Luke 3:12
Then came also publicans to be baptized, and said unto him, Master, what shall we do?
Original Language Analysis
ἦλθον
came
G2064
ἦλθον
came
Strong's:
G2064
Word #:
1 of 12
to come or go (in a great variety of applications, literally and figuratively)
καὶ
also
G2532
καὶ
also
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
3 of 12
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
βαπτισθῆναι
to be baptized
G907
βαπτισθῆναι
to be baptized
Strong's:
G907
Word #:
5 of 12
to immerse, submerge; to make whelmed (i.e., fully wet); used only (in the new testament) of ceremonial ablution, especially (technically) of the ordi
καὶ
also
G2532
καὶ
also
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
6 of 12
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
πρὸς
unto
G4314
πρὸς
unto
Strong's:
G4314
Word #:
8 of 12
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,
αὐτόν
him
G846
αὐτόν
him
Strong's:
G846
Word #:
9 of 12
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
Historical Context
Jewish tax collectors (publicans) were despised as traitors working for Rome and notorious for extortion and corruption. That they sought baptism despite public shame demonstrates powerful conviction. Their inclusion among the repentant challenged Jewish exclusivism and social hierarchies.
Questions for Reflection
- What does the publicans' seeking baptism teach about who can receive God's grace?
- How does the gospel break down social barriers and unite diverse people?
- Why is recognizing one's specific sins important in genuine repentance?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
That 'publicans also came to be baptized' demonstrates the gospel's reach to despised sinners. Tax collectors, considered traitors collaborating with Rome and known for extortion, seeking baptism shows that no one is beyond God's grace. Their coming 'also' (Greek 'kai') indicates they joined the general multitudes, showing the gospel creates community transcending social barriers. Their question (v12) shows awareness of their specific sins and need for particular guidance. The inclusion of publicans foreshadows Jesus's ministry among sinners (Luke 5:27-32; 15:1-2; 19:1-10) and demonstrates that conviction of sin overcomes social stigma to seek repentance.