Luke 3:18
And many other things in his exhortation preached he unto the people.
Original Language Analysis
Πολλὰ
many
G4183
Πολλὰ
many
Strong's:
G4183
Word #:
1 of 9
(singular) much (in any respect) or (plural) many; neuter (singular) as adverbial, largely; neuter (plural) as adverb or noun often, mostly, largely
μὲν
G3303
μὲν
Strong's:
G3303
Word #:
2 of 9
properly, indicative of affirmation or concession (in fact); usually followed by a contrasted clause with g1161 (this one, the former, etc.)
οὖν
G3767
καὶ
And
G2532
καὶ
And
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
4 of 9
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
παρακαλῶν
in his exhortation
G3870
παρακαλῶν
in his exhortation
Strong's:
G3870
Word #:
6 of 9
to call near, i.e., invite, invoke (by imploration, hortation or consolation)
εὐηγγελίζετο
preached
G2097
εὐηγγελίζετο
preached
Strong's:
G2097
Word #:
7 of 9
to announce good news ("evangelize") especially the gospel
Historical Context
John's wilderness ministry lasted approximately six months to a year before Jesus began public ministry. His varied exhortations addressed different groups (crowds, tax collectors, soldiers) with specific applications while maintaining consistent gospel core. Luke's summary indicates extensive ministry beyond brief recorded samples.
Questions for Reflection
- How does Old Testament gospel preaching relate to New Testament evangelism?
- What does varied exhortation to different audiences teach about applying unchanging truth?
- Why is both warning (judgment) and encouragement (salvation) essential to gospel proclamation?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
Luke's summary—'many other things in his exhortation preached he unto the people'—indicates John's ministry extended beyond recorded material. The word 'exhortation' (Greek 'parakaleo̱n') means encouraging, warning, and urging—comprehensive pastoral ministry. That he 'preached...the gospel' (Greek 'euangelizeto') shows Old Testament preaching, like New Testament, centered on good news of salvation. This demonstrates gospel proclamation isn't limited to post-resurrection preaching but characterized all faithful biblical ministry. John's gospel emphasized repentance, coming judgment, and the Messiah who would save and judge. His varied exhortations model that faithful preaching applies eternal truth to diverse situations and audiences.