Luke 3:1

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Luke 3:1 in Multiple Translations

Berean Standard Bible BSB

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,

King James Version KJV

Now in the fifteenth year of the reign of Tiberius Cæsar, Pontius Pilate being governor of Judæa, and Herod being tetrarch of Galilee, and his brother Philip tetrarch of Ituraea and of the region of Trachonitis, and Lysanias the tetrarch of Abilene,

American Standard Version ASV

Now in the fifteenth year of the reign of Tiberius Cæsar, Pontius Pilate being governor of Judæa, and Herod being tetrarch of Galilee, and his brother Philip tetrarch of the region of Ituræa and Trachonitis, and Lysanias tetrarch of Abilene,

Bible in Basic English BBE

Now in the fifteenth year of the rule of Tiberius Caesar, Pontius Pilate being ruler of Judaea, and Herod being king of Galilee, his brother Philip king of the country of Ituraea and Trachonitis, and Lysanias king of Abilene,

Free Bible Version FBV

By now Tiberias had been Caesar for fifteen years. Pontius Pilate was governor of Judea. Herod was ruler of Galilee, his brother Philip was ruler of Iturea and Trachonitis, and Lysanius was ruler of Abiline.

Geneva Bible 1599 GNV

Nowe in the fifteenth yeere of the reigne of Tiberius Caesar, Pontius Pilate being gouernour of Iudea, and Herod being Tetrarch of Galile, and his brother Philip Tetrarch of Iturea, and of the countrey of Trachonitis, and Lysanias the Tetrarch of Abilene,

Young's Literal Translation YLT

And in the fifteenth year of the government of Tiberius Caesar — Pontius Pilate being governor of Judea, and Herod tetrarch of Galilee, and Philip his brother, tetrarch of Ituraea and of the region of Trachonitis, and Lysanias tetrarch of Abilene —

World English Bible WEB

Now in the fifteenth year of the reign of Tiberius Caesar, Pontius Pilate being governor of Judea, and Herod being tetrarch of Galilee, and his brother Philip tetrarch of the region of Ituraea and Trachonitis, and Lysanias tetrarch of Abilene,

Noah Webster Bible WBS

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 Lysanius the tetrarch of Abilene,

Douay-Rheims 1899 DRV

Now in the fifteenth year of the reign of Tiberius Caesar, Pontius Pilate being governor of Judea, and Herod being tetrarch of Galilee, and Philip his brother tetrarch of Iturea, and the country of Trachonitis, and Lysanias tetrarch of Abilina;

Translation for Translators T4T

When the Emperor Tiberius had been ruling the Roman Empire for 15 years, and while Pontius Pilate was the governor of Judea district, and Herod Antipas was ruling Galilee district, and his brother Philip was ruling Iturea and Trachonitis districts, and Lysanius was ruling Abilene district,

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Berean Amplified Bible — Luke 3:1

BAB

Word Study

Hover over any word to see its amplified meaning. Click a word to explore its full definition and translation comparisons.

Amplified text is generated using scripting to tie together English translations for comparison. Always refer to the core BSB translation and original Hebrew/Greek text for accuracy. Anomalies may occur.

Luke 3:1 Interlinear (Deep Study)

BIB

GRK εν ετει δε πεντεκαιδεκατω της ηγεμονιας τιβεριου καισαρος ηγεμονευοντος ποντιου πιλατου της ιουδαιας και τετραρχουντος της γαλιλαιας ηρωδου φιλιππου δε του αδελφου αυτου τετραρχουντος της ιτουραιας και τραχωνιτιδος χωρας και λυσανιου της αβιληνης τετραρχουντος

