Luke 3:10
And the people asked him, saying, What shall we do then?
Original Language Analysis
Καὶ
And
G2532
Καὶ
And
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
1 of 9
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
αὐτὸν
him
G846
αὐτὸν
him
Strong's:
G846
Word #:
3 of 9
the reflexive pronoun self, used (alone or in the comparative g1438) of the third person, and (with the proper personal pronoun) of the other persons
οἱ
G3588
οἱ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
4 of 9
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
ὄχλοι
the people
G3793
ὄχλοι
the people
Strong's:
G3793
Word #:
5 of 9
a throng (as borne along); by implication, the rabble; by extension, a class of people; figuratively, a riot
λέγοντες
saying
G3004
λέγοντες
saying
Strong's:
G3004
Word #:
6 of 9
properly, to "lay" forth, i.e., (figuratively) relate (in words (usually of systematic or set discourse; whereas g2036 and g5346 generally refer to an
Τί
What
G5101
Τί
What
Strong's:
G5101
Word #:
7 of 9
an interrogative pronoun, who, which or what (in direct or indirect questions)
Cross References
Acts 2:37Now when they heard this, they were pricked in their heart, and said unto Peter and to the rest of the apostles, Men and brethren, what shall we do?Luke 3:14And the soldiers likewise demanded of him, saying, And what shall we do? And he said unto them, Do violence to no man, neither accuse any falsely; and be content with your wages.Acts 16:30And brought them out, and said, Sirs, what must I do to be saved?Luke 3:8Bring forth therefore fruits worthy of repentance, and begin not to say within yourselves, We have Abraham to our father: for I say unto you, That God is able of these stones to raise up children unto Abraham.
Historical Context
John's preaching produced such conviction that crowds sought specific application. Their question demonstrates that effective preaching doesn't merely inform but moves hearers to action. The variety of questioners (multitudes, tax collectors, soldiers) shows truth's application varies by circumstance while principle remains constant.
Questions for Reflection
- How does genuine conviction of sin produce desire for practical change?
- Why is seeking specific application ('What shall we do?') important after hearing truth?
- What does the multitudes' question teach about the relationship between belief and behavior?
Related Resources
Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.
Analysis & Commentary
The multitudes' question 'What shall we do then?' demonstrates that genuine conviction produces desire for practical obedience. Their question follows John's warning of judgment and call to repentance, showing the appropriate response to conviction is seeking how to change. The plural 'we' indicates corporate responsibility and community reformation. This question models the proper sequence: hearing truth, conviction of sin, desire for transformation, seeking practical application. John's answer (v11) will emphasize social justice and compassion, showing that repentance produces visible fruit in relationships and behavior. True conversion always asks 'What must I do?' (Acts 2:37; 16:30).