New International Version Even tax collectors came to be baptized. “Teacher,” they asked, “what should we do?” New Living Translation Even corrupt tax collectors came to be baptized and asked, “Teacher, what should we do?” English Standard Version Tax collectors also came to be baptized and said to him, “Teacher, what shall we do?” Berean Standard Bible Even tax collectors came to be baptized. “Teacher,” they asked, “what should we do?” Berean Literal Bible And tax collectors also came to be baptized, and they said to him, “Teacher, what shall we do?” King James Bible Then came also publicans to be baptized, and said unto him, Master, what shall we do? New King James Version Then tax collectors also came to be baptized, and said to him, “Teacher, what shall we do?” New American Standard Bible Now even tax collectors came to be baptized, and they said to him, “Teacher, what are we to do?” NASB 1995 And some tax collectors also came to be baptized, and they said to him, “Teacher, what shall we do?” NASB 1977 And some tax-gatherers also came to be baptized, and they said to him, “Teacher, what shall we do?” Legacy Standard Bible And tax collectors also came to be baptized, and they said to him, “Teacher, what should we do?” Amplified Bible Even some tax collectors came to be baptized, and they asked, “Teacher, what are we to do?” Berean Annotated Bible Even tax collectors came to be baptized (submerged). “Teacher {Didaskale}, they asked, “what should we do? Christian Standard Bible Tax collectors also came to be baptized, and they asked him, “Teacher, what should we do? ” Holman Christian Standard Bible Tax collectors also came to be baptized, and they asked him, “Teacher, what should we do?” American Standard Version And there came also publicans to be baptized, and they said unto him, Teacher, what must we do? Contemporary English Version When tax collectors came to be baptized, they asked John, "Teacher, what should we do?" English Revised Version And there came also publicans to be baptized, and they said unto him, Master, what must we do? GOD'S WORD® Translation Some tax collectors came to be baptized. They asked him, "Teacher, what should we do?" Good News Translation Some tax collectors came to be baptized, and they asked him, "Teacher, what are we to do?" International Standard Version Even some tax collectors came to be baptized. They asked him, "Teacher, what should we do?" NET Bible Tax collectors also came to be baptized, and they said to him, "Teacher, what should we do?" New Heart English Bible Tax collectors also came to be baptized, and they said to him, "Teacher, what must we do?" Webster's Bible Translation Then came also publicans to be baptized, and said to him, Master, what shall we do? Weymouth New Testament There came also a party of tax-gatherers to be baptized, and they asked him, "Rabbi, what are we to do?" Majority Text Translations Majority Standard BibleEven tax collectors came to be baptized. “Teacher,” they asked, “what should we do?” World English Bible Tax collectors also came to be baptized, and they said to him, “Teacher, what must we do?” Literal Translations Literal Standard VersionAnd there also came tax collectors to be immersed, and they said to him, “Teacher, what will we do?” Berean Literal Bible And tax collectors also came to be baptized, and they said to him, “Teacher, what shall we do?” Young's Literal Translation And there came also tax-gatherers to be baptised, and they said unto him, 'Teacher, what shall we do?' Smith's Literal Translation And publicans came to be immersed, and said to him, Teacher, what shall we do? Catholic Translations Douay-Rheims BibleAnd the publicans also came to be baptized, and said to him: Master, what shall we do? Catholic Public Domain Version Now the tax collectors also came to be baptized, and they said to him, “Teacher, what should we do?” New American Bible Even tax collectors came to be baptized and they said to him, “Teacher, what should we do?” New Revised Standard Version Even tax collectors came to be baptized, and they asked him, “Teacher, what should we do?” Translations from Aramaic Lamsa BibleAnd there came also publicans to be baptized, and they said to him, Teacher, what shall we do? Aramaic Bible in Plain English And Tax Collectors came also to be baptized, and they were saying to him, “Teacher, what shall we do?” NT Translations Anderson New TestamentAnd the publicans also came to be immersed, and they said to him: Teacher, what shall we do? Godbey New Testament