nature inclined to all evil. Though the literal meaning is not absent, it is subsumed into the figurative. The underlying idea is indeed the actual wilderness. But the very sight of this dreary region must have impressed those who listened to John s preaching with the fact that they themselves were spiritually wandering in a desert land where all the streams are dry. ) It is always difficult to determine exactly to what extent Isaiah s language, as quoted here by Luke, is to be explained figuratively. A thorough-going symbolical interpretation is detailed in the chart below.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.3.4-42.3.6|AUTODETECT|” Symbolical Interpretation of ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.3.4-42.3.6|AUTODETECT|” Luke 3:4b 6) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.3.4-42.3.6|AUTODETECT|” The Words of ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.3.4-42.3.6|AUTODETECT|” Luke 3:4b 6) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 A Possible (?) Interpretation ) 1 2 2 8 0 0 A voice of one crying in the wilderness: The message of John the Baptist, shouting in the wilderness: ) Make ready the way of the Lord,) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=24.31.18|AUTODETECT|” Make straight his paths. By means of genuine conversion 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=24.31.18|AUTODETECT|” Jer. 31:18) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ) make it possible for the Lord to make a straight path to your heart with his salvation. ) 1 4 2 8 0 0 Every valley shall be filled up,) And every mountain and hill leveled down; Every manifestation of feigned humility as well as every attitude of pride and arrogance will be and must be removed. ) The crooked roads shall become straight, Sly, perverse, deceitful habits must be and will be broken. ) And the rough ways smooth. Indifference, unconcern, and waywardness must and will make way for genuine interest and accessibility. ) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.2.32|AUTODETECT|” And all flesh shall see the salvation of God. Then people of every clime and nation, viewed in their weakness and need, will experience the salvation provided by God. Cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=42.2.32|AUTODETECT|” Luke 2:32) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 . ) 1 4 2 8 0 0 ) ) But it is also possible that such expressions as every valley. every mountain and hill, the rough ways, etc., pertain only to the underlying figure of an approaching King, and have no further significance. The meaning then would simply be, By God s grace remove every obstacle in the way of the entrance of the Lord into your hearts and lives. Be converted. And is not that the central meaning in either case?) 7 9. He [John] therefore was saying to the crowds coming out to be baptized by him, You offspring of vipers! Who warned you to escape the approaching (outpouring of) wrath?

Bear fruit therefore in keeping with conversion; and do not begin to say to yourselves, We have Abraham as our father, for I tell you that God is able to raise up children for Abraham out of these stones here. And already the ax is laid at the root of the trees; every tree therefore that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.3.7-42.3.9|AUTODETECT|” There is very little difference between ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.3.7-42.3.9|AUTODETECT|” Luke 3:7 9) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.3.7-40.3.10|AUTODETECT|” and ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.3.7-40.3.10|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 3:7 10) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 .��171�� Did Luke have before him a copy of Matthew s Gospel, or did both evangelists use a common source?) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.28.3|AUTODETECT|” When we combine Matthew s opening sentence with that of Luke we conclude that large crowds, including a goodly number of Pharisees and Sadducees, were coming out to be baptized by John. The Baptist knew, however, that many of these candidates for baptism were insincere. It is in this light that we can understand his stern rebuke, You offspring of vipers. John was acquainted with these desert snakes. Though rather small in size they were very deceptive. At times it was easy to mistake them for dead branches. Suddenly, however, they would strike and cling 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.28.3|AUTODETECT|” Acts 28:3) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.8.44|AUTODETECT|” ). The comparison was apt. Is not Satan, that deceiver 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.8.44|AUTODETECT|” John 8:44) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.12.9|AUTODETECT|” ), also called a serpent 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.12.9|AUTODETECT|” Rev. 12:9) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.20.2|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.20.2|AUTODETECT|” 20:2) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 )? Are not these people his tools?) 1 1 2 8 0 0 John adds, Who warned you to escape the approaching (outpouring of) wrath? In this connection the following ideas deserve attention:) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.2.3|AUTODETECT|” First, this wrath, or settled indignation, rests upon unregenerate man by nature 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.2.3|AUTODETECT|” Eph. 2:3) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.3.18|AUTODETECT|” ). It pertains even to the present 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.3.18|AUTODETECT|” John 3:18) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.3.36|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.3.36|AUTODETECT|” 36) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.1.18|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.1.18|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 1:18) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.5.6|AUTODETECT|” Secondly, the final outpouring of this wrath is reserved for the future 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.5.6|AUTODETECT|” Eph. 5:6) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.3.6|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.3.6|AUTODETECT|” Col. 3:6) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=53.1.8|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=53.1.8|AUTODETECT|” II Thess. 1:8) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=53.1.9|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=53.1.9|AUTODETECT|” 9) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.14.10|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.14.10|AUTODETECT|” Rev. 14:10) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=36.1.15|AUTODETECT|” Thirdly, this final manifestation of wrath 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=36.1.15|AUTODETECT|” Zeph. 1:15) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=36.2.2|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=36.2.2|AUTODETECT|” 2:2) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=39.3.2|AUTODETECT|” ) is connected with the (second) coming of the Messiah 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=39.3.2|AUTODETECT|” Mal. 3:2) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=39.3.3|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=39.3.3|AUTODETECT|” 3) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=39.4.1|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=39.4.1|AUTODETECT|” 4:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=39.4.5|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=39.4.5|AUTODETECT|” 5) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.139.0|AUTODETECT|” Fourthly, without genuine conversion man cannot escape it: Who warned you to escape & ? This probably means, Who deluded you into thinking that it is possible to evade God, and encouraged you to try it? Cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.139.0|AUTODETECT|” Ps. 139) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=32.1.3|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=32.1.3|AUTODETECT|” Jonah 1:3) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 .) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.23.23|AUTODETECT|” Fifthly, for the true penitent there is indeed a way of escape: Bear fruit therefore in keeping with conversion. Repentance, if it is to be genuine, must be accompanied by fruit-bearing. A merely outward confession of sin will never do. A mere desire to be baptized, as if this rite were a wonder-working charm, has no positive value. There must be that inward change which expresses itself outwardly in God-glorifying conduct, fruit-bearing in keeping with conversion. According to verses 10 14 this fruit-bearing must include such items as generosity, fairness, thoughtfulness, and contentment; according to ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.23.23|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 23:23) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.5.20-40.5.24|AUTODETECT|” , justice, mercy, and faith; and in view of the manner in which the Baptist descriptively addresses these people , there must be uprightness. On fruit-bearing see also ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.5.20-40.5.24|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 5:20 24) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.7.16-40.7.19|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.7.16-40.7.19|AUTODETECT|” 7:16 19) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.12.33|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.12.33|AUTODETECT|” 12:33) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.13.8|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.13.8|AUTODETECT|” 13:8) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.13.23|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.13.23|AUTODETECT|” 23) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.16.6|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.16.6|AUTODETECT|” 16:6) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.16.11|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.16.11|AUTODETECT|” 11) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.16.12|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.16.12|AUTODETECT|” 12) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.13.6-42.13.9|AUTODETECT|” ; ch. 23; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.13.6-42.13.9|AUTODETECT|” Luke 13:6 9) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.15.1-43.15.16|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.15.1-43.15.16|AUTODETECT|” John 15:1 16) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.5.22|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.5.22|AUTODETECT|” Gal. 5:22) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.5.23|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.5.23|AUTODETECT|” 23) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.5.9|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.5.9|AUTODETECT|” Eph. 5:9) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.1.22|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.1.22|AUTODETECT|” Phil. 1:22) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.4.17|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.4.17|AUTODETECT|” 4:17) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.1.6|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.1.6|AUTODETECT|” Col. 1:6) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.12.11|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.12.11|AUTODETECT|” Heb. 12:11) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.13.15|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.13.15|AUTODETECT|” 13:15) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=59.3.18|AUTODETECT|” ; and ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=59.3.18|AUTODETECT|” James 3:18) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 .) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.3.1-48.3.9|AUTODETECT|” The deplorable lack of fruit-bearing on the part of the addressed is evident also from the words: and do not begin to say to yourselves, We have Abraham as our father, for I tell you that God is able to raise up children for Abraham out of these stones here. The reason why these people were headed for damnation was that for their eternal security they were relying on their descent from Abraham. Cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.3.1-48.3.9|AUTODETECT|” Gal. 3:1 9) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=26.36.26|AUTODETECT|” and see N.T.C. on those verses. John the Baptist was fully aware of the fact that physical descent from Abraham did not guarantee being a true son of Abraham. He also knew that entirely apart from such pedigree God could give sons to Abraham. The God who was able to create Adam out of the dust of the ground was also able to make true sons of Abraham out of the desert stones to which John probably pointed. Probable symbolical overtone: He can change hearts of stone into obedient hearts 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=26.36.26|AUTODETECT|” Ezek. 36:26) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ), entirely regardless of the nationality of these hearts of stone.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.1.16|AUTODETECT|” As far as salvation was concerned, the old distinctions were gradually disappearing. This does not mean that in the order in which this salvation was being proclaimed and in which the church was being gathered there was no distinction. The historical sequence, a reflection of God s plan from eternity, certainly was to the Jew first and also to the Greek 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.1.16|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 1:16) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.13.46|AUTODETECT|” ; cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.13.46|AUTODETECT|” Acts 13:46) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.3.1|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.3.1|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 3:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.3.2|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.3.2|AUTODETECT|” 2) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.9.1-45.9.5|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.9.1-45.9.5|AUTODETECT|” 9:1 5) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.2.1-40.2.12|AUTODETECT|” ). But the beginning of a new day, a day in which there would be no distinction between Jew and Greek, was dawning. See ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.2.1-40.2.12|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 2:1 12) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.8.11|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.8.11|AUTODETECT|” 8:11) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.8.12|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.8.12|AUTODETECT|” 12) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.22.1-40.22.14|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.22.1-40.22.14|AUTODETECT|” 22:1 14) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.28.19|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.28.19|AUTODETECT|” 28:19) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.28.20|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.28.20|AUTODETECT|” 20) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.10.34-44.10.48|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.10.34-44.10.48|AUTODETECT|” Acts 10:34 48) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.9.7|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.9.7|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 9:7) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.9.8|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.9.8|AUTODETECT|” 8) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.10.12|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.10.12|AUTODETECT|” 10:12) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.10.13|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.10.13|AUTODETECT|” 13) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.7.19|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.7.19|AUTODETECT|” I Cor. 7:19) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.3.7|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.3.7|AUTODETECT|” Gal. 3:7) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.3.16|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.3.16|AUTODETECT|” 16) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.3.17|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.3.17|AUTODETECT|” 17) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.3.29|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.3.29|AUTODETECT|” 29) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.4.21-48.4.31|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.4.21-48.4.31|AUTODETECT|” 4:21 31) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.6.15|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.6.15|AUTODETECT|” 6:15) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.6.16|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.6.16|AUTODETECT|” 16) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.2.14-49.2.18|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.2.14-49.2.18|AUTODETECT|” Eph. 2:14 18) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.3.2|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.3.2|AUTODETECT|” Philippians 3:2) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.3.3|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.3.3|AUTODETECT|” 3) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.3.11|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.3.11|AUTODETECT|” Col. 3:11) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.7.9|AUTODETECT|” ; and ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.7.9|AUTODETECT|” Rev. 7:9) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.7.14|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.7.14|AUTODETECT|” 14) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.7.15|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.7.15|AUTODETECT|” 15) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 .) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.95.7|AUTODETECT|” As to the impenitent, in verse 9 John the Baptist continues: And already��172�� the ax is laid at the root of the trees. Judgment is at hand. The ax lies right in front of (����) or, as we would say, at the root, with sinister intent, ready to hew down one tree after another. Right now, therefore, is the proper moment to repent and to believe. In this connection see also ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.95.7|AUTODETECT|” Ps. 95:7) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.95.8|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.95.8|AUTODETECT|” 8) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.55.6|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.55.6|AUTODETECT|” Isa. 55:6) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.13.7|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.13.7|AUTODETECT|” Luke 13:7) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.13.9|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.13.9|AUTODETECT|” 9) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.17.32|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.17.32|AUTODETECT|” 17:32) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.15.6|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.15.6|AUTODETECT|” John 15:6) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.13.11|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.13.11|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 13:11) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.6.2|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.6.2|AUTODETECT|” II Cor. 6:2) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=62.2.18|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=62.2.18|AUTODETECT|” I John 2:18) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.1.3|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.1.3|AUTODETECT|” Rev. 1:3) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 . Continued: every tree therefore that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire. The question might be asked, But was the day of the final manifestation of God s wrath upon the wicked actually that close? Is it not true that many centuries have passed by since the Baptist spoke these words, and still the Lord has not returned for judgment? The following facts should be borne in mind:) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.11.1-23.11.4|AUTODETECT|” First, John reminds one of the Old Testament prophet who, in speaking about the last days or the Messianic age, would at times look upon the future as a traveler does on a distant mountain range. He fancies that one mountain top rises up right behind the other, when in reality the two are miles apart. The two comings of Christ are viewed as if they were one. Thus we read, A shoot shall come forth out of the stock of Jesse & and he shall smite the earth 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.11.1-23.11.4|AUTODETECT|” Isa. 11:1 4) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.61.1|AUTODETECT|” ). Jehovah has anointed me to preach good tidings to the meek. He has sent me to bind up the broken-hearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives and & the day of vengeance of our God 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.61.1|AUTODETECT|” Isa. 61:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.61.2|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.61.2|AUTODETECT|” 2) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=29.2.28-29.2.31|AUTODETECT|” ). I will pour out my Spirit upon all flesh, and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, your old men shall dream dreams, and your young men shall see visions.& The sun shall be turned into darkness, and the moon into blood, before the great and terrible day of Jehovah arrives 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=29.2.28-29.2.31|AUTODETECT|” Joel 2:28 31) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=39.3.1|AUTODETECT|” ). Cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=39.3.1|AUTODETECT|” Mal. 3:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=39.3.2|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=39.3.2|AUTODETECT|” 2) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 . This has been called prophetic foreshortening. ) 1 2 2 8 0 0 Secondly, Jerusalem s fall (a.d. 70) was drawing perilously near, and foreshadowed the final judgment.) Thirdly, impenitence has a tendency of hardening a person, so that often he is left in his present lost condition. Without genuine repentance death and the judgment are for him irrevocable and at the door. ) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=61.3.8|AUTODETECT|” Fourthly, one day is with the Lord as a thousand years, and a thousand years as one day 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=61.3.8|AUTODETECT|” II Peter 3:8) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 2 2 8 0 0 Fifthly, John was by no means the only one who emphasized the imminence of the judgment and/or the need of becoming converted right now. Therefore, if on this score we find fault with the Baptist we would also have to blame the psalmists, the prophets, the apostles, and even the Lord himself! Surely, no true believer is ready to do this.) Sixthly, all this does not necessarily mean that the Baptist himself always saw the present and the future in true perspective. See on 7:18 f. It only means that the Holy Spirit guided him so that in his actual preaching as here recorded he had a perfect right to say what he said.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=39.4.1|AUTODETECT|” The fire into which the unfruitful trees are cast is evidently a symbol of the final outpouring of God s wrath upon the wicked. See also ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=39.4.1|AUTODETECT|” Mal. 4:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.13.40|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.13.40|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 13:40) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.15.6|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.15.6|AUTODETECT|” John 15:6) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.5.22|AUTODETECT|” . Jesus spoke about the Gehenna of fire 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.5.22|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 5:22) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.5.29|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.5.29|AUTODETECT|” 29) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.18.9|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.18.9|AUTODETECT|” 18:9) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.9.47|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.9.47|AUTODETECT|” Mark 9:47) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.3.12|AUTODETECT|” ). This fire is unquenchable 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.3.12|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 3:12) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.18.8|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.18.8|AUTODETECT|” 18:8) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.9.43|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.9.43|AUTODETECT|” Mark 9:43) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.3.17|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.3.17|AUTODETECT|” Luke 3:17) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.3.12|AUTODETECT|” ). The point is not merely that there is always a fire burning in Gehenna but that God burns the wicked with unquenchable fire, the fire that has been prepared for them as well as for the devil and his angels 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.3.12|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 3:12) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.25.41|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.25.41|AUTODETECT|” 25:41) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 9 2 8 0 0 After having given us this more or less general specimen of John s preaching, Luke reports three questions asked severally by three groups of individuals. Each group wanted to know how, in concrete life situations, they should reveal the genuine character of their conversion:) 10 14. So the crowds kept asking him, What then shall��173�� we do? He answered, Let the one who has two shirts share with the one who has none, and let the one who has food do likewise.) Tax-collectors too came to be baptized. They said to him, Teacher, what shall we do? He told them, Don t exact more than required.) Soldiers too were asking, And we, what shall we do?