εν en G1722 in/on/among Prep

ετει etos G2094 year Noun-DSN

δε de G1161 then Conj

πεντεκαιδεκατω pentekaidekatos G4003 fifteenth Adj-DSN

της ho G3588 the/this/who Art-GSF

ηγεμονιας hēgemonia G2231 reign Noun-GSF

τιβεριου Tiberios G5086 Tiberius Noun-GSM

καισαρος Kaisar G2541 Caesar Noun-GSM

ηγεμονευοντος hēgemoneuō G2230 to govern Verb-PAP-GSM

ποντιου Pontios G4194 Pontius Noun-GSM

πιλατου Pilatos G4091 Pilate Noun-GSM

της ho G3588 the/this/who Art-GSF

ιουδαιας Ioudaia G2449 Judea Noun-GSF

και kai G2532 and Conj

τετραρχουντος tetrarcheō G5075 be a tetrarch Verb-PAP-GSM

της ho G3588 the/this/who Art-GSF

γαλιλαιας Galilaia G1056 (Sea of) Galilee Noun-GSF

ηρωδου Hērōdēs G2264 Herod Noun-GSM

φιλιππου Philippos G5376 Philip Noun-GSM

δε de G1161 then Conj

του ho G3588 the/this/who Art-GSM

αδελφου adelphos G80 brother Noun-GSM

αυτου autos G846 it/s/he Pron-GSM

τετραρχουντος tetrarcheō G5075 be a tetrarch Verb-PAP-GSM

της ho G3588 the/this/who Art-GSF

ιτουραιας Itouraia G2484 Ituraea Adj-GSF

και kai G2532 and Conj

τραχωνιτιδος Trachōnitis G5139 Trachonitis Noun-GSF

χωρας chōra G5561 country Noun-GSF

και kai G2532 and Conj

λυσανιου Lusanias G3078 Lysanias Noun-GSM

της ho G3588 the/this/who Art-GSF

αβιληνης Abilēnē G9 Abilene Noun-GSF

τετραρχουντος tetrarcheō G5075 be a tetrarch Verb-PAP-GSM

Greek Word Study

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Greek Word Reference — Luke 3:1

εν en G1722 "in/on/among" Prep

This word is a preposition that means in, on, or among something. It's used in many places, like Matthew 7:3 and Luke 7:37, to describe a location or relationship. It can also mean by, with, or during.