And the publicans came also to be baptized, and said to him; Teacher, what shall we do! Haweis New Testament Then came also the farmers of the taxes to be baptised, and they said unto him, Master, what shall we do? Mace New Testament the Publicans likewise came to be baptized, and said to him, master, how are we to act? Weymouth New Testament There came also a party of tax-gatherers to be baptized, and they asked him, "Rabbi, what are we to do?" Worrell New Testament And there came also tax-collectors to be immersed, and they said to him, "Teacher, what shall we do?" Worsley New Testament And there came publicans to be baptized, and said unto him, Master, what shall we do? Additional Translations ... Audio Bible (Voice ▾ Musical ▾) Context The Mission of John the Baptist…11John replied, “Whoever has two tunics should share with him who has none, and whoever has food should do the same.” 12 Even tax collectors came to be baptized. “Teacher,” they asked, “what should we do?” 13“Collect no more than you are authorized,” he answered.… Cross References Even tax collectors came to be baptized. Luke 7:29-30 All the people who heard this, even the tax collectors, acknowledged God’s justice. For they had received the baptism of John. / But the Pharisees and experts in the law rejected God’s purpose for themselves, because they had not been baptized by John. Matthew 21:31-32 Which of the two did the will of his father?” “The first,” they answered. Jesus said to them, “Truly I tell you, the tax collectors and prostitutes are entering the kingdom of God before you. / For John came to you in the way of righteousness, and you did not believe him, but the tax collectors and prostitutes did. And even after you saw this, you did not repent and believe him. Matthew 3:5-6 People went out to him from Jerusalem and all Judea and the whole region around the Jordan. / Confessing their sins, they were baptized by him in the Jordan River. “Teacher,” they asked, Luke 20:21 “Teacher,” they inquired, “we know that You speak and teach correctly. You show no partiality but teach the way of God in accordance with the truth. Mark 12:14 “Teacher,” they said, “we know that You are honest and seek favor from no one. Indeed, You are impartial and teach the way of God in accordance with the truth. Is it lawful to pay taxes to Caesar or not? Should we pay them or not?” Luke 12:13 Someone in the crowd said to Him, “Teacher, tell my brother to divide the inheritance with me.” “what should we do?” Acts 2:37-38 When the people heard this, they were cut to the heart and asked Peter and the other apostles, “Brothers, what shall we do?” / Peter replied, “Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins, and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. Acts 16:30-31 Then he brought them out and asked, “Sirs, what must I do to be saved?” / They replied, “Believe in the Lord Jesus and you will be saved, you and your household.” John 6:28-29 Then they inquired, “What must we do to perform the works of God?” / Jesus replied, “The work of God is this: to believe in the One He has sent.” Matthew 5:46-47 If you love those who love you, what reward will you get? Do not even tax collectors do the same? / And if you greet only your brothers, what are you doing more than others? Do not even Gentiles do the same? Mark 2:15-17 While Jesus was dining at Levi’s house, many tax collectors and sinners were eating with Him and His disciples—for there were many who followed Him. / When the scribes who were Pharisees saw Jesus eating with these people, they asked His disciples, “Why does He eat with tax collectors and sinners?” / On hearing this, Jesus told them, “It is not the healthy who need a doctor, but the sick. I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners.” Luke 5:29-32 Then Levi hosted a great banquet for Jesus at his house. A large crowd of tax collectors was there, along with others who were eating with them. / But the Pharisees and their scribes complained to Jesus’ disciples, “Why do you eat and drink with tax collectors and sinners?” / Jesus answered, “It is not the healthy who need a doctor, but the sick. … Matthew 9:10-13 Later, as Jesus was dining at Matthew’s house, many tax collectors and sinners came and ate with Him and His disciples. / When the Pharisees saw this, they asked His disciples, “Why does your Teacher eat with tax collectors and sinners?” / On hearing this, Jesus said, “It is not the healthy who need a doctor, but the sick. … Luke 19:1-10 Then Jesus