In the fifteenth year of the reign of Tiberius Caesar, while Pontius Pilate was governor of Judea, Herod tetrarch of Galilee, his brother Philip tetrarch of Ituraea and Trachonitis, and Lysanias tetrarch of Abilene, In the fifteenth year of the reign of Tiberius CaesarThis phrase sets the historical context for the events that follow. Tiberius Caesar was the Roman Emperor from AD 14 to 37. The "fifteenth year" would place the events around AD 28-29. This historical anchoring is significant as it underscores the reality of the Gospel narrative within the framework of world history. The mention of Tiberius Caesar also highlights the political climate of the time, a period marked by Roman occupation and governance over Judea, which would have influenced the socio-political environment in which John the Baptist and Jesus ministered. when Pontius Pilate was governor of Judea
Pontius Pilate served as the Roman governor, or prefect, of Judea from AD 26 to 36. His governance is notably marked by his involvement in the trial and crucifixion of Jesus. The mention of Pilate here foreshadows his later role in the Gospel narrative. Pilate's governance was characterized by tension with the Jewish population, which is important to understand the dynamics between the Roman authorities and the Jewish leaders during Jesus' ministry. Herod was tetrarch of Galilee
Herod Antipas, son of Herod the Great, ruled as tetrarch of Galilee and Perea from 4 BC to AD 39. The term "tetrarch" refers to a ruler of a quarter of a region, indicating a division of Herod the Great's kingdom among his sons. Herod Antipas is a significant figure in the Gospels, known for his role in the execution of John the Baptist and his interactions with Jesus. His rule over Galilee is crucial as it was the primary region of Jesus' ministry. his brother Philip tetrarch of Iturea and Traconitis
Philip, another son of Herod the Great, ruled as tetrarch over the regions of Iturea and Traconitis from 4 BC to AD 34. These regions were located to the northeast of Galilee. The mention of Philip provides further geographical context to the political landscape of the time. Iturea and Traconitis were less prominent in the Gospel narratives but are part of the broader setting of the New Testament world. and Lysanias tetrarch of Abilene
Lysanias is a less well-known figure, and his mention here adds to the detailed historical context Luke provides. Abilene was a region located to the north of Galilee. The inclusion of Lysanias highlights the extent of Roman influence and the division of territories among local rulers under Roman oversight. during the high priesthood of Annas and Caiaphas
Annas and Caiaphas were influential Jewish high priests during this period. Annas served as high priest from AD 6 to 15, and although he was deposed, he retained significant influence, especially through his son-in-law Caiaphas, who was high priest from AD 18 to 36. The dual mention of Annas and Caiaphas underscores the religious authority and power dynamics within the Jewish leadership. Their roles are pivotal in the trial and crucifixion of Jesus, highlighting the tension between Jesus' ministry and the established religious order. the word of God came to John son of Zechariah in the wilderness
This phrase marks the divine commissioning of John the Baptist. The "word of God" coming to John signifies a prophetic calling, reminiscent of the Old Testament prophets. John, the son of Zechariah, is introduced as a pivotal figure preparing the way for Jesus. His location "in the wilderness" is symbolic, representing a place of spiritual renewal and preparation, echoing the Israelites' journey through the wilderness. The wilderness setting also fulfills the prophecy of Isaiah, emphasizing John's role in calling the people to repentance and readiness for the coming Messiah. Persons / Places / Events 1. Tiberius CaesarThe Roman Emperor during the time of John the Baptist's ministry. His reign provides a historical context for the events described in the Gospel. 2. Pontius PilateThe governor of Judea, known for his later role in the trial and crucifixion of Jesus. His governance is marked by tension with the Jewish population. 3. Herod (Antipas)Tetrarch of Galilee, son of Herod the Great. He plays a significant role in the New Testament, particularly in the events leading to the execution of John the Baptist. 