Definition: ἐν, prep, (the most frequently of all in NT), with dative (= Heb. בְּ, Lat. in, with abl.). __I. Of place, with dative of thing(s), of person(s), in, within, on, at, by, among: ἐν τ. πόλει, Luk.7:37; τ. οφθαλμῷ, Mat.7:3; τ. κοιλίᾳ, Mat.12:40; τ. ὄρει, 2Pe.1:18; τ. θρόνῳ, Rev.3:21; τ. δεξιᾷ τ. θεοῦ, Rom.8:34; ἐν ἡμῖν Abbott-Smith has ὑμῖν., Luk.1:1; of books, ἐν τ. βιβλίῳ, Gal.3:10; τ. νόμῳ, Mat.12:5, al.; ἐν τοῖς τ. Πατρός, in my Father's house (RV; cf. M, Pr., 103), Luk.2:49; trop., of the region of thought or feeling, ἐν τ. καρδίᾳ (-αις), Mat.5:28, 2Co.4:6, al.; τ. συνειδήσεσιν, 2Co.5:11; after verbs of motion, instead of εἰς (constructio praegnans, a usage extended in late Gk. beyond the limits observed in cl.; cf. Bl., §41, 1; M, Th., 12), ἀποστέλλω . . . ἐν, Mat.10:16. δέδωκεν ἐν τ. χειρί (cf. τιθέναι ἐν χερσί, Hom., Il., i, 441, al.), Jhn.3:35; id. after verbs of coming and going (not in cl.), εἰσῆλθε, Luk.9:46; ἐξῆλθεν, Luk.7:17. __II. Of state, condition, form, occupation, etc.: ἐν ζωῇ, Rom.5:10; ἐν τ. θανάτῳ, 1Jn.3:14; ἐν πειρασμοῖς, 1Pe.1:6; ἐν εἰρήνῃ, Mrk.5:25; ἐν δόξῃ, Php.4:19; ἐν πραΰτητι, Jas.3:13; ἐν μυστηρίῳ, 1Co.2:7; ἐν τ. διδαχῇ, Mrk.4:2; of a part as contained in a whole, ἐν τ. ἀμπέλῳ, Jhn.15:4; ἐν ἑνὶ σώματι, Rom.12:4; of accompanying objects or persons (simple dative in cl.), with, ἐν αἵματι, Heb.9:25; ἐν δέκα χιλιάσιν, Luk.14:31 (cf. Ju 14, Act.7:14); similarly (cl.), of clothing, armour, arms, ἐν στολαῖς, Mrk.12:38; ἐν ἐσθῆτι λαμπρᾷ, Jas.2:2; ἐν μαξαίρῃ, Luk.22:49; ἐν ῥάβδῳ, 1Co.4:21 (cf. ἐν τόξοις, Xen., Mem., 3, 9, 2); of manner (cl.), ἐν τάχει (= ταχέως), Luk.18:8 (cf. Bl., §41, 1); of spiritual influence, ἐν πνεύματι, Rom.8:9; ἐν π. ἀκαθάρτῳ, Mrk.1:23; of the mystical relation of the Christian life and the believer himself, to God and Christ (cf. ICC, Ro., 160f.; Mayor on Ju 1; M, Pr., 103): ἐν Χριστῷ, Rom.3:24, 6:11, 1Co.3:1, 4:10, 2Co.12:2, Gal.2:17, Eph.6:21, Col.4:7, 1Th.4:16, al. __III. Of the agent, instrument or means (an extension of cl. ἐν of instr.—see LS, see word Ill—corresponding to similar use of Heb. בְּ), by, with: ἐν ὑμῖν κρίνεται ὁ κόσμος (= cl. παρά, C. dative), 1Co.6:2; ἐν τ. ἄρχοντι τ. δαιμονίων, Mat.9:34; ἐν αἵματι, Heb.9:22; ἐν ὕδατι, Mat.3:11, al.; ἐν μαχαίρᾳ ἀποκτενεῖ (cf. the absol. ἐν μ., ἐν ῥάβδῳ, supr., II, which some would classify here), Rev.13:10 (cf. 6:8). Allied to this usage and distinctly Semitic are the following: ἠγόρασας . . . ἐν τ. αἵματι σου (cf. BDB, see word בְּ, III, 3), Rev.5:9; ὁμολογεῖν ἐν (= Aram. אודי בּ; cf. McNeile on Mt, I.with; M, Pr., 104), Mat.10:32, Luk.12:8; ὀμνύναι ἐν (= cl. accusative, so Jas.5:12), Mat.5:34, al.; also at the rate of, amounting to, Mrk.4:8 (WH; vv. ll., εἰς, ἒν), Act.7:14 (LXX). __IV. Of time, __(a) in or during a period: ἐν τ. ἡμέρᾳ (νυκτί), Jhn.11:9, al.; ἐν σαββάτῳ, Mat.12:2, al.; ἐν τῷ μεταξύ, meanwhile, Jhn.4:31; __(b) at the time of an event: ἐν τ. παρουσίᾳ, 1Co.15:23; ἐν τ. ἀναστάσει, Mat.22:28; __(with) with art. inf., __(α) present (so sometimes in cl., but not as in NT = ἕως; V. M, Pr., 215), while: Mat.13:4, Mrk.6:48, Gal.4:18, al.; __(β) aor., when, after: Luk.9:36, al.; __(d) within (cl.): Mat.27:40, __V. In composition: (1) meaning: (a) with adjectives, it signifies usually the possession of a quality, as ἐνάλιος, ἐν́δοξος; (b) with verbs, continuance in (before ἐν) or motion into (before εἰς), as ἐμμένω, ἐμβαίνω. (ii) Assimilation: ἐν becomes ἐμ- before β, μ, π, φ, ψ; ἐγ- before γ, κ, ξ, χ; ἐλ- before λ. But in the older MSS of NT, followed by modern editions, assimilation is sometimes neglected, as in ἐνγράφω, ἐγκαινίζω, etc. (AS)

Usage: Occurs in 2120 NT verses. KJV: about, after, against, + almost, X altogether, among, X as, at, before, between, (here-)by (+ all means), for (… sake of), + give self wholly to, (here-)in(-to, -wardly), X mightily, (because) of, (up-)on, (open-)ly, X outwardly, one, X quickly, X shortly, (speedi-)ly, X that, X there(-in, -on), through(-out), (un-)to(-ward), under, when, where(-with), while, with(-in) See also: 1 Corinthians 1:2; 1 Corinthians 15:17; 1 Peter 1:2.