entered Jericho and was passing through. / And there was a man named Zacchaeus, a chief tax collector, who was very wealthy. / He was trying to see who Jesus was, but could not see over the crowd because he was small in stature. … Acts 10:34-35 Then Peter began to speak: “I now truly understand that God does not show favoritism, / but welcomes those from every nation who fear Him and do what is right. Romans 13:6-7 This is also why you pay taxes. For the authorities are God’s servants, who devote themselves to their work. / Pay everyone what you owe him: taxes to whom taxes are due, revenue to whom revenue is due, respect to whom respect is due, honor to whom honor is due. Treasury of Scripture Then came also publicans to be baptized, and said to him, Master, what shall we do? Luke 7:29 And all the people that heard him, and the publicans, justified God, being baptized with the baptism of John. Luke 15:1,2 Then drew near unto him all the publicans and sinners for to hear him… Luke 18:13 And the publican, standing afar off, would not lift up so much as his eyes unto heaven, but smote upon his breast, saying, God be merciful to me a sinner. Jump to Previous Baptised Baptized Coats Collectors Food Master Others Publicans Share Tax Tax-Farmers Tax-Gatherers TeacherJump to Next Baptised Baptized Coats Collectors Food Master Others Publicans Share Tax Tax-Farmers Tax-Gatherers TeacherLuke 3 1. The preaching and baptism of John;15. his testimony of Jesus; 19. Herod imprisons John; 21. Jesus, baptized, receives testimony from heaven. 23. The age and genealogy of Jesus from Joseph upwards. Even tax collectors came to be baptized. Tax collectors served under Roman authority and were widely despised as collaborators who often profited by demanding more than was owed. Their arrival for baptism showed that John’s call to repentance reached even those associated with public corruption and betrayal. They acknowledged their sin and sought a changed life before God. Luk 7:29-30 All the people who heard this, even the tax collectors,… “Teacher,” they asked, Addressing John with respect, they recognized his authority to instruct them in God’s requirements. Their response was not merely emotional; they were prepared to receive correction concerning their conduct. Luk 20:21 “Teacher,” they inquired, “we know that You speak and teach… “what should we do?” Their question expressed a desire for practical repentance. John would direct them toward honesty and contentment in their work, showing that genuine repentance produces visible changes in daily behavior. Act 2:37-38 When the people heard this, they were cut to the heart… Persons / Places / Events 1. Tax CollectorsIn the context of first-century Judea, tax collectors were often despised by the Jewish people because they worked for the Roman authorities and were known for extorting money. Their presence in this passage highlights the inclusive nature of John the Baptist's call to repentance. 2. John the Baptist A central figure in this passage, John was a prophet who preached repentance and baptized people in the Jordan River. His message was one of preparation for the coming Messiah. 3. Baptism This was a significant act of repentance and purification. In the Jewish context, it symbolized a turning away from sin and a commitment to a new way of life. 4. The Jordan River A significant location for Jewish history and symbolism, the Jordan River was where John conducted his baptisms. It represents a place of transition and new beginnings. 5. Repentance A key theme in John's ministry, repentance involves a sincere turning away from sin and a commitment to righteous living. Teaching Points Inclusivity of the GospelThe fact that tax collectors came to be baptized shows that the call to repentance is open to all, regardless of social status or past sins. Genuine Repentance True repentance involves a change of heart and behavior. It is not merely about feeling sorry but about taking actionable steps towards righteousness. Seeking Guidance The tax collectors' question, "What should we do?" reflects a desire for practical guidance in living out their repentance. This is a model for believers to seek wisdom and direction in their spiritual journey. Transformation through Christ While John's baptism was a call to repentance, it pointed forward to the transformative power of Jesus Christ, who offers forgiveness and new life. Bible Study Questions and Answers 1. What is the meaning of Luke 3:12?2. How does Luke 3:12 challenge us to act with integrity in our jobs? 3. What does Luke 3:12 teach about repentance and ethical behavior in daily life? 4. How can Luke 3:12 guide Christians in handling financial responsibilities today? 