He replied, Don t extort money by violence, don t accuse people falsely, and be content with your pay.) The three groups consisted of: (a) people from the crowd, other than tax-collectors and soldiers; (b) tax-collectors; (c) soldiers. All three groups seem to have been oppressed by a sense of guilt. They realize that true conversion always implies sorrow for sin (repentance) and forsaking the old way of life.) Representatives of the first group ask, What then shall we do? John told them to share their clothes and food with those who were in need.) The shirt is really the tunic, a garment which by both sexes was worn next to the skin, hence under the outer garment or robe. Either to protect oneself against the cold or to have a spare for future use, a person might own two or even more tunics. The Baptist exhorts those who have two to give one to the person who has none.

With respect to food the same course is advocated.) Note, however, that John does not say that the state should step in and deprive the rich person of his property though the state does indeed have a duty with respect to the poor and destitute nor does he tell the man without a tunic that he must help himself to the property of his neighbor, nor does he in any way condone refusal to work in order to earn money with which to purchase life s necessities. What he is advocating is voluntary sharing.) A very practical lesson indeed! When catastrophe overwhelms the people of any region, and food and clothing are urgently needed, are we at all living in harmony with this exhortation when we refuse to share? Think also of the millions upon millions who, even apart from natural disasters, are living in constant abject poverty. Must they not be assisted?��174��) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.19.2|AUTODETECT|” Next, the publicans or tax-collectors are introduced. The tax-buyers or farmers had paid a fixed sum of money to the Roman government for the privilege of levying tolls upon exports and imports as well as upon whatever merchandise passed through the region. The main tax offices were located at Caesarea, Capernaum, and Jericho. The farmers would sublet their rights to chief publicans 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.19.2|AUTODETECT|” Luke 19:2) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ) who employed publicans to do the collecting. These charged what the traffic would bear, huge sums. So the publican had the reputation of being an extortionist. If he were a Jew, he was regarded by his fellows as being also a renegade or traitor, for he was in the service of the foreign oppressor.) 1 1 2 8 0 0 The publicans who now address John probably belonged to the bottom rung of their profession. They knew that they had been fleecing the public, and, conscience-stricken, they now also ask, Teacher, what shall we do? They receive the curt reply, Don t exact more than required .) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.5.29|AUTODETECT|” The reply is again very definite and uncompromising. There must be immediate, complete, wholehearted obedience. Dillydallying is deadly. Halfway measures work havoc. Sin, being a destructive force, must not be pampered. The right action must be substituted at once for the wrong. Cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.5.29|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 5:29) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.5.30|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.5.30|AUTODETECT|” 30) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.18.8|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.18.8|AUTODETECT|” 18:8) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.18.9|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.18.9|AUTODETECT|” 9) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.12.21|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.12.21|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 12:21) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 .) 1 3 2 8 0 0 And now the third group: those doing military service (thus literally). In connection with registration with a view to taxation these people would often resort to torture, in order by this means to make slaves accuse their masters of understating their holdings. By maliciously informing against the rich and by the use of extortion they would obtain money, and this not only for the government but also for themselves. They were cruel, swaggering, disgruntled. By inhuman and dishonest methods they tried to supplement their earnings. But when these people were listening to the Baptist s awesome thunderings, his vivid descriptions of impending divine judgment, they too quailed.