ετει etos G2094 "year" Noun-DSN

This word refers to a year, like in Luke 3:1 where it says Jesus was baptized in the 15th year of Tiberius' rule. It is also used in Revelation 20:3 to describe a period of time.

Definition: ἔτος, -ους, τό [in LXX for שָׁנֶה ;] a year: Luk.3:1, Heb.1:12, Rev.20:3, al.; ἔτη ἔχειν, Jhn.5:5 8:57; εἶναι, γίνεσθαι, ἐτῶν, Mrk.5:42, Luk.2:42, Act.4:22, 1Ti.5:9; dative pl. of space of time, Jhn.2:20, Act.13:20; accusative, in ans. to how long? Mat.9:20, Mrk.5:25, Luk.2:36, Act.7:6, Heb.3:9, al.; preceded by a prep.: dim, Luk.8:43, Rom.15:23; διά, with genitive (see: διά), Act.24:17, Gal.2:1; ἐκ, Act.24:10; εἰς, Luk.12:19; ἐπί, with accusative, Act.19:10; μετά, with accusative, Gal.1:18 3:17; πρό, with genitive, 2Co.12:2; κατ᾽ ἔτος, yearly, Luk.2:41 SYN.: ἐνιαυτός, which see; cf. LS, see word ἐνιαυτός (AS)

Usage: Occurs in 48 NT verses. KJV: year See also: 1 Timothy 5:9; Luke 2:37; Hebrews 1:12.

δε de G1161 "then" Conj

This is a conjunction that means and, but, or then, used to connect ideas like in Matthew 1:2 and 2 Corinthians 6:15.

Definition: δέ (before vowels δ᾽; on the general neglect of the elision in NT, see WH, App., 146; Tdf., Pr., 96), post-positive conjunctive particle; __1. copulative, but, in the next place, and, now (Abbott, JG, 104): Mat.1:2ff., 2Co.6:15, 16, 2Pe.1:5-7; in repetition for emphasis, Rom.3:21, 22, 9:30, 1Co.2:6, Gal.2:2, Php.2:8; in transition to something new, Mat.1:18, 2:19, Luk.13:1, Jhn.7:14, Act.6:1, Rom.8:28, 1Co.7:1 8:1, al.; in explanatory parenthesis or addition, Jhn.3:19, Rom.5:8, 1Co.1:12, Eph.2:4, 5:32, al.; ὡς δέ, Jhn.2:9; καὶ . . . δέ, but also, Mat.10:18, Luk.1:76, Jhn.6:51, Rom.11:23, al.; καὶ ἐὰν δέ, yea even if, Jhn.8:16. __2. Adversative, but, on the other hand, prop., answering to a foregoing μέν (which see), and distinguishing a word or clause from one preceding (in NT most frequently without μέν; Bl., §77, 12): ἐὰν δέ, Mat.6:14, 23, al.; ἐγὼ (σὺ, etc.) δέ, Mat.5:22, 6:6, Mrk.8:29, al.; ὁ δέ, αὐτὸς δέ, Mrk.1:45, Luk.4:40, al.; after a negation, Mat.6:19, 20, Rom.3:4, 1Th.5:21, al. (AS)

Usage: Occurs in 2552 NT verses. KJV: also, and, but, moreover, now (often unexpressed in English) See also: 1 Corinthians 1:10; 1 Corinthians 12:9; 1 Peter 1:7.

πεντεκαιδεκατω pentekaidekatos G4003 "fifteenth" Adj-DSN

This word means the fifteenth, used in Luke 3:1 to describe the fifteenth year of Tiberius Caesar's reign when John the Baptist began preaching.

Definition: πεντε-και-δέκατος, -η, -ον the fifteenth: Luk.3:1.† (AS)

Usage: Occurs in 1 NT verses. KJV: fifteenth See also: Luke 3:1.