5. Compare Luke 3:12 with Proverbs 11:1 on honesty in financial dealings. 6. How can we apply the principles of Luke 3:12 in modern business practices? 7. Why did tax collectors approach John the Baptist in Luke 3:12? 8. How does Luke 3:12 challenge the perception of tax collectors in biblical times? 9. What does Luke 3:12 reveal about repentance and societal roles? 10. What are the top 10 Lessons from Luke 3? (12) Then came also publicans.--The other Gospels do not mention the presence of this class in their narratives of the Baptist's work, but it is implied in Matthew 21:32.Verse 12. - Then came also publicans to be baptized, and said unto him, Master, what shall we do? This is the first time this class of men, who on several occasions come before us in the gospel story, is mentioned. The English rendering is most unhappy, for to many of our people it either suggests nothing, or else supplies a wrong chain of reasoning. The τελῶναι, the Latin publicani (whence our rendering), were men who collected the Roman taxes or imposts. These imperial taxes, the most painful and everpresent reminder to the Jew of his subject and dependent position, were in the first instance leased out to jobbers and speculators of the equestrian order; these were properly the publicani. Beneath them and in their employ were a numerous staff who performed for these farmers of the imperial revenue the various disagreeable duties connected with the collection of the taxes. Then, as now in the East, bribery, corruption, oppression, and unfair dealing, were too common among all ranks of officials First, then, the duty itself, the being concerned in the collection of a tribute - for that is what these taxes really were - for Gentile Rome, and, secondly, the various iniquities connected with the gathering of this tribute, made the tax or tribute collectors of all ranks odious among the Jews dwelling in Palestine. Many of the posts, especially the subordinate ones, in this department of tribute and taxes, were held by Jews, in all ages singularly gifted in matters which have to do with finance. The Jew, however in the days of John the Baptist, who could stoop to such an employment, lucrative though it might be, was looked upon by his stricter fellow-countrymen with feelings of intense scorn. Yet even these men are not bidden by this inspired prophet of the Highest to change their way of life, but only its manner. "Would you," he says to these men who belonged to the hated calling, "indeed wash and be clean in the eyes of the All-Seeing? then in that profession of yours, remember, be scrupulous, be honest." Luke 3:12 highlights God’s grace reaching even the despised tax collectors. They come, submit to baptism, honor John as teacher, and seek concrete steps of obedience. True repentance welcomes all, humbles the proud, and produces visible, ethical change that aligns with the coming kingdom of Christ. Parallel Commentaries ... Greek Evenκαὶ (kai) Conjunction Strong's 2532: And, even, also, namely. tax collectors τελῶναι (telōnai) Noun - Nominative Masculine Plural Strong's 5057: A publican, collector of taxes. From telos and oneomai; a tax-farmer, i.e. Collector of public revenue. came Ἦλθον (Ēlthon) Verb - Aorist Indicative Active - 3rd Person Plural Strong's 2064: To come, go. to be baptized. βαπτισθῆναι (baptisthēnai) Verb - Aorist Infinitive Passive Strong's 907: Lit: I dip, submerge, but specifically of ceremonial dipping; I baptize. “Teacher,” Διδάσκαλε (Didaskale) Noun - Vocative Masculine Singular Strong's 1320: A teacher, master. From didasko; an instructor. they asked, εἶπαν (eipan) Verb - Aorist Indicative Active - 3rd Person Plural Strong's 2036: Answer, bid, bring word, command. A primary verb; to speak or say. “what τί (ti) Interrogative / Indefinite Pronoun - Accusative Neuter Singular Strong's 5101: Who, which, what, why. Probably emphatic of tis; an interrogative pronoun, who, which or what. should we do?” ποιήσωμεν (poiēsōmen) Verb - Aorist Subjunctive Active - 1st Person Plural Strong's 4160: (a) I make, manufacture, construct, (b) I do, act, cause. Apparently a prolonged form of an obsolete primary; to make or do. Additonal Resources Luke 3:12 Blue Letter BibleLuke 3:12 Bible Gateway Luke 3:12 Bible.com Luke 3:12 NIV |
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