With fear and trembling they approached the preacher of doom with the question, And we, what shall we do? ) He answered, Do not shake people down (thus literally). He adds, and don t be sycophants [slanderous accusers]. See the note on verse 14 on page 215. Be satisfied with your earnings. ) In connection with the last two groups note that John does not say that being a tax-collector, even when this profession is practiced in the interest of a foreign government, is wrong as such; nor does he say that doing military service is wrong. What he says is that these occupations, if pursued, must be engaged in for good and not for evil.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=3.19.18|AUTODETECT|” While John s answer to the first group is couched in positive language, his reply to the second and third groups is stated in negative terms. Nevertheless, these negatives imply strong affirmatives. In fact, at bottom all three answers amount to this: Show genuine love. According to both the Old and the New Testament such love is the fulfilment of the law 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=3.19.18|AUTODETECT|” Lev. 19:18) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=5.6.5|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=5.6.5|AUTODETECT|” Deut. 6:5) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.19.19|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.19.19|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 19:19) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.22.34-40.22.40|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.22.34-40.22.40|AUTODETECT|” 22:34 40) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.12.28-41.12.34|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.12.28-41.12.34|AUTODETECT|” Mark 12:28 34) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.10.25-42.10.28|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.10.25-42.10.28|AUTODETECT|” Luke 10:25 28) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.13.34|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.13.34|AUTODETECT|” John 13:34) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.13.8-45.13.10|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.13.8-45.13.10|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 13:8 10) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.13.0|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.13.0|AUTODETECT|” I Cor. 13) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.5.14|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.5.14|AUTODETECT|” Gal. 5:14) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 2 2 8 0 0 Now apart from Christ and his Spirit the exercise of this love is impossible. Appropriately, therefore, Luke continues by describing John the Baptist in the act of preaching about Christ and his Spirit:) 15 18. Now while the people were on tiptoe of expectation, and all were wondering in their hearts about John, whether he might be the Christ, he expressly answered them all, I on my part baptize you with water, but he who is mightier than I is coming whose sandal straps I am not fit to untie he will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and with fire. His winnowing shovel is in his hand, and he will thoroughly clear his threshing floor. He will gather his grain into the granary, but the chaff he will consume with unquenchable fire.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.3.11|AUTODETECT|” By and large this little paragraph is parallel to ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.3.11|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 3:11) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.3.12|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.3.12|AUTODETECT|” 12) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.1.7|AUTODETECT|” ; cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.1.7|AUTODETECT|” Mark 1:7) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.1.8|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.1.8|AUTODETECT|” 8) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 . Peculiar to Luke, however, are the introductory words, Now while the people were on tiptoe of expectation, and all were wondering in their hearts about John, whether he might be the Christ, he expressly answered them all.& ) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.1.76-42.1.79|AUTODETECT|” That there was indeed a Messianic expectation is clear from such passages as ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.1.76-42.1.79|AUTODETECT|” Luke 1:76 79) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.2.25|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.2.25|AUTODETECT|” 2:25) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.2.26|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.2.26|AUTODETECT|” 26) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.2.38|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.2.38|AUTODETECT|” 38) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 . That this hope was not necessarily completely confined to the hearts and minds of devout Israelites but may even have glimmered among heathen who had been in touch with them must be granted.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.1.19-43.1.25|AUTODETECT|” Of late, however, this expectation had been intensified by the many stories that had been spreading, especially those about John. His sudden appearance, rigorous self-denial, stern call to conversion, all these had become matters of deliberation and discussion. But especially his baptizing & of Abraham s children! About this same time a committee was being sent to John with the question, Who are you? & Then why are you baptizing if you are neither the Christ nor Elijah nor the prophet? 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.1.19-43.1.25|AUTODETECT|” John 1:19 25) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.1.26|AUTODETECT|” ). According to ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.1.26|AUTODETECT|” John 1:26) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.1.27|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.1.27|AUTODETECT|” 27) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.3.16|AUTODETECT|” it was on this occasion that John uttered the words which, in almost identical form, are found also in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.3.16|AUTODETECT|” Luke 3:16) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 a. There is no reason to question the fact that words which, according to the Fourth Gospel, were addressed to Pharisees were also, in amplified form, spoken to an entire multitude.) 1 1 2 8 0 0 The people, then, were on tiptoe of expectation. They were wondering whether John, a man who spoke with such conviction and so forcefully, whose words found such a response in their own conscience, and especially, a man who started something new, namely, baptizing Jews, as if they too were unclean, might not himself be the Christ.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.1.7|AUTODETECT|” John now draws a contrast between what he is doing and what One mightier than he is about to do. He tells the people that the qualitative distance between himself and the Coming One, who is mightier than he, is so great that he, John, is not even worthy to untie 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.1.7|AUTODETECT|” Mark 1:7) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.3.11|AUTODETECT|” ), remove and carry away 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.3.11|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 3:11) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ) that Coming One s sandals. To One so great the Baptist is not even worthy to render the services of a slave; of this he is convinced.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.1.8|AUTODETECT|” John baptizes with water; Jesus will baptize with the Spirit. He will cause his Spirit and the latter s gifts to come upon his followers 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.1.8|AUTODETECT|” Acts 1:8) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.2.17|AUTODETECT|” ), be poured out on them 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.2.17|AUTODETECT|” Acts 2:17) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.2.33|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.2.33|AUTODETECT|” 33) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.10.44|AUTODETECT|” ), fall upon them 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.10.44|AUTODETECT|” Acts 10:44) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.11.15|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.11.15|AUTODETECT|” 11:15) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.3.11|AUTODETECT|” Now it is true that whenever a person is drawn out of the darkness into God s marvelous light he is being baptized with the Holy Spirit and with fire. Thus Calvin in his comments on ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.3.11|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 3:11) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.1.5|AUTODETECT|” remarks that it is Christ who bestows the Spirit of regeneration, and that, like fire, this Spirit purifies us by removing our pollution. However, according to Christ s own words 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.1.5|AUTODETECT|” Acts 1:5) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.1.8|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.1.8|AUTODETECT|” 8) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.11.16|AUTODETECT|” ), remembered by Peter 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.11.16|AUTODETECT|” Acts 11:16) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=62.2.20|AUTODETECT|” ), in a special sense this prediction was fulfilled on the day of Pentecost and during the era which it introduced. It was then that, through the coming of the Spirit, the minds of Christ s followers were enriched with unprecedented illumination 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=62.2.20|AUTODETECT|” I John 2:20) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.4.13|AUTODETECT|” ); their wills strengthened, as never before, with contagious animation 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.4.13|AUTODETECT|” Acts 4:13) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.4.19|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.4.19|AUTODETECT|” 19) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.4.20|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.4.20|AUTODETECT|” 20) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.4.33|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.4.33|AUTODETECT|” 33) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.5.29|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.5.29|AUTODETECT|” 5:29) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.2.44-44.2.47|AUTODETECT|” ); and their hearts flooded with warm affection to a degree previously unheard of 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.2.44-44.2.47|AUTODETECT|” Acts 2:44 47) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.3.6|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.3.6|AUTODETECT|” 3:6) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.4.32|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.4.32|AUTODETECT|” 4:32) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.2.3|AUTODETECT|” The mention of fire fits this application to Pentecost, when there appeared to them divided tongues of fire, resting on each one of them 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.2.3|AUTODETECT|” Acts 2:3) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=29.2.30|AUTODETECT|” ). The flame illumines. Fire cleanses. The Spirit does both. Nevertheless, it would appear from the context (both before and after; see verses 9 and 17) and from Joel s Pentecost prophecy 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=29.2.30|AUTODETECT|” Joel 2:30) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.2.19|AUTODETECT|” ; cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.2.19|AUTODETECT|” Acts 2:19) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=29.2.31|AUTODETECT|” ), considered in its context 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=29.2.31|AUTODETECT|” Joel 2:31) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=61.3.7|AUTODETECT|” ), that the ultimate fulfilment of the Baptist s words awaits Christ s glorious return to cleanse the earth with fire 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=61.3.7|AUTODETECT|” II Peter 3:7) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=61.3.12|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=61.3.12|AUTODETECT|” 12) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=39.3.2|AUTODETECT|” ; cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=39.3.2|AUTODETECT|” Mal. 3:2) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=53.1.8|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=53.1.8|AUTODETECT|” II Thess. 1:8) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.6.6|AUTODETECT|” Often in Scripture fire symbolizes wrath. But fire is also indicative of the work of grace 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.6.6|AUTODETECT|” Isa. 6:6) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.6.7|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.6.7|AUTODETECT|” 7) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=38.13.9|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=38.13.9|AUTODETECT|” Zech. 13:9) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=39.3.3|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=39.3.3|AUTODETECT|” Mal. 3:3) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=60.1.7|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=60.1.7|AUTODETECT|” I Peter 1:7) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). It is not strange, therefore, that this term can be used both in a favorable sense, to indicate the blessings of Pentecost and the new dispensation, and in an unfavorable sense, to indicate the terrors of the coming judgment day. It is Christ who both purifies the righteous and purges the earth of its dross, the wicked. Moreover, if the Old Testament prophets would often, by means of prophetic foreshortening, combine the events pertaining to Christ first coming (taken in its comprehensive sense, including even Pentecost) with those of the second, why cannot that same feature be ascribed also to the style of John the Baptist, who resembled these prophets in so many ways? It is clear, therefore, that the case for the interpretation according to which the word fire here in 3:16 refers both to Pentecost and to the final judgment is strong.) 1 2 2 8 0 0 The reasonable character of the explanation, according to which the baptism with fire includes a reference to the final judgment, is also evident from verse 17, which likewise refers to that great day: His winnowing shovel is in his hand, and he will thoroughly clear his threshing floor. The underlying figure is that of a threshing floor where winnowing is taking place. Such a floor is either natural or artificial. If the former, it is the surface of a flat rock on top of a hill, exposed to the wind. If the latter, it is a similarly exposed area, about thirty to fifty feet in diameter, which has been prepared by clearing the soil of stones, wetting it down, and then packing it hard and smooth, causing it to slope slightly upward along the rim, and surrounding it with a border of stones to keep the grain inside. First, the sheaves of grain (barley or wheat) that have been spread out in this area are threshed by oxen pulling a sled the bottom of which is studded with stones whereby the kernels of grain are separated from the stalks.

The chaff (whatever remains of the kernels hard coat, dust, dirt, small pieces of straw) is, however, still clinging to the kernels. Now the winnowing, to which verse 17 refers, begins. Bunch by bunch the threshed grain is tossed into the air by means of a shovel equipped with two or more prongs; the afternoon breeze, generally sweeping in from the Mediterranean from May through September, blows away the chaff. The heavier grain kernels fall straight down upon the threshing floor. Thus grain and chaff are separated. The work of winnowing does not stop until the threshing floor has been thoroughly cleared.) Thus also Christ at his return will thoroughly clear the area where the judgment will take place.