της ho G3588 "the/this/who" Art-GSF

The Greek word for 'the' or 'this', used to point out a specific person or thing, like in Acts 17:28. It can also mean 'he', 'she', or 'it'.

Definition: ὁ, ἡ, τό, the prepositive article (ἄρθρον προτακτικόν), originally a demonstr. pron. (so usually in Hom.), in general corresponding to the Eng. definite article. __I. As demonstr. pron. __1. As frequently in Hom., absol., he (she, it), his (etc.): Act.17:28 (quoted from the poet Aratus). __2. Distributive, ὁ μὲν . . . ὁ δέ, the one . . . the other: 1Co.7:7, Gal.4:22; pl., Act.14:4, 17:32, Php.1:16, al.; οἱ μὲν . . . ἄλλοι δέ, Mat.16:14, Jhn.7:12; οἱ μεν̀ . . . ὁδέ, Heb.7:21, 23. __3. In narration (without ὁ μὲν preceding), ὁ δέ, but he: Mat.2:14, Mrk.1:45, Luk.8:21, Jhn.9:38, al. mult. __II. As prepositive article, the, prefixed, __1. to nouns unmodified: ὁ θεός, τὸ φῶς, etc.; to abstract nouns, ἡ σοφία, etc., to pl. nouns which indicate a class, οἱ ἀλώπεκες, foxes, Mat.8:20, al.; to an individual as representing a class, ὁ ἐργάτης, Luk.10:7; with nom. = voc. in addresses, Mat.11:26, Jhn.19:3, Jas.5:1, al.; to things which pertain to one, ἡ χεῖρ, his hand, Mrk.3:1; to names of persons well known or already mentioned; usually to names of countries (originally adjectives), ἡ Ἰουδαία, etc. __2. To modified nouns: with of person(s) pron. genitive, μοῦ, σοῦ, etc.; with poss. pron., ἐμός, σός, etc.; with adj. between the art. and the noun, ὁ ἀγαθὸς ἄνθρωπος, Mat.12:35; the noun foll, by adj., both with art., ὁ ποιμὴν ὁ καλός, Jhn.10:11 (on ὁ ὄχλος πολύς, Jhn.12:9, see M, Pr., 84); before adjectival phrases, ἡ κατ᾽ ἐκλογὴν πρόθεσις, Rom.9:11. __3. To Other parts of speech used as substantives; __(a) neuter adjectives: τ. ἀγαθόν, etc.; __(b) cardinal numerals: ὁ εἶς, οἷ δύο, etc.; __(with) participles: ὁ βαπτίζων (= ὁ Βαπτιστής, Mat.14:2), Mrk.6:14; πᾶς ὁ, with ptcp., every one who, etc.; __(d) adverbs: τὸ πέραν, τὰ νῦν, ὁ ἔσω ἄνθρωπος; __(e) infinitives: nom., τὸ θέλειν, Rom.7:18, al.; genitive, τοῦ, after adjectives, ἄξιον τοῦ πορεύεσθαι, 1Co.16:4; verbs, ἐλαχεν τοῦ θυμιᾶσαι, Luk.1:9; and frequently in a final sense, ἐξῆλθεν ὁ σπείρειν, Mat.13:3 (on the artic. inf., see Bl., §71). __4. In the neut. to sentences, phrases or single words treated as a quotation: τὸ Ἐι δύνῃ, Mrk.9:23; τὸ ἔτι ἅπαξ, Heb.12:27; τὸ ἀνέβη, Eph.4:9, al. __5. To prepositional phrases: οἱ ἀπὸ Ἰταλίας, Heb.13:24; οἱ ἐκ νόμου, Rom.4:14; neut. accusative absol., in adverbial phrases, τὸ καθ᾽ ἡμέραν, daily, Luk.11:3; τὸ κατὰ σάρκα, as regards the flesh, Rom.9:5. __6. To nouns in the genitive, denoting kinship, association, etc.: ὁ τοῦ, the son of (unless context indicates a different relationship), Mat.10:2, al.; τὰ τοῦ θεοῦ, the things that pertain to God, Mat.16:23; τὰ τῆς εἰρήνης, Rom.14:19 (cf. M, Pr., 81ff.; Bl, §§46, 47). (AS)

Usage: Occurs in 7033 NT verses. KJV: the, this, that, one, he, she, it, etc See also: 1 Corinthians 1:1; 1 Corinthians 7:16; 1 Corinthians 11:24.