4. PhilipTetrarch of Iturea and Trachonitis, another son of Herod the Great. His rule is less prominently featured in the New Testament. 5. LysaniasTetrarch of Abilene, a region north of Galilee. Little is known about him, but his mention helps to establish the political landscape of the time. Teaching Points Historical ContextUnderstanding the historical and political context of the New Testament helps us appreciate the challenges faced by early Christians and the fulfillment of prophecy. God's SovereigntyDespite the political complexities and human rulers, God's plan unfolds perfectly. This reminds us that God is in control, even when earthly powers seem dominant. Preparation for MinistryThe detailed setting of the scene in Luke 3:1 prepares us for the introduction of John the Baptist's ministry. It emphasizes the importance of preparation and timing in God's work. Faithfulness in AdversityThe political figures mentioned often opposed God's work, yet John the Baptist and Jesus remained faithful. This encourages us to stand firm in our faith despite opposition. Role of ProphecyThe political landscape fulfills Old Testament prophecies, showing the reliability of God's Word. This strengthens our trust in the Bible's promises. Bible Study Questions 1. How does understanding the political and historical context of Luke 3:1 enhance our comprehension of the New Testament account? 2. In what ways can we see God's sovereignty at work in the political landscape described in Luke 3:1, and how does this apply to our current world situation? 3. How does the mention of these rulers prepare us for the ministry of John the Baptist, and what can we learn about the importance of preparation in our own spiritual lives? 4. Considering the opposition faced by John the Baptist and Jesus from these political figures, how can we remain faithful in our own times of adversity? 5. How does the fulfillment of prophecy in the political context of Luke 3:1 encourage us to trust in the promises of Scripture today? Connections to Other Scriptures The mention of Tiberius Caesar and Pontius Pilate connects to the later events of Jesus' trial and crucifixion, as seen in the Gospels. Herod Antipas' role in the New Testament is further explored in the accounts of John the Baptist's imprisonment and execution. The political divisions and rulers mentioned here are reminiscent of the prophecies in Daniel, which speak of kingdoms and rulers in the context of God's overarching plan. People Adam, Addi, Aminadab, Amminadab, Amos, Annas, Aram, Arphaxad, Boaz, Booz, Caiaphas, Cainan, Cosam, David, Eber, Eli, Eliakim, Eliezer, Elmodam, Enoch, Enos, Enosh, Er, Esaias, Esli, Esrom, Heber, Heli, Herod, Herodias, Hezron, Isaac, Isaiah, Jacob, Janna, Jared, Jesse, Jesus, Joanna, Johanan, John, Jonan, Jorim, Jose, Joseph, Joses, Joshua, Judas, Kenan, Lamech, Levi, Lysanias, Maath, Mahalaleel, Mahath, Maleleel, Mathusala, Mattatha, Mattathias, Matthat, Melchi, Melea, Menan, Methuselah, Naasson, Nachor, Nagge, Nahor, Nahshon, Nahum, Nathan, Naum, Neri, Noah, Noe, Obed, Peleg, Perez, Phalec, Phares, Pharez, Philip, Pilate, Ragau, Reu, Rhesa, Sala, Salah, Salathiel, Salmon, Saruch, Sem, Semei, Serug, Seth, Shealtiel, Shelah, Shem, Simeon, Terah, Thara, Tiberius, Zacharias, Zechariah, Zerubbabel, ZorobabelPlaces Galilee, Ituraea, Jordan River, Judea, TrachonitisTopics Abilene, Abile'ne, Brother, Caesar, Cesar, Fifteenth, Galilee, Government, Governor, Herod, Ituraea, Iturae'a, Iturea, Judaea, Judea, Lysanias, Lysa'ni-as, Lysanius, Philip, Pilate, Pontius, Region, Reign, Rule, Ruler, Tetrarch, Tiberius, Tiber'i-us, Trachonitis, Trachoni'tis, TraconitisDictionary of Bible Themes Luke 3:1 5327 governors
5579 tetrarch
7735 leaders, political Luke 3:1-2 4945 history
5489 rank Luke 3:1-6 1429 prophecy, OT fulfilment
6735 repentance, examples Library St John the Baptist
Chester Cathedral. 1872. St Luke iii. 2, 3, 7, 9-14. "The Word of God came unto John the son of Zacharias in the wilderness. And he came into all the country about Jordan, preaching the baptism of repentance for the remission of sins. . . . Then said he to the multitude that came forth to be baptized of him, O generation of vipers, who hath warned you to flee from the wrath to come? Bring forth therefore fruits worthy of repentance. . . . And now also the axe is laid unto the root of the …