No one will escape detection. Even now he is fully equipped with all that is needed to perform the task of separating the good from the bad. He will gather his grain into the granary, but the chaff he will consume with unquenchable fire. ) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.116.15|AUTODETECT|” The threshed and winnowed grain is brought to the granary; literally, the place where things are put (or: stored) away. It is stored away because it is regarded as being very valuable, very precious. From the underlying figure we proceed to the reality. Even the death of believers is described in Scripture in a very comforting manner. It is precious in the sight of Jehovah 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.116.15|AUTODETECT|” Ps. 116:15) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.16.22|AUTODETECT|” ); a being carried away by the angels into Abraham s bosom 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.16.22|AUTODETECT|” Luke 16:22) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.23.43|AUTODETECT|” ); a going to Paradise 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.23.43|AUTODETECT|” Luke 23:43) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.1.23|AUTODETECT|” ); a blessed departure 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.1.23|AUTODETECT|” Phil. 1:23) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.5.8|AUTODETECT|” ); a being at home with the Lord 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.5.8|AUTODETECT|” II Cor. 5:8) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.1.21|AUTODETECT|” ); a gain 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.1.21|AUTODETECT|” Phil. 1:21) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.1.23|AUTODETECT|” ); better by far 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.1.23|AUTODETECT|” Phil. 1:23) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.11.11|AUTODETECT|” ); and a falling asleep in the Lord 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.11.11|AUTODETECT|” John 11:11) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.4.13|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.4.13|AUTODETECT|” I Thess 4:13) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.14.2|AUTODETECT|” ). Then surely the final stage in the glorification of God s children, both body and soul now participating in this bliss, will be most precious: a going to the house with many mansions 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.14.2|AUTODETECT|” John 14:2) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.14.3|AUTODETECT|” ), a being welcomed to the very presence of Christ ( I will come again and will take you to be face to face with me, in order that where I am you may be also, ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.14.3|AUTODETECT|” John 14:3) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=61.3.13|AUTODETECT|” ), a living forever in the new heaven and earth from which every stain of sin and every trace of the curse will have been removed; in which righteousness dwells 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=61.3.13|AUTODETECT|” II Peter 3:13) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.21.1-66.21.5|AUTODETECT|” ); in which God will dwell with them, and they shall be his people, and he himself shall be with them and be their God, wiping away every tear from their eyes, etc. 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.21.1-66.21.5|AUTODETECT|” Rev. 21:1 5) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.11.6-23.11.9|AUTODETECT|” ); and in which the prophecy of ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.11.6-23.11.9|AUTODETECT|” Isa. 11:6 9) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.21.9-66.22.5|AUTODETECT|” ( The wolf shall dwell with the lamb, etc.) and of ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.21.9-66.22.5|AUTODETECT|” Rev. 21:9 22:5) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 (the new Jerusalem) will reach its ultimate fulfilment.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.9.48|AUTODETECT|” Back to the underlying figure once more. From the grain we now turn to the chaff. This, having dropped down at a place, or places, away from the grain, is collected and burned. So also the wicked, having been separated from the good, will be cast into hell, the place of unquenchable fire. Their punishment is unending. Their worm never dies 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.9.48|AUTODETECT|” Mark 9:48) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=27.12.2|AUTODETECT|” ). Their shame is everlasting 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=27.12.2|AUTODETECT|” Dan. 12:2) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=65.1.6|AUTODETECT|” ). So are their bonds 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=65.1.6|AUTODETECT|” Jude 6) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=65.1.7|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=65.1.7|AUTODETECT|” 7) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.14.9-66.14.11|AUTODETECT|” ). They will be tormented with fire and brimstone & and the smoke of their torment ascends forever and ever, so that they have no rest day or night 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.14.9-66.14.11|AUTODETECT|” Rev. 14:9 11) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.19.3|AUTODETECT|” ; cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.19.3|AUTODETECT|” 19:3) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.20.10|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.20.10|AUTODETECT|” 20:10) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=5.9.3|AUTODETECT|” In which sense is this fire to be understood? Answer: though the idea of a fire which in some sense is physical need not be excluded, yet according to Scripture the literal sense does not exhaust the meaning. Everlasting fire has been prepared for the devil and his angels. Yet these are spirits and cannot be hurt by literal fire. Moreover, Scripture itself points the way to the symbolical meaning; i.e., to the divine wrath resting upon the impenitent and, consequently, to their anguish 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=5.9.3|AUTODETECT|” Deut. 9:3) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=5.32.22|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=5.32.22|AUTODETECT|” 32:22) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.11.5|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.11.5|AUTODETECT|” Ps. 11:5) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.11.6|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.11.6|AUTODETECT|” 6) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.18.8|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.18.8|AUTODETECT|” 18:8) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.21.9|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.21.9|AUTODETECT|” 21:9) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.89.46|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.89.46|AUTODETECT|” 89:46) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.5.24|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.5.24|AUTODETECT|” Isa. 5:24) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.5.25|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.5.25|AUTODETECT|” 25) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=24.4.4|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=24.4.4|AUTODETECT|” Jer. 4:4) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=34.1.6|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=34.1.6|AUTODETECT|” Nah. 1:6) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=39.3.2|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=39.3.2|AUTODETECT|” Mal. 3:2) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.5.22|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.5.22|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 5:22) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.10.27|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.10.27|AUTODETECT|” Heb. 10:27) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.12.29|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.12.29|AUTODETECT|” 12:29) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=61.3.7|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=61.3.7|AUTODETECT|” II Peter 3:7) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.14.10|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.14.10|AUTODETECT|” Rev. 14:10) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.14.11|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.14.11|AUTODETECT|” 11) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.15.2|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.15.2|AUTODETECT|” 15:2) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 7 2 8 0 0 The Baptist s warning, dire and dreadful though it may seem, is filled with mercy, for its purpose is that men may be converted.) Luke closes this paragraph by stating that he has given only a sample of John s preaching. He says: Thus, continually exhorting with respect to many and different matters, John was preaching the gospel to the people.) 19, 20. But when Herod the tetrarch was repeatedly rebuked by John because of Herodias, Herod s brother s wife, and because of all the (other) evil deeds he had committed, he added this to them all: he locked John up in prison.) As is so often the case, Luke s account here is not chronological. John the Baptist probably began his ministry in the middle of the year a.d. 26, as has been shown in connection with the explanation of 3:1, 2. He may have been imprisoned at the close of the year a.d. 27, and put to death about the beginning of a.d. 29. This would mean that for about a year (late 26 late 27) the ministries of Jesus and of John were concurrent.

Luke, not yet having told its anything about Jesus ministry, already mentions John s imprisonment!) But though not always chronological, Luke s account is logical. He wishes to bring the story of John s ministry to a close, in order to write the story of Christ s ministry. There surely can be no objection to that.) This does not mean that Luke never mentions John again. There are references to the Baptist in 5:33; 9:7, 9, 19; 11:1; 16:16; 20:4, 6; and see especially 7:18 35. But the story of John s active ministry as a free man ends here.) Herodias, as shown on the chart (N.T.C. on Matthew, p. 189), was the daughter of Aristobulus, who was a son of Herod the Great by Mariamne I. Herodias had married her half-uncle (her father s half-brother) Herod Philip, a private citizen, son of Herod the Great by Mariamne II.

Herod Philip must not be confused with his half-brother Philip the tetrarch.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=3.18.16|AUTODETECT|” Now Herod Antipas, another half-brother, on a visit to Herod Philip, became infatuated with Herodias. The two illicit lovers agreed to separate from their present marriage partners Herodias from Herod Philip; Herod Antipas from the daughter of Aretas, king of the Nabatean Arabs and to marry each other. This was done. When John the Baptist heard about this he rebuked Herod Antipas. He did this repeatedly. There was good reason for the rebuke, for such a marriage was incestuous 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=3.18.16|AUTODETECT|” Lev. 18:16) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=3.20.21|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=3.20.21|AUTODETECT|” 20:21) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.7.2|AUTODETECT|” ). Was it not also adulterous 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.7.2|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 7:2) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.7.3|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.7.3|AUTODETECT|” 3) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 )?) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.6.20|AUTODETECT|” Of course, Herodias knew very well that whenever John rebuked the tetrarch he was also, by implication, denouncing her. So she insisted by means of constant nagging perhaps? that John be put to death. As to Herod Antipas himself, his attitude to the accuser was not entirely hateful. In fact there were certain qualities in John that he admired. See ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.6.20|AUTODETECT|” Mark 6:20) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 . On the other hand, he had to put up with the woman whom he now considered his wife, and whose heart was seething with unmitigated, savage vengeance. Not at all to yield to her wishes seemed impossible. So he compromised. He arrested John, put him in chains, and shut him up in a terrible, deep, and hot dungeon that formed part of the castle-palace at Machaerus.) 1 2 2 8 0 0 Note that Luke adds that Herod Antipas was also repeatedly rebuked because of all the (other) evil deeds he had committed. What the evangelist is saying, then, is this, that of all the wicked deeds Herod Antipas ever perpetrated, this crime of imprisoning in his mind did Luke add and subsequently murdering ? John the Baptist was the most revolting. It was disgusting, loathsome, for it was a crime against John, the gospel, the people, God!��175��) ) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.3.1-42.3.20|AUTODETECT|” Practical Lessons Derived from ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.3.1-42.3.20|AUTODETECT|” Luke 3:1 20) 1 5 2 8 0 0 Verse 2) The Word of God came to & John. Preachers can be effective only when they are truly ministers of God s Word. ) Verse 3) Conversion. A person is not saved by outward reformation. What he needs is inner transformation; that is, conversion.) Verses 4, 5) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.86.11|AUTODETECT|” Make straight his [the Lord s] paths. It is a terrible thing to cast obstacles into the path of God s approach to heart and life, or even to leave things as they are. Every impediment must be removed. See ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.86.11|AUTODETECT|” Ps. 86:11) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 b.) 1 1 2 8 0 0 Verse 6) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.3.22-45.3.24|AUTODETECT|” All flesh shall see the salvation of God. Rich man, poor man; black man, white man; highly educated, illiterate; male, female; old, young; there is one way for all. See ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.3.22-45.3.24|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 3:22 24) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 .) 1 1 2 8 0 0 Verse 7) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.7.24|AUTODETECT|” Offspring of vipers. John knew that the first step in being saved is always that I must know how great my sins and misery are (quoted from the Heidelberg Catechism). Cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.7.24|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 7:24) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 .) 1 16 2 8 0 0 Verse 10) What then shall we do? In his answer the Baptist places great stress on human responsibility. That is as it should be; just so it is realized that only by the power and grace of God is man able to do what God demands of him.) Verse 16) He who is mightier than I. John was truly great in God s sight & because he was truly small in his own sight.) Verses 19, 20) Herod & locked John up in prison. And by doing this he was locking himself up in a far more terrible prison, one from which he was never going to escape. The word of God is ever mightier than the sword, even than the executioner s sword.) ) Notes on Greek Words, Phrases, and Constructions in 3:1 20) Verse 2) ���� ����, here probably a particular utterance of God, perhaps even in the sense of a command to proclaim God s message to the people.

In our comments it is called the divine message ordering John to awaken the people to the need of basic conversion. ) Verse 5) ������, a ravine, gulley, valley, chasm. Cf. pharynx.) ������������, third per. s. fut. passive indicat. of ������, to fill. See also on 2:40.) ������ (cf. 23:30), hill. It can be associated with the familiar ���, �����, in the sense of to ascend, though etymological connection with that verb is uncertain.) ��������������, another fut. passive indicat.; this one of ��������, to make low, humble. See the cognate noun in the note on 1:48 on page 111.) �������, crooked. Cf. scalene (unequal).) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.27.29|AUTODETECT|” ������**, rough, uneven; cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.27.29|AUTODETECT|” Acts 27:29) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 . Cf. trachea (windpipe with its rough rings); also rugged Trachonitis.) 1 16 2 8 0 0 �����* (acc. fem. pl. �����), smooth, plain; cf. level.) Verse 6) For �x �������� see the note on 2:30 on page 176.) Verse 7) �����**, lizard, viper.) Q�������, third per. s. aor. indicat. of Q����������; literally: to show under; hence, to suggest. Cf. indicate.) Verse 10) �������, imperfect, they kept asking.) ���������, deliberative first per. pl. aor. subjunctive. So also in verses 12 and 14.) Verse 12) �������, tax-collector (= ����� plus `������, to buy). Cf. toll and vend.) Verse 13) ��������, sec. per. pl. active imperative of ������. Cf. Do not do them in ; that is, Do not inflict great injury on them. ) Verse 14) ����������, sec. per. pl. aor. active subjunctive of �������*, to shake thoroughly, harass, extort, deceive.) �������������, same construction as the preceding verb.