ηγεμονιας hēgemonia G2231 "reign" Noun-GSF

In the Bible, this word means a period of time when someone is in charge, like a king's reign. It is used in Luke 3:1 to describe the reign of different rulers. This concept is also seen in the book of Genesis and Numbers.

Definition: ἡγεμονία, -ας, ἡ (ἡγεμών), [in LXX: Gen.36:30 (אַלּוּף), Num.1:52 2:17, (דֶּגֶל), Sir.7:4 10:1, 4Ma.6:33 4Mac 13:4 * ;] rule, sovereignty: Luk.3:1.† (AS)

Usage: Occurs in 1 NT verses. KJV: reign See also: Luke 3:1.

τιβεριου Tiberios G5086 "Tiberius" Noun-GSM

Tiberius was a Roman emperor mentioned in Luke 3:1. He was the one ruling when Jesus started his ministry. Tiberius was a key figure in the Roman Empire.

Definition: Τιβέριος, -ου, ὁ, the Emperor Tiberius: Luk.3:1.† (AS)

Usage: Occurs in 1 NT verses. KJV: Tiberius See also: Luke 3:1.

καισαρος Kaisar G2541 "Caesar" Noun-GSM

Caesar was a title for the Roman emperor, used in the Bible to refer to the ruling power. It appears in Matthew 22:17, Luke 2:1, and Acts 25:8, showing the intersection of faith and politics.

Definition: Καῖσαρ, -αρος, ὁ Cæsar: Mat.22:17, Luk.2:1, Jhn.19:12, Act.25:8 ff., al (AS)

Usage: Occurs in 24 NT verses. KJV: Cæsar See also: Acts 11:28; Luke 2:1; Philippians 4:22.

ηγεμονευοντος hēgemoneuō G2230 "to govern" Verb-PAP-GSM

To govern means to rule or lead, as seen in Luke 2:2 where a governor was in charge of a province. It's about having authority and control over a group of people or a place.

Definition: ἡγεμονεύω (ἡγεμών), __1. to lead the way. __2. to lead in war, command (of. Ramsay, Was Christ born at Bethlehem?; DCG, ii, 463 f.). __3. to be governor of a province: with genitive loc., Luk.2:2 3:1.† (AS)

Usage: Occurs in 2 NT verses. KJV: be governor See also: Luke 2:2; Luke 3:1.

ποντιου Pontios G4194 "Pontius" Noun-GSM

The Greek word for Pontius, a Roman name, used in the New Testament to refer to Pontius Pilate, the Roman governor who sentenced Jesus to death, as seen in Matthew 27:2 and Luke 3:1.

Definition: Πόντιος, -ου, ὁ Pontius, the prænomen of Pilate (see: Πειλᾶτος), Mat.27:2 (Rec., WH, mg.), Luk.3:1, Act.4:27, 1Ti.6:13.† (AS)

Usage: Occurs in 4 NT verses. KJV: Pontius See also: 1 Timothy 6:13; Luke 3:1; Matthew 27:2.

πιλατου Pilatos G4091 "Pilate" Noun-GSM

Pilate was a Roman leader who played a key role in the New Testament, particularly in the trials of Jesus. He is mentioned in Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John. Pilate's story is significant in the Bible.

Definition: Πειλᾶτος (Rec. Πιλάτος, Tr., -ᾶτος, see WH, App., 155), -ου, ὁ, Pontius Pilate: Mat.27:2, Mrk.15:1, Luk.3:1, Jhn.18:29, Act.3:13, 1Ti.6:13, al (AS)

Usage: Occurs in 53 NT verses. KJV: Pilate See also: 1 Timothy 6:13; Luke 23:3; Matthew 27:65.