Charles Kingsley—All Saints' Day and Other SermonsJohn the Preacher of Repentance
'Now, in the fifteenth year of the reign of Tiberius Cesar, Pontius Pilate being governor of Judea, and Herod being tetrarch of Galilee, and his brother Philip tetrarch of Iturea and of the region of Trachonitis, and Lysanias the tetrarch of Abilene, 2. Annas and Caiaphas being the high priests, the word of God came unto John, the son of Zacharias, in the wilderness. 3. And he came into all the country about Jordan, preaching the baptism of repentance for the remission of sins; 4. As it is written …
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions Of Holy Scripture John's Witness to Jesus, and God's
'And as the people were in expectation, and all men mused in their hearts of John, whether he were the Christ, or not; 16. John answered, saying unto them all, I indeed baptize you with water; but one mightier than I cometh, the latchet of whose shoes I am not worthy to unloose: He shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost, and with fire: 17. Whose fan is in His hand, and He will thoroughly purge His floor, and will gather the wheat into His garner; but the chaff He will burn with fire unquenchable. …
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions Of Holy Scripture John's Rebuke of Herod.
Preached May 15, 1853. JOHN'S REBUKE OF HEROD. "But Herod the tetrarch, being reproved by him for Herodias, his brother Philip's wife, and for all the evils which Herod had done, added yet this above all, that he shut up John in prison,"--Luke iii. 19, 20. The life of John the Baptist divides itself into three distinct periods. Of the first we are told almost nothing, but we may conjecture much. We are told that he was in the deserts till his showing unto Israel. It was a period probably, in which, …
Frederick W. Robertson—Sermons Preached at Brighton Elucidations.
I. (In the body of a dove, cap. iii. p. 523.) The learned John Scott, in his invaluable work The Christian Life, [7283] identifies the glory shed upon the Saviour at his baptism, with that mentioned by Ezekiel (Cap. xliii. 2) and adds: "In this same glorious splendor was Christ arrayed first at his Baptism and afterward at his Transfiguration....By the Holy Ghost's descending like a Dove, it is not necessary we should understand his descending in the shape or form of a Dove, but that in some glorious …
Tertullian— On the Flesh of Christ Genealogy According to Luke.
^C Luke III. 23-38. ^c 23 And Jesus himself [Luke has been speaking about John the Baptist, he now turns to speak of Jesus himself], when he began to teach, was about thirty years of age [the age when a Levite entered upon God's service--Num. iv. 46, 47], being the son (as was supposed) of Joseph, the son [this may mean that Jesus was grandson of Heli, or that Joseph was counted as a son of Heli because he was his son-in-law] of Heli, 24 the son of Matthat, the son of Levi, the son of Melchi, the …
J. W. McGarvey—The Four-Fold Gospel Appendix vii. On the Date of the Nativity of Our Lord
So much, that is generally accessible, has of late been written on this subject, and such accord exists on the general question, that only the briefest statement seems requisite in this place, the space at our command being necessarily reserved for subjects which have either not been treated of by previous writers, or in a manner or form that seemed to make a fresh investigation desirable. At the outset it must be admitted, that absolute certainty is impossible as to the exact date of Christ's Nativity …
Alfred Edersheim—The Life and Times of Jesus the Messiah Fate of the Enemies of Jesus.
According to the calculation we adopt, the death of Jesus happened in the year 33 of our era.[1] It could not, at all events, be either before the year 29, the preaching of John and Jesus having commenced in the year 28,[2] or after the year 35, since in the year 36, and probably before the passover, Pilate and Kaiapha both lost their offices.[3] The death of Jesus appears, moreover, to have had no connection whatever with these two removals.[4] In his retirement, Pilate probably never dreamt for …
Ernest Renan—The Life of Jesus Jesus at Capernaum.