The word is said to have been derived from �����, fig, plus �����, to show, to expose; hence ����������* indicates the action of a person who shows up (informs against) anyone who exports figs out of Attica; and the meaning developed into: to accuse falsely, to slander, cheat. Whether this story of the origination of the verb and of the noun ���������� (sycophant, defamer) is correct is uncertain.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.9.7|AUTODETECT|” @������, wages; from D���, cooked food, plus `������, to buy; and so: ration, pay, soldier s pay; in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.9.7|AUTODETECT|” I Cor. 9:7) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.6.23|AUTODETECT|” a preacher s wages; in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.6.23|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 6:23) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 sin s wages.) 1 5 2 8 0 0 Verse 15) Note the two genitive absolutes.) ������ �4�, third per. s. pres. optative of �0��: whether he might be, whether perhaps he were. In direct discourse the indicative would have been used.) Verse 17) �����, winnowing shovel.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.3.12|AUTODETECT|” ����������, cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.3.12|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 3:12) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 . The form used by Luke is the effective aor. infinitive of ����������, to cleanse or clear thoroughly. Cf. catharsis.) 1 5 2 8 0 0 �������, unquenchable; cf. asbestos (with different meaning, however).) Verse 19) ����������, reproved, pres. passive participle of �����, to bring to light, expose, reprove, punish.) ) 3:21, 22 The Baptism of Jesus) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.3.13-40.3.17|AUTODETECT|” Cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.3.13-40.3.17|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 3:13 17) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.1.9-41.1.11|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=41.1.9-41.1.11|AUTODETECT|” Mark 1:9 11) 1 5 2 8 0 0 21 Now when all the people were baptized, and Jesus was also baptized and was praying, the heaven was opened, 22 and the Holy Spirit descended upon him in bodily form, as a dove. And a voice came out of heaven, Thou art my Son, the Beloved; with thee I am well pleased. ��176��) ) 21. Now when all the people were baptized, and Jesus was also baptized and was praying, the heaven was opened & When the question is asked, Since Jesus was not stained by any sin, and since baptism indicates the washing away of sin, why then did he submit to baptism? writers react in various ways. Some skip the problem entirely. That is the easy way out. Others answer that when Jesus saw people flocking to John to be baptized he joined the crowd, wishing to be identified with them.

And still others give the enigmatic answer that Christ s baptism was his priestly inauguration, and then leave this item unexplained.) There are, of course, also others who, in one form or another, have given the right answer. Thus S. Greijdanus states that Baptism was the Lord s public assumption of his work as Messiah. ��177��) If what we see here is a jigsaw puzzle, the various pieces can be fitted together so as to form a clear picture as follows:) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.8.46|AUTODETECT|” a. The water of baptism signifies the necessity of being cleansed. In a certain sense that was true also in the case of Jesus. He himself was sinless 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.8.46|AUTODETECT|” John 8:46) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.5.21|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.5.21|AUTODETECT|” II Cor. 5:21) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.4.15|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.4.15|AUTODETECT|” Heb. 4:15) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). In himself there was nothing that needed to be, or could be, cleansed. But on himself? See the next point:) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.53.5|AUTODETECT|” b. According to Scripture s consistent teaching the Messiah took on himself his people s guilt, and vicariously bore (or: was to bear) its punishment 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.53.5|AUTODETECT|” Isa. 53:5) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.53.6|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.53.6|AUTODETECT|” 6) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.53.8|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.53.8|AUTODETECT|” 8) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.53.10|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.53.10|AUTODETECT|” 10) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.53.12|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.53.12|AUTODETECT|” 12) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.20.28|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.20.28|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 20:28) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.10.45|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.10.45|AUTODETECT|” Mark 10:45) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.22.19|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.22.19|AUTODETECT|” Luke 22:19) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.22.20|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.22.20|AUTODETECT|” 20) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.3.24|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.3.24|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 3:24) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.3.25|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.3.25|AUTODETECT|” 25) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.5.8|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.5.8|AUTODETECT|” 5:8) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.1|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.1|AUTODETECT|” 8:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.5.21|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.5.21|AUTODETECT|” II Cor. 5:21) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.3.13|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.3.13|AUTODETECT|” Gal. 3:13) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.1.5|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.1.5|AUTODETECT|” Rev. 1:5) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.11.2|AUTODETECT|” c. In order to bring about this vicarious redemption, the Holy Spirit, with all his qualifying power 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.11.2|AUTODETECT|” Isa. 11:2) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.48.16|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.48.16|AUTODETECT|” 48:16) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.61.1-23.61.3|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.61.1-23.61.3|AUTODETECT|” 61:1 3) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=38.4.6|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=38.4.6|AUTODETECT|” Zech. 4:6) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.4.18|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.4.18|AUTODETECT|” Luke 4:18) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.4.19|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.4.19|AUTODETECT|” 19) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ), descended on Jesus, qualifying him (according to his human nature) for the task he had taken upon himself.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.3.16|AUTODETECT|” d. For this symbolic public assumption of his task, that of taking away the sin of others, the Father caused his voice of love and approval to be heard from heaven 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.3.16|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 3:16) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.3.17|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.3.17|AUTODETECT|” 17) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.1.10|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.1.10|AUTODETECT|” Mark 1:10) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.1.11|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.1.11|AUTODETECT|” 11) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.3.22|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.3.22|AUTODETECT|” Luke 3:22) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.1.29|AUTODETECT|” e. Shortly afterward the Baptist introduced Jesus to the crowd by saying, Look, the Lamb of God, who is taking away the sin of the world 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.1.29|AUTODETECT|” John 1:29) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ; see also verses 30 34).) 1 1 2 8 0 0 When these pieces are thus fitted together, do they not produce a picture of the Christ in the act of publicly assuming his task: that of openly taking upon himself, atoning for, and carrying away the sin of the world ?) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.2.21|AUTODETECT|” As to what actually happened, we have noticed that in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.2.21|AUTODETECT|” Luke 2:21) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 the emphasis was not on the circumcision but on the naming of the child. So here also the emphasis is not on Jesus baptism but on what took place while he was praying, namely, the Spirit s descent upon him and the Father s approving voice.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.1.9|AUTODETECT|” What Luke writes is completely misconstrued when it is changed to something resembling the following: Now after all the people had been baptized, Jesus was also baptized. Even today one actually hears sermons in which the text, so interpreted, is made the basis for a sermon on Christ s humility: he just stood there, stood there, stood there & patiently waiting until all the others were baptized. Only then did he also present himself for baptism! The words, Now when all the people were baptized, and Jesus was also baptized, etc., simply imply that at the height of John s baptizing activity Jesus was also baptized. Note, however, that in this connection Luke does not even mention John s name, though it is clear from verses 2, 15, 16, 20, that it was indeed John who baptized Jesus. See also ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.1.9|AUTODETECT|” Mark 1:9) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.1.28-43.1.34|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.1.28-43.1.34|AUTODETECT|” John 1:28 34) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.3.13-40.3.15|AUTODETECT|” .) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.3.13-40.3.15|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 3:13 15) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 even supplies further details, showing how John s hesitancy to baptize Jesus was overcome. The reason Luke omits the name of the man who baptized Jesus may well have been that this evangelist has now begun to tell us the story of Christ s ministry. He is no longer speaking about John the Baptist.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.6.41|AUTODETECT|” Note the significant words and Jesus was also baptized and was praying. Jesus attached great importance to prayer. He prayed not only in connection with his baptism, as shown here, but also when crowds were gathering (5:15, 16); just before choosing the twelve disciples (6:12); in connection with, and after, the miraculous feeding of the five thousand 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.6.41|AUTODETECT|” Mark 6:41) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.6.46|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.6.46|AUTODETECT|” 46) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.14.19|AUTODETECT|” ; cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.14.19|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 14:19) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.14.23|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.14.23|AUTODETECT|” 23) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.9.18|AUTODETECT|” ); when he was about to ask his disciples an important question 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.9.18|AUTODETECT|” Luke 9:18) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.9.28|AUTODETECT|” ); on the mountain where he was transfigured 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.9.28|AUTODETECT|” Luke 9:28) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.11.25-40.11.30|AUTODETECT|” ); just before extending the tender invitation, Come to me all who are weary & 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.11.25-40.11.30|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 11:25 30) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.10.21|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.10.21|AUTODETECT|” Luke 10:21) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.11.1|AUTODETECT|” ); just before he taught the disciples the Lord s Prayer 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.11.1|AUTODETECT|” Luke 11:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.11.41|AUTODETECT|” ); at Lazarus tomb 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.11.41|AUTODETECT|” John 11:41) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.11.42|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.11.42|AUTODETECT|” 42) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.22.32|AUTODETECT|” ); for Peter, before the denial 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.22.32|AUTODETECT|” Luke 22:32) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.17.0|AUTODETECT|” ); during the night of the institution of the Lord s Supper 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.17.0|AUTODETECT|” John 17) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.14.16|AUTODETECT|” ; cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.14.16|AUTODETECT|” 14:16) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.14.32|AUTODETECT|” ); in Gethsemane 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.14.32|AUTODETECT|” Mark 14:32) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.14.35|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.14.35|AUTODETECT|” 35) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.14.36|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.14.36|AUTODETECT|” 36) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.14.39|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.14.39|AUTODETECT|” 39) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.26.39|AUTODETECT|” ; cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.26.39|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 26:39) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.26.42|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.26.42|AUTODETECT|” 42) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.26.44|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.26.44|AUTODETECT|” 44) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.22.42|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.22.42|AUTODETECT|” Luke 22:42) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.23.34|AUTODETECT|” ); on the cross 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.23.34|AUTODETECT|” Luke 23:34) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.27.46|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.27.46|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 27:46) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.15.34|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.15.34|AUTODETECT|” Mark 15:34) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.23.46|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.23.46|AUTODETECT|” Luke 23:46) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.24.30|AUTODETECT|” ); and after his resurrection 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.24.30|AUTODETECT|” Luke 24:30) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). These references must be considered as being merely examples of a much more extensive life of prayer and thanksgiving. On the subject of Luke s own emphasis on prayer see Introduction, point I A 5 b.) 1 2 2 8 0 0 If the meaning of Christ s baptism, as indicated in the preceding, is understood, it will not seem strange that Jesus, about to undertake a task so grievous, yet also so glorious, would feel the need of fellowship with his Father in heaven.) While Jesus was praying the heaven was opened. 22 & and the Holy Spirit descended upon him in bodily form, as a dove. Suddenly heaven was as it were rent asunder, and with the symbolism of a dove the Third Person of the Trinity descended on Jesus.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.68.13|AUTODETECT|” What was seen physically was a bodily form resembling a dove. It was seen descending on Jesus. It is not clear just why God chose the form of a dove to represent the Holy Spirit. Some commentators point to the purity and the gentleness or graciousness of the dove, properties which, in an infinite degree, characterize the Spirit, and therefore also Christ 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.68.13|AUTODETECT|” Ps. 68:13) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=22.2.14|AUTODETECT|” ; Song of ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=22.2.14|AUTODETECT|” Sol. 2:14) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=22.5.2|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=22.5.2|AUTODETECT|” 5:2) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.10.16|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.10.16|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 10:16) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.11.29|AUTODETECT|” ). Thus equipped and qualified, he was able to carry out the very difficult task which the Father had given him to do. To save us from sin he himself needed to be pure. To endure torment, to pardon our iniquities, and to exercise patience with our weaknesses, he needed gentleness, meekness, graciousness. This, too, he possessed in an abundant measure, and he told his followers that, by the grace and power of God, they should acquire and exercise these same gifts 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.11.29|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 11:29) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.11.30|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.11.30|AUTODETECT|” 30) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.12.19|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.12.19|AUTODETECT|” 12:19) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.21.4|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.21.4|AUTODETECT|” 21:4) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.21.5|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.21.5|AUTODETECT|” 5) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.23.34|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.23.34|AUTODETECT|” Luke 23:34) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.1.29|AUTODETECT|” So far we have heard about the Son s baptism, thereby openly affirming his entire willingness to take upon himself the sin of the world 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.1.29|AUTODETECT|” John 1:29) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ); also about the Spirit s descent upon him, qualifying him for a task infinitely tremendous and sublime. It is therefore altogether fitting that the voice of the Father s wholehearted approval and delight be added, so that it may become clear that in the work of saving sinners, as in every divine work, the three are one. Note, therefore, the concluding words of this section: And a voice came out of heaven, Thou art my Son, the Beloved; with thee I am well pleased [or: in thee I take delight].) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.1.14|AUTODETECT|” Whose voice was it? The Speaker is not named. Neither is this necessary, for the very phraseology identifies the Speaker as being, of course, the Father. Moreover, not only in his official Messianic capacity but also as Son by eternal generation, as the One who fully shares the divine essence together with the Father and the Spirit, Jesus is the Father s Beloved 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.1.14|AUTODETECT|” John 1:14) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.3.16|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.3.16|AUTODETECT|” 3:16) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.10.17|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.10.17|AUTODETECT|” 10:17) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.17.23|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.17.23|AUTODETECT|” 17:23) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). No higher love is possible than the love which the Father cherishes toward his Son. According to the verbal adjective (beloved) here used, this love is deep-seated, thorough-going, as great as is the heart of God itself. It is also as intelligent and purposeful as is the mind of God. It is tender, vast, infinite!��178��) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=20.8.30|AUTODETECT|” Not only that, but this love is also eternal; that is, it is timeless, raised far above all temporal boundaries. Though some disagree, the rendering with thee I am well pleased must be considered correct.��179�� In the quiet recess of eternity the Son was the object of the Father s inexhaustible delight 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=20.8.30|AUTODETECT|” Prov. 8:30) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). The former s public affirmation, by means of baptism, of his purpose to shed his blood for a world lost in sin did nothing to diminish that love. That is what the Father is telling his Son. That is what he is also telling all of us.) 1 2 2 8 0 0 How filled with comfort this paragraph, comfort not only for the Son and for John, but for every child of God, for it indicates that not only the Son loves his followers enough to suffer the pangs of hell in their stead, but that also the Spirit fully co-operates by strengthening him for this very task, and that the Father, instead of frowning upon the One who undertakes it, is so very pleased with him that he must needs rend asunder the very heavens, that his voice of delightful approval may be heard on earth!��180�� All three are equally interested in our salvation, and the three are One.��181��) ) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.3.21|AUTODETECT|” Practical Lessons Derived from ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.3.21|AUTODETECT|” Luke 3:21) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.3.22|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.3.22|AUTODETECT|” 22) 1 47 2 8 0 0 Verse 21) And was praying. It is especially Luke who emphasizes the fact that Jesus not only urged his disciples to pray, and even taught them to pray, but lived a life of prayer. When the teacher is himself seen doing the very things he tells others to do, his teaching is bound to be far more effective.) Verses 21, 22) Jesus was baptized & the Holy Spirit descended upon him & the Father caused his voice of love and approval to be heard. These three are always one. That is the secret of his people s salvation.) ) Notes on Greek Words, Phrases, and Constructions in 3:21, 22) Verse 21) � �� �����������, articular aor. infinitive of �������. It does not mean that Jesus was baptized after everybody else had received this sacrament.