της ho G3588 "the/this/who" Art-GSF

The Greek word for 'the' or 'this', used to point out a specific person or thing, like in Acts 17:28. It can also mean 'he', 'she', or 'it'.

Usage: Occurs in 7033 NT verses. KJV: the, this, that, one, he, she, it, etc See also: 1 Corinthians 1:1; 1 Corinthians 7:16; 1 Corinthians 11:24.

ιουδαιας Ioudaia G2449 "Judea" Noun-GSF

Judea is a region in southern Palestine, below Samaria, as mentioned in Matthew 2:1 and 3:1. It is also used to refer to the people who live there, the Judeans.

Definition: § Judea, Judean, "land of the Judahites" Judea, the southern party of the country, below Samaria, Mt. 2:1, 5, 22; 3:1; metonymy the inhabitants of Judea

Usage: Occurs in 43 NT verses. KJV: Judæa See also: 1 Thessalonians 2:14; Luke 1:5; Romans 15:31.

και kai G2532 "and" Conj

And or also, a connecting word used to join ideas or words, like in Matthew 2:18 and Hebrews 1:1.

Definition: καί, conj., and __I. Copulative. __1. Connecting single words; __(a) in general: Mat.2:18, 16:1, Mrk.2:15, Luk.8:15, Heb.1:1, al. mult.; repeated before each of the terms in a series, Mat.23:23, Luk.14:21, Rom.7:12, 9:4, al. __(b) connecting numerals (WM, §37, 4): Jhn.2:20, Act.13:20; __(with) joining terms which are not mutually exclusive, as the part with the whole: Mat.8:33, 26:59, Mrk.16:17, Act.5:29, al. __2. Connecting clauses and sentences: Mat.3:12, Act.5:21, al. mult.; esp. __(a) where, after the simplicity of the popular language, sentences are paratactically joined (WM, §60, 3; M, Pr., 12; Deiss., LAE, 128ff.): Mat.1:21, 7:25, Mrk.9:5, Jhn.10:3, al.; __(b) joining affirmative to negative sentences: Luk.3:14, Jhn.4:11, IIIJhn.10; __(with) consecutive, and so: Mat.5:1, 23:32, Heb.3:19, al.; after imperatives, Mat.4:19, Luk.7:7, al.; __(d) = καίτοι, and yet: Mat.3:14, 6:26, Mrk.12:12, Luk.18:7 (Field, Notes, 72), 1Co.5:2, al.; __(e) beginning an apodosis (= Heb. וְ; so sometimes δέ in cl.), then: Luk.2:21, 7:12, Act.1:10; beginning a question (WM, §53, 3a): Mrk.10:26, Luk.10:29, Jhn.9:36. __3. Epexegetic, and, and indeed, namely (WM, §53, 3c): Luk.3:18, Jhn.1:16, Act.23:6, Rom.1:5, 1Co.3:5, al. __4. In transition: Mat.4:23, Mrk.5:1, 21, Jhn.1:19, al.; so, Hebraistically, καὶ ἐγένετο (וַי:הִי; also ἐγένετο δέ), Mrk.1:9 (cf. Luk.5:1; V. Burton, §§357-60; M, Pr., 14, 16). __5. καὶ . . . καί, both . . . and (for τε . . . καί, see: τε); __(a) connecting single words: Mat.10:28, Mrk.4:41, Rom.11:33, al.; __(b) clauses and sentences: Mrk.9:13, Jhn.7:28, 1Co.1:22, al. __II. Adjunctive, also, even, still: Mat.5:39, 40; Mrk.2:28, al. mult.; esp. with pron., adv., etc., Mat.20:4, Jhn.7:47, al; ὡς κ., Act.11:17; καθὼς κ., Rom.15:7; οὑτω κ., Rom.6:11; διὸ κ., Luk.1:35; ὁ κ. (Deiss., BS, 313ff.), Act.13:9; pleonastically, μετὰ κ.. (Bl., §77, 7; Deiss., BS, 265f,), Php.4:3; τί κ., 1 Co 15:29; ἀλλὰ κ., Luk.14:22, Jhn.5:18, al.; καίγε (M, Pr., 230; Burton, §437), Act.17:27; καίπερ, Heb.5:8; κ. ἐάν, see: ἐάν. ἐάν, contr. fr. εἰ ἄν, conditional particle, representing something as "under certain circumstances actual or liable to happen," but not so definitely expected as in the case of εἰ with ind. (Bl., §65, 4; cf. Jhn.13:17, 1Co.7:36), if haply, if; __1. with subjc. (cl.); __(a) pres.: Mat.6:22, Luk.10:6, Jhn.7:17, Rom.2:25, 26 al.; { __(b) aor. (= Lat. fut. pf.): Mat.4:9 16:26 (cf. ptcp. in Luk.9:25; M, Pr., 230), Mrk.3:24, Luk.14:34, Jhn.5:43, Rom.7:2, al.; = cl. εἰ, with opt., Jhn.9:22 11:57, Act.9:2; as Heb. אִם = ὅταν, Jhn.12:32 14:3, I Jhn.2:28 3:2, Heb.3:7" (LXX) . __2. C. indic, (as in late writers, fr. Arist. on; see WH, App., 171; VD, MGr. 2, App., §77; Deiss., BS, 201f., LAE, 155, 254; M, Pr., 168, 187; Bl., §65, 4); __(a) fut.: Mat.18:19 T, Luk.19:40, Act.7:7; __(b) pres.: 1Th.3:8 (see Milligan, in l.). __3. With other particles: ἐ. καί (Bl., §65, 6), Gal.6:1; ἐ. μή (M, Pr., 185, 187; Bl., l.with), with subjc. pres., Mat.10:13, 1Co.8:8, Jas.2:17, 1Jn.3:21; aor., Mat.6:15, Mrk.3:27, Jhn.3:3, Rom.10:15, Gal.1:8 2:16 (see Lft., Ellic., in ll.); ἐ. τε . . . ἐ. τε, [in LXX for אִם . . . אִם, Est.19:13, al.,] Rom.14:8. __4. = cl. ἄν (which see) after relat. pronouns and adverbs (Tdf., Pr., 96; WH, App., 173; M, Pr., 42f.; Bl., §26, 4; Mayser, 152f.; Deiss., BS, 202ff.): ὃς ἐ., Mat.5:19, Mrk.6:22, 23 Luk.17:32, 1Co.6:18, al.; ὅπου ἐ., Mat.8:19; ὁσάκις ἐ., Rev.11:6; οὗ ἐ., 1Co.16:6; καθὸ ἐ., 2Co.8:12; ὅστις ἐ., Gal.5:10. (AS)