Beset by an idea, gradually becoming more and more imperious and exclusive, Jesus proceeds henceforth with a kind of fatal impassibility in the path marked out by his astonishing genius and the extraordinary circumstances in which he lived. Hitherto he had only communicated his thoughts to a few persons secretly attracted to him; henceforward his teaching was sought after by the public. He was about thirty years of age.[1] The little group of hearers who had accompanied him to John the Baptist had, …
Ernest Renan—The Life of Jesus The Distinction of the Holy Spirit from the Father and from his Son, Jesus Christ.
We have seen thus far that the Holy Spirit is a Person and a Divine Person. And now another question arises, Is He as a Person separate and distinct from the Father and from the Son? One who carefully studies the New Testament statements cannot but discover that beyond a question He is. We read in Luke iii. 21, 22, "Now when all the people were baptized, it came to pass that Jesus also being baptized, and praying, the heaven was opened, and the Holy Ghost descended in a bodily shape like a dove upon …
R. A. Torrey—The Person and Work of The Holy Spirit The Doubting Soul More Particularly Assisted in Its Inquiries as to the Sincerity of Its Faith and Repentance.
1. Transient impressions liable to be mistaken for conversion, which would be a fatal error.--2. General scheme for self-examination.--3. Particular inquiries--what views there have been of sin?--4. What views there have been of Christ?--5. As to the need the soul has of him;--6. And its willingness to receive him with a due surrender of heart to his service.--7. Nothing short of this sufficient. The soul submitting to Divine examination the sincerity of its faith and repentance. 1. IN consequence …
Philip Doddridge—The Rise and Progress of Religion in the Soul A New Age and New Standards
As the Kingdom Comes Ethical Standards Must Advance Every approximation to the Reign of God in humanity demands an advance in the social relations of men, that is, an advance in ethics. Every really epochal advance must have it or slip back. There must be, first, better obedience to the moral principles already recognized and accepted by society; second, an expansion of the sway of ethical duty to new fields and wider groups of humanity; and third, a recognition of new duties and the assimilation …
Walter Rauschenbusch—The Social Principles of Jesus Luke.
Lucas, Evangelii el medicinae munera pandens; Artibus hinc, illinc religione, valet: Utilis ille labor, per quem vixere tot aegri; Utilior, per quem tot didicere mori!" Critical and Biographical Schleiermacher: Ueber die Schriften des Lukas. Berlin, 1817. Reprinted in the second vol. of his Sämmtliche Werke, Berlin, 1836 (pp. 1-220). Translated by Bishop Thirlwall, London, 1825. James Smith (of Jordanhill, d. 1867): Dissertation on the Life and Writings of St. Luke, prefixed to his Voyage and …
Philip Schaff—History of the Christian Church, Volume I The First Ministry of the Baptist.
(LUKE III.) "Hark, what a sound, and too divine for hearing, Stirs on the earth and trembles in the air! Is it the thunder of the Lord's appearing? Is it the music of his people's prayer? "Surely He cometh, and a thousand voices Shout to the saints, and to the deaf and dumb; Surely He cometh, and the earth rejoices, Glad in his coming who hath sworn, I come." F. W. H. MYERS. The Preaching of Repentance--His Power as a Preacher--His Message--Warning of Impending Judgment--The Wages of Sin Thirty …
F. B. Meyer—John the Baptist Pontius Pilate
BY REV. PRINCIPAL WALTER F. ADENEY, D.D. In spite of the fact that he condemned Jesus to death, the Gospels present us a more favourable portrait of Pontius Pilate than that which we derive from secular historians. Josephus relates incidents that reveal him as the most insolent and provoking of governors. For instance, the Jewish historian ascribes to him a gratuitous insult, the story of which shows its perpetrator to have been as weak as he was offensive. It was customary for Roman armies to …
George Milligan—Men of the Bible; Some Lesser-Known Questions.