There is no time element here. Wrong is the information given by Gram. N.T. (Bl.-Debr.), par. 404 (2) on p. 208. Correct is Gram. N.T., p. 1073; also Word Pictures, Vol. II, p. 43.) Verse 22) �P������, timeless aorist.) ) 3:23 38 The Genealogy of Jesus��182��) 23 Now Jesus himself, supposedly Joseph s) son, was about thirty years old when he) began (his ministry), being a son of Heli,) 24 son of Matthat, son of Levi, son of Melchi,) son of Jannai, son of Joseph,) 25 son of Mattathias, son of Amos, son of Nahum,) son of Esli, son of Naggai,) 26 son of Maath, son of Mattathias, son of Semein,) son of Josech, son of Joda,) 27 son of Joanan, son of Rhesa, son of Zerubbabel,) son of Shealtiel, son of Neri,) 28 son of Melchi, son of Addi, son of Cosam,) son of Elmadam, son of Er,) 29 son of Joshua, son of Eliezer, son of Jorim,) son of Matthat, son of Levi,) 30 son of Simeon, son of Judah, son of Joseph,) son of Jonam, son of Eliakim,) 31 son of Melea, son of Menna, son of Mattatha,) son of Nathan, son of David,) 32 son of Jesse, son of Obed, son of Boaz,) son of Salmon, son of Nahshon,) 33 son of Amminadab, son of Aram, son of Hezron,) son of Perez, son of Judah,) 34 son of Jacob, son of Isaac, son of Abraham,) son of Terah, son of Nahor,) 35 son of Serug, son of Reu, son of Peleg,) son of Eber, son of Shelah,) 36 son of Cainan, son of Arphaxad, son of Shem,) son of Noah, son of Lamech,) 37 son of Methuselah, son of Enoch, son of Jared,) son of Mahalaleel, son of Cainan,) 38 son of Enos, son of Seth, son of Adam,) son of God.) ) 23a.

Now Jesus himself, supposedly Joseph s son, was about thirty years old when he began (his ministry) & ) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.2.0|AUTODETECT|” In our study of 3:1, 2 it has already been shown that the theory according to which Jesus was about thirty years old in or about the latter part of a.d. 26 agrees with other biblical data 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.2.0|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 2) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.2.20|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.2.20|AUTODETECT|” John 2:20) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=4.4.47|AUTODETECT|” ). From ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=4.4.47|AUTODETECT|” Num. 4:47) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.41.46|AUTODETECT|” we learn that thirty years was the age at which the Levites began their service. It was also at that age that Joseph became prime minister of Egypt 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.41.46|AUTODETECT|” Gen. 41:46) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=10.5.4|AUTODETECT|” ), and that David became king 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=10.5.4|AUTODETECT|” II Sam. 5:4) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).��183�� It is not strange, therefore, that Jesus began at that age.) 1 16 2 8 0 0 What follows is a genealogy of Jesus:) 23b 38: & being a son of Heli,) son of Matthat, son of Levi, son of Melchi,) son of Jannai, son of Joseph,) ………………..) ………………..) son of Enos, son of Seth, son of Adam,) son of God.) Similarities Between Matthew s List and Luke s) 1. Matthew s first 14 names (Abraham to David) agree with Luke s.) 2. Shealtiel and Zerubbabel are found in both lists. See Hendriksen s Survey of the Bible, Grand Rapids, 1976, p. 136, for one of the many theories showing how it was possible for the two lists to coincide at this point and then to part again.) These are two of the main similarities.) Differences) 1. The great majority of the names in each list are absent from the other.) 2. Matthew s list Abraham to Jesus is much shorter than Luke s Jesus to Adam, son of God.

See N.T.C. on Matthew, pp. 105 130.) 3. Matthew skips more generations than does Luke. Between David and Shealtiel (inclusive) Matthew s genealogy contains 16 different names, Luke s 22. Between Shealtiel and Jesus (inclusive) Matthew mentions 13 names, Luke again 22.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.1.17|AUTODETECT|” 4. Matthew presents three lists of 2 � 7 names each, though to arrive at that figure one name has to be repeated. There are those who think that Luke is also operating with the figure 7. By including the names of Jesus, Joseph, and God a total of 77 (= 11 � 7) names results. Within this 77, other groupings of multiples of 7 are pointed out. It may be questioned, however, whether in the Third Gospel we should attach special significance to this phenomenon. Luke himself at least offers nothing that resembles ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.1.17|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 1:17) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 .) 1 16 2 8 0 0 5. Matthew presents a descending (from father to son) genealogy; Luke an ascending (from son to father) one.) 6. It is not strange that Matthew, written to win the Jews for Christ, begins his list with Abraham, nor that Luke, whose horizon is world-wide, ends with Adam, son of God; for Jesus, the Messiah, has significance for the entire human race, and that race is derived from God himself. It has no animal origin!) Does Luke present the genealogy of Joseph or of Mary (more precisely: the genealogy of Jesus through Joseph or the genealogy of Jesus through Mary; for brevity s sake, however, the shorter designation will be used)?) To increase interest in this question we here present it in the form of a debate:) Resolved: That the Genealogy Presented by Luke Is That of Joseph) A. Affirmative��184��) Mr. Chairman, honorable judges, worthy opponent, and all other friends of biblical investigation:) I find it strange that the view according to which Luke presents a genealogy of Mary still finds defenders.

