Luke 3:12

Authorized King James Version

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

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
ἦλθον
came
to come or go (in a great variety of applications, literally and figuratively)
#2
δὲ
Then
but, and, etc
#3
καὶ
also
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
#4
τελῶναι
publicans
a tax-farmer, i.e., collector of public revenue
#5
βαπτισθῆναι
to be baptized
to immerse, submerge; to make whelmed (i.e., fully wet); used only (in the new testament) of ceremonial ablution, especially (technically) of the ordi
#6
καὶ
also
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
#7
εἶπον
said
to speak or say (by word or writing)
#8
πρὸς
unto
a preposition of direction; forward to, i.e., toward (with the genitive case, the side of, i.e., pertaining to; with the dative case, by the side of,
#9
αὐτόν
him
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
#10
Διδάσκαλε
Master
an instructor (genitive case or specially)
#11
τί
what
an interrogative pronoun, who, which or what (in direct or indirect questions)
#12
ποιήσομεν
shall we do
to make or do (in a very wide application, more or less direct)

Analysis

Within the broader context of Luke, this passage highlights salvation through simile or metaphorical language. The theological weight of divine revelation connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine revelation, contributing to our understanding of God's nature and relationship with humanity. This verse contributes to the book's overall argument by building upon previous themes while advancing the overall message of Luke.

Historical Context

This passage must be understood within the political and social structures of the biblical period. The author writes to address believers seeking to understand God's will and purposes, making the emphasis on salvation particularly relevant. Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.

Questions for Reflection

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