LESSON I. 1. In what state was the Earth when first created? 2. To what trial was man subjected? 3. What punishment did the Fall bring on man? 4. How alone could his guilt be atoned for? A. By his punishment being borne by one who was innocent. 5. What was the first promise that there should be such an atonement?--Gen. iii. 15. 6. What were the sacrifices to foreshow? 7. Why was Abel's offering the more acceptable? 8. From which son of Adam was the Seed of the woman to spring? 9. How did Seth's …
Charlotte Mary Yonge—The Chosen People Quirinius the Governor of Syria
WE come now to the last serious difficulty in Luke's account of the "First Enrollment". He says that it occurred while Quirinius was administering Syria. The famous administration of Syria by Quirinius lasted from about AD. 6 to 9; and during that time occurred the" Great Enrollment" and valuation of property in Palestine. [94] Obviously the incidents described by Luke are irreconcilable with that date. There was found near Tibur (Tivoli) in AD. 1764 a fragment of marble with part of an inscription, …
Sir William Mitchell Ramsay—Was Christ Born in Bethlehem? One Argument which Has Been Much Relied Upon but not More than Its Just Weight...
One argument which has been much relied upon (but not more than its just weight deserves) is the conformity of the facts occasionally mentioned or referred to in Scripture with the state of things in those times, as represented by foreign and independent accounts; which conformity proves, that the writers of the New Testament possessed a species of local knowledge which could belong only to an inhabitant of that country and to one living in that age. This argument, if well made out by examples, is …
William Paley—Evidences of Christianity Second Stage of the Roman Trial. Jesus Before Herod Antipas.
(Jerusalem. Early Friday Morning.) ^C Luke XXIII. 6-12. ^c 6 But when Pilate heard it [when he heard that Jesus had begun his operations in Galilee], he asked whether the man were a Galilaean. 7 And when he knew that he was of Herod's jurisdiction [Herod was tetrarch of Galilee--Luke iii. 1], he sent him unto Herod, who himself also ["also" includes both Pilate and Herod, neither of whom lived at Jerusalem] was at Jerusalem in these days. ["These days" refers to the passover season. Pilate had come …
J. W. McGarvey—The Four-Fold Gospel The Messianic Call
Matt. iii. 13 TO iv. 11; Mark i. 9-13; Luke iii. 21, 22; iv. 1-13; John i. 30-34 85. In the circle about John all classes of the people were represented: Pharisees and Sadducees, jealous of innovation and apprehensive of popular excitement; publicans and soldiers, interested in the new preacher or touched in conscience; outcasts who came in penitence, and devout souls in consecration. The wonder of the new message was carried throughout the land and brought great multitudes to the Jordan. Jesus …
Rush Rhees—The Life of Jesus of Nazareth Private Property and the Common Good
Private Property Must Serve Social Welfare A glance across history or a simple acquaintance with human life in any community will show us that private property is at the same time a necessary expression of personality and stimulator of character, and, on the other hand, a chief outlet and fortification of selfishness. Every reformatory effort must aim to conserve and spread the blessings of property, and every step toward a better social order will be pugnaciously blocked by its selfish beneficiaries. …
Walter Rauschenbusch—The Social Principles of Jesus Not that Light, but a Witness.
(John I. 8.) "Nothing resting in its own completeness Can have worth or beauty; but alone Because it leads and tends to farther sweetness, Fuller, higher, deeper than its own. "Spring's real glory dwells not in the meaning, Gracious though it be, of her blue hours; But is hidden in her tender leaning To the summer's richer wealth of flowers." A. A. PROCTOR. Resentment of the Sanhedrim--The Baptist's Credentials--Spiritual Vision--"Behold the Lamb of God"--The Baptism of the Spirit The baptism and …
F. B. Meyer—John the Baptist Links Luke 3:1 NIVLuke 3:1 NLTLuke 3:1 ESVLuke 3:1 NASBLuke 3:1 KJV
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