Why, Mary s name is not even mentioned in the list! Is it at all reasonable to assume that a person would present a genealogy without even mentioning the name of the one person who apart from Jesus himself should be considered the most important of all?) Besides, the view that Luke presents Mary s genealogy was unknown in early times. It did not come into prominence until about the date of the discovery of America.��185�� This should cause no surprise because the very language Luke uses clearly indicates that he is thinking not of Mary but of Joseph, whose name heads the list. Luke writes, Jesus was & a son & of Joseph, son of Heli [or Eli], etc. In all likelihood Joseph obtained this genealogy from a Jewish source. Jews were not in the habit of tracing the mother s genealogy, only the father s.) It is altogether natural to assume that Luke, having declared that Joseph was the reputed father of Jesus, would now proceed to trace Joseph s descent.

In the eye of the law Jesus was, after all, the heir of Joseph, and that is what counted among the Jews.) If Luke were giving the genealogy of Mary, the word son would be used in a twofold sense: Jesus, son, that is, grandson (through Mary) of Heli, who was son of Matthat. That surely would be very confusing.) What is perhaps my strongest argument��186�� is this, that in 1:27 Luke calls attention to the Davidic descent not of Mary but of Joseph. It is therefore natural to conclude that the genealogy he inserts in his book is also that of Joseph, not that of Mary.) B. Negative��187��) Mr. President, noble referees, friendly adversary, and all those interested in scriptural research:) If anything is clear, it is surely this, that Matthew intends his Gospel to be read especially by the Jews. For them indeed the descent of Joseph (Jesus legal father) from David and from Abraham was most important.

Luke, on the other hand, writes for Gentiles; one might say, for the whole world. What interested him and his readers was the meaning of Jesus for the human race. In presenting his genealogy he wanted to show that Jesus belonged indeed to that race. How? By being the offspring of Joseph? If there is anything Luke stresses it is surely this, that Jesus was not in any physical sense the offspring of Joseph.

He was virgin born. This evangelist was not at all afraid, therefore, that his readers would understand him to mean that the genealogical tree he presents is that of Joseph. In 1:34, 35, and in fact throughout, had he not taken the definite position that, physically speaking, Jesus was solely the son of Mary, that Joseph had nothing whatever to do with the child s conception? And is it not true that it is Luke who tells the nativity story from the aspect of Mary s experiences?) To make this point doubly clear, even at the very beginning of the genealogy Luke states that only in the imagination of the people was Jesus the son of Joseph. He writes, Jesus himself, supposedly Joseph s son. What he means is that people were wrong in regarding Joseph as the actual father of Jesus.

Joseph was only Jesus suppositional father; hence, in any physical sense not his father at all. That being granted, what sense would it make to append to that statement a lengthy genealogy of the man whom Luke has just now described as being only supposedly, but not at all really, the father of Jesus?) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.1.32|AUTODETECT|” It is true that in showing why Joseph had to be registered in Bethlehem, Luke indicates that carpenter s descent from David. Does this prove that the genealogy is also necessarily Joseph s? Not at all. With more right for the matter discussed is more pertinent to the issue one could defend the Mary genealogy theory by pointing to ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.1.32|AUTODETECT|” Luke 1:32) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.1.69|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.1.69|AUTODETECT|” 69) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 , where Luke incorporates material in which Mary s descent from David is clearly implied.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.1.16|AUTODETECT|” Are the advocates of the Joseph genealogy forgetting that if their theory were true Joseph would have two fathers? According to ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.1.16|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 1:16) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.3.23|AUTODETECT|” his father would be Jacob; according to ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.3.23|AUTODETECT|” Luke 3:23) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 Heli. It is really comical to see how proponents of the Joseph theory try to wriggle out of this difficulty: on this point there surely is no unanimity among them.) 1 9 2 8 0 0 All difficulties, however, disappear when it is granted that, in harmony with the entire plan and purpose of each Gospel, Matthew gives us the genealogy of Joseph, Luke that of Mary.) C. Rebuttal for the Affirmative) Has it not become clear that my opponent s position is weak? He has left some of my arguments entirely untouched! We still do not know how he handles the objection that the Jews were used to tracing the father s family tree, not the mother s. Apparently he doesn t know how to answer that one.) Also, does he not realize, as I pointed out earlier, that if Luke is here presenting Mary s genealogy, he must be using the word son in a twofold sense? In that case Jesus must have been the grandson (through his mother Mary) of Heli, who was the son of Matthat, etc.

What inconsistency!) There is another very important argument which my opponent must have found embarrassing; at least he conveniently forgot to say anything about it. It is the fact that the notion that this is Mary s genealogy was never heard of in early days.) I repeat, therefore, that the affirmative position is correct, namely, that the genealogy presented by Luke is that of Joseph. ) D. Rebuttal for the Negative) My friends, did you notice that my honored adversary has made himself guilty of the very error of which he accuses me? In not a single case did he himself, in what was supposed to be his rebuttal, answer my arguments.) I will try to do better with respect to his latest observations:) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=4.27.8|AUTODETECT|” First, then, it is precarious to state that tracing Mary s genealogy would have been impossible among the Jews. There are exceptions to almost every rule. When a father dies, his sons inherit the estate. Does this mean, then, that the daughters are absolutely excluded? ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=4.27.8|AUTODETECT|” Num. 27:8) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 warns us against taking that position. In the present case one is also dealing with a very special case, namely, with a child who, physically speaking, had no human father at all. In such a case normal or usual procedure simply stops.) 1 1 2 8 0 0 Secondly, as to the use of the word son in more than one sense, that is true whether the list is Joseph s or Mary s. There are gaps in these genealogies no matter how they are intepreted. See N.T.C. on Matthew, pp. 119, 124. In several cases the son must have been grandson or even great-grandson, for even Luke s list, if interpreted in the sense that in every case son must mean immediate male descendant, would be too short to reach all the way back from Jesus to Adam. Besides, in the item Seth son of Adam, son of God, the word son cannot have the same meaning both times.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.2.4|AUTODETECT|” Thirdly, as to the objection that the theory that this is Mary s genealogy is of relatively recent origin, how does that harmonize with the fact that, even in the Talmud, Mary is called the daughter of Heli, which is correct only if Luke s genealogy is interpreted as referring to Mary s and not to Joseph s family tree?��188�� L. M. Sweet, in his article Genealogy of Jesus Christ, The, I.S.B.E., Vol. II, p. 1198, speaks of the early tradition of Mary s Davidic origin. The Sinaitic-Syriac MS. renders ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.2.4|AUTODETECT|” Luke 2:4) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 as follows: They [both Joseph and Mary] were of the house and lineage of David. ) 1 2 2 8 0 0 Here ends the debate. All in all it would seem that it was won by the negative, in the sense that it is not true that the genealogy presented by Luke (3:23 38) is necessarily that of Joseph. On the contrary, it is probably that of Mary.��189��) ) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.3.23-42.3.38|AUTODETECT|” Practical Lessons Derived from ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.3.23-42.3.38|AUTODETECT|” Luke 3:23 38) 1 1 2 8 0 0 Verse 23) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.2.52|AUTODETECT|” Jesus & was about thirty years old when he began (his ministry). This does not mean that Jesus did nothing before that time. On the contrary, see ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.2.52|AUTODETECT|” Luke 2:52) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.9.4|AUTODETECT|” . He was definitely already a blessing long before he reached the age of 30. But about the time when he reached that age he began his active ministry, his public task. The trouble with many people is that they never actually begin their ministry of exercising the priesthood of believers. They simply drift, are passive. Meanwhile the world is perishing! A passage which we should repeat to ourselves again and again is ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.9.4|AUTODETECT|” John 9:4) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 , While it is day we must work.& Night is approaching when no man can work. ) 1 1 2 8 0 0 Verses 23 38) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.3.16|AUTODETECT|” He [was] a son of Heli & son of Adam & son of God. Rightly considered, this genealogy not only teaches us how very close Jesus is to mankind but also how close, in a certain sense, mankind is to God. We refer to the closeness described in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.3.16|AUTODETECT|” John 3:16) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 , the passage that teaches the God so loved the world doctrine. The salvation promised in that passage is for whoever believes in God s only-begotten Son. Salvation is for them alone. It is for them all.) 1 14 2 8 0 0 ) Note on the Construction and Translation of Verse 23) The construction of this passage, as many see it, justifies the translation, Jesus, when he began his ministry, was about thirty years of age, being the son (as was supposed) of Joseph, the son of Heli& (R.S.V. and, with slight variations, many others).) This rendering has the merit of adhering closely to the order of the words in the original.) Objections) a. In all other cases the father s (grandfather s) name is preceded by ���; this is not true with respect to the name Joseph. This fact is ignored in the translation.) b. This rendering also ignores the fact that Luke would be giving a lengthy genealogy of the very man whom he describes as only supposedly the father of Jesus; the expression as was supposed would make the entire genealogy a matter of conjecture.) c. It overlooks the fact that in his nativity account Luke not only teaches but strongly emphasizes Christ s virgin birth. On the other hand, if this is supposed to be Joseph s legal line of ascent, does it not, even at the very beginning, clash with the genealogy presented by Matthew?) In one way or another the following translations avoid these weaknesses:) And he himself Jesus when beginning was about thirty years old, being a son (as was supposed of Joseph) of Heli & (Lenski).) And he himself, Jesus, when he began, was about thirty years old, being a son, as was supposed of Joseph, of Heli & (Greijdanus).) Jesus Himself, supposedly Joseph s son, began his ministry at about thirty, being a descendant of Heli & (Berkeley Version).) Now Jesus himself, supposedly Joseph s son, was about thirty years old when he began (his ministry), being a son of Heli & (my rendering).) Summary of Chapter 3) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.40.3|AUTODETECT|” The Ministry of John the Baptist (verses 1 20). In the fifteenth year of the reign of Tiberius Caesar and during the highpriesthood of Annas and Caiaphas, Zechariah s son John, at God s command, began to address great multitudes. They came to him in the wilderness of Judea. In fulfilment of the prophecy of ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.40.3|AUTODETECT|” Isa. 40:3) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 f. John courageously proclaimed the need of wholehearted conversion, so that the Lord, as King of glory, might ride triumphantly into their hearts and lives. Boldly he described the crowds as offspring of vipers. He demanded that they, though Jews, should be baptized, thereby acknowledging their need of spiritual cleansing, and resolving by God s grace to live transformed lives. Too long had they been taking refuge in the slogan, We are Abraham s children. John said, I tell you that God is able to raise up children for Abraham out of these stones here.

He urged them to bear good fruits, threatening that otherwise they would be cut down as a tree and thrown into the fire. When some asked him, What shall we do? he told them to start sharing their possessions with those in need. He admonished greedy tax-collectors to stop collecting more than the legal amount of tax, and ruthless soldiers to cease being cruel and to be content with their wages. In other words, he exhorted all to practice genuine love. In no uncertain terms he denied being the Christ. Instead he pointed to the real Savior, who, said he, will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and with fire.

He even rebuked the tetrarch Herod Antipas, who had run off with and married Herodias, his brother s wife. The result was that Herod locked John up in prison.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.1.29|AUTODETECT|” The Baptism of Jesus (verses 21, 22). At the height of John s preaching and baptizing activity he baptized Jesus, who, by submitting to this sacrament, publicly declared that he was taking upon himself the sin of the world 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.1.29|AUTODETECT|” John 1:29) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). While the Son was being baptized (probably immediately afterward), the Holy Spirit descended upon him in the form of a dove, and the Father declared, Thou art my Son, the Beloved; with thee I am well pleased. ) 1 13 2 8 0 0 The Genealogy of Jesus (verses 23 38). The family tree introduced by Luke at this point does not, as in Matthew, proceed from father to son, but from son to father, until it finally arrives at Adam, the son of God. It indicates that Jesus is, in a sense, the Savior of the world, his gracious invitation being extended to all, his grace being sufficient for all, and all who accept him by a genuine faith being actually saved. Is this the genealogy of Jesus through Mary, or through Joseph? For the answer see the debate on pp. 222 225.) ) ) ) 161 Or: Then he [John] was saying.) 162 Or: tunics.) 163 More literally: Do not shake people down. ) 164 So also Geldenhuys, op. cit., p. 42, footnote 1.) N.T.C. W.

Hendriksen, New Testament Commentary) 165 L. H. Grollenberg, op. cit., p. 136.) N.T.C. W. Hendriksen, New Testament Commentary) 166) Arguments in favor of theory (b):) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.3.1|AUTODETECT|” (1) The starting point for Luke s fifteenth year 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.3.1|AUTODETECT|” Luke 3:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ) must be a.d. 14, and not an earlier date, for the princeps never dated his reign from the time when the great Augustus was still alive, nor do other sources for that era. ) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.19.12|AUTODETECT|” (2) The indirect threat of the Jews to appeal to Caesar against Pilate 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.19.12|AUTODETECT|” John 19:12) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ) would not have been likely before the fall of the anti-Semite Sejanus in October of the year a.d. 31. The pro-Jewish policy of Tiberius did not begin until after that date. Therefore a.d. 30 cannot be correct as the date of Christ s crucifixion; neither can a.d. 26 be correct as the date for the beginning of John s ministry. These dates are too early.) 1 2 2 8 0 0 (3) Eusebius (Chronicon ii, ed. Migne, p. 535) states that Christ suffered in the 19th year of the reign of Tiberius, i.e., in a.d. 33. This also makes the date for the beginning of John s ministry (and the date for the beginning of Christ s ministry) considerably later than a.d. 26.) This is only a summary. For the argument fully stated see P. L. Maier, Pontius Pilate, Garden City, N.Y., 1968, pp. 364, 365; also that author s article Sejanus, Pilate, and the Date of the Crucifixion, Church History XXXVII (March, 1968), pp. 3 13.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.3.1|AUTODETECT|” Regardless of whether or not one is convinced by these arguments, it must be admitted that Maier s book on Pilate is very informative and interesting. The professor of Ancient History at Western Michigan University has already written much that is definitely worthwhile. Note, for example, his splendid article, The Empty Tomb as History, Christianity Today, Vol. XIX, No. 13 (March 28, 1975). And as to ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.3.1|AUTODETECT|” Luke 3:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.3.2|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.3.2|AUTODETECT|” 2) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 , etc., the reader should by all means study what Maier himself says about it, and not depend solely on my attempt to summarize his views. Read also the fine article by H. H. Rowdon, The Historical and Political Background and Chronology of the New Testament in A New Testament Commentary, by C. D. Howley, F. F. Bruce, H. L. Ellison, eds., Grand Rapids, 1969, pp. 57 66. That article leans toward Maier s view, that is, in the direction of theory (b).) 1 6 2 8 0 0 The following counter-arguments, however, deserve consideration:) Anent (1). We get nowhere by considering how Tiberius himself counted the years of his reign or how these years were generally counted. What matters is how Luke counted them. Thus Greijdanus, who, as is pointed out in the text, believes that Luke was thinking of actual, not merely formal, years of reign, as his reference to Annas-Caiaphas clearly indicates.) Anent (2). In view of the well-known suspicious character of Tiberius, who did not refrain from putting to death anyone who was reported to be aiming to seize power, the argument with respect to the emperor s change of policy from anti-Jewish to pro-Jewish is rather weak. See the article on Tiberius in Encyclopaedia Britannica, 1969, Vol. 21, pp. 1105, 1106, and consult the works mentioned in the Bibliography at the close of that article.) Anent (3).

There is in existence the much earlier testimony of Tertullian (Against Marcion I.xv), that the Lord has been revealed since the twelfth year of Tiberius Caesar. This testimony, which, as generally interpreted, refers to Jesus baptism and the beginning of his public ministry, when he was indeed revealed to the people, harmonizes beautifully with theory (a), but cannot be reconciled with theory (b).) 167 S. Greijdanus, Kommentaar, Vol. I, p. 149. So also Lenski, op. cit., p. 109; and see W. Manson, op. cit., p. 24.) 168 The Synoptic Gospels (The Expositor s Greek Testament, Vol.

I, the section on Luke, pp. 458 651 of that volume), Grand Rapids, no date, p. 480. Hereafter A. B. Bruce, op. cit., indicates this particular work.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.40.3|AUTODETECT|” 169 In the Gospels and in the Septuagint text the phrase in the wilderness modifies of one crying, and not make ready, as it does in the masoretic accentuation of the Hebrew text of ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.40.3|AUTODETECT|” Isa. 40:3) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 , the latter construction being also supported by the parallelism: in the wilderness make ready and make straight in the desert. However, this difference between the Gospels and the Hebrew text is unimportant, for it is natural to assume that the wilderness crier, as the mouthpiece of the One who sent him, wants a way to be cleared in the wilderness.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=2.13.21|AUTODETECT|” 170 The fact that what is said of Jehovah in the Old Testament is referred to Christ in the New should cause no surprise. For similar instances of this transition from Jehovah to Christ see ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=2.13.21|AUTODETECT|” Exod. 13:21) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.10.4|AUTODETECT|” , cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.10.4|AUTODETECT|” I Cor. 10:4) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.68.18|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.68.18|AUTODETECT|” Ps. 68:18) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.4.8|AUTODETECT|” , cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.4.8|AUTODETECT|” Eph. 4:8) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.102.25-19.102.27|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.102.25-19.102.27|AUTODETECT|” Ps. 102:25 27) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.1.10-58.1.12|AUTODETECT|” , cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.1.10-58.1.12|AUTODETECT|” Heb. 1:10 12) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.6.1|AUTODETECT|” ; and ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.6.1|AUTODETECT|” Isa. 6:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.12.41|AUTODETECT|” , cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.12.41|AUTODETECT|” John 12:41) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 . It is in Immanuel that Jehovah comes to dwell with his people.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.3.10|AUTODETECT|” 171 The only variations are: (a) In verse 8 Luke uses the plural (fruits) where Matthew (also verse 8) has the singular (fruit); but unless the reference is distinctly to different kinds of fruit, which does not seem to be the case here, the English rendering fruit is correct in either case; (b) in verse 8 Luke has and do not begin to say, while Matthew s parallel (verse 9) is and do not presume to say ; (c) in verse 9 Luke s extra conjunction (kai) increases by a trifle the justification for beginning the translation of that sentence with And 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.3.10|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 3:10) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 lacks this kai); and (d), the greatest difference of all, Luke writes, He [John] therefore was saying to the crowds coming out to be baptized by him (verse 7), while Matthew s parallel (verse 7) reads, But when he saw many of the Pharisees and Sadducees coming for baptism he said to them.& ) 1 7 2 8 0 0 172 Note forward position of $��.) 173 Or: must; so also in verses 12 and 14.) 174 In this connection much can be learned from W. and P. Paddock, Hungry Nations, Boston and Toronto, 1964. These authors, experienced in this field, point out that so-called help is often wasted because those charged with helping the hungry nations forget that the latter must be shown how to carry forward their own development based on their own resources.) 175 Notes on Greek words, phrases, and constructions in 3:1 20 begin on page 214.) 176 Or: in thee I take delight.) 177 Korte Verklaring, p. 98. And did not even Turrettin say that Jesus took baptism vicariously ? The quotation occurs in R. L.

Dabney, op. cit., p. 763.) 178 On the difference between ����� and �����, and their respective derivatives, see N.T.C. on John, Vol. II, pp. 494 500.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.3.17|AUTODETECT|” 179 This is an excellent example of the timeless aorist. See Gram. N.T., p. 837; thus also in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.3.17|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 3:17) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.17.5|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.17.5|AUTODETECT|” 17:5) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.1.11|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.1.11|AUTODETECT|” Mark 1:11) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 .) 1 4 2 8 0 0 180 On the entire subject of Christ s baptism read also the following: A. B. Bruce, The Baptism of Jesus, Exp, 5th ser., 7 (1898), pp. 187 201; and W. E. Bundy, The Meaning of Jesus Baptism, JR, 7 (1927), pp. 56 71.) 181 Notes on Greek words, phrases, and constructions in 3:21, 22 begin on page 220.) Gram. N.T. (Bl.-Debr.) F. Blass and A. DeBrunner, A Greek Grammar of the New Testament and Other Early Christian Literature) Gram. N.T. A. T. Robertson, Grammar of the Greek New Testament in the Light of Historical Research) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.1.1-40.1.17|AUTODETECT|” 182 Though ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.1.1-40.1.17|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 1:1 17) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 also has a genealogy of Jesus, the two (Matthew s and Luke s) are parallel only in a loose sense and to a limited extent, as the explanation will indicate.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=26.1.1|AUTODETECT|” 183 A. St�ger, op. cit., p. 75, even adds that it was at the age of thirty that Ezekiel was called to be a prophet, but that interpretation of ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=26.1.1|AUTODETECT|” Ezek. 1:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 is questionable. And cf. S.BK., Vol. II, p. 155.) 1 9 2 8 0 0 184 Authors of commentaries favoring this position are, among others, A. B. Bruce, C. R. Erdman, W. J.

Harrington, A. Plummer (for titles see Bibliography); exact references to the works of others will be given in the footnotes of this debate. In the commentaries consult the section on Matthew s genealogy and on Luke s.) 185 For this argument see Howley, Bruce, Ellison, op. cit., p. 142.) 186 See J. G. Machen, The Virgin Birth of Christ, New York and London, 1930, p. 204.) 187 Authors of commentaries and related works in which the Mary theory is favored are, among others, R. C.

Foster, N. Geldenhuys, F. Godet, S. Greijdanus, R. C. H.

Lenski, A. T. Robertson (Word Pictures, Vol. II). Here also, see Bibliography for titles.) 188 See Haghigha 77.4.) I.S.B.E. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia) 189 A note on the construction and translation of verse 23 appears on page 226.) R.S.V.

Revised Standard Version) )