Usage: Occurs in 5212 NT verses. KJV: and, also, both, but, even, for, if, or, so, that, then, therefore, when, yet See also: 1 Corinthians 1:1; 1 Corinthians 10:4; 1 Corinthians 16:1.

τετραρχουντος tetrarcheō G5075 "be a tetrarch" Verb-PAP-GSM

To be a tetrarch means to rule over a fourth part of a region. In Luke 3:1, it describes the role of a tetrarch, who governs a portion of a country. The position is one of authority and leadership.

Definition: τετρααρχέω (Rec. τετραρχ-; see WH, App., 145), -ῶ (τετραάρχης), to be tetrarch: with genitive, Luk.3:1 (FlJ, BJ, iii, 10, 7).† (AS)

Usage: Occurs in 1 NT verses. KJV: (be) tetrarch See also: Luke 3:1.

της ho G3588 "the/this/who" Art-GSF

The Greek word for 'the' or 'this', used to point out a specific person or thing, like in Acts 17:28. It can also mean 'he', 'she', or 'it'.

Usage: Occurs in 7033 NT verses. KJV: the, this, that, one, he, she, it, etc See also: 1 Corinthians 1:1; 1 Corinthians 7:16; 1 Corinthians 11:24.

γαλιλαιας Galilaia G1056 "(Sea of) Galilee" Noun-GSF

Galilee is a region in Palestine where Jesus ministered, as seen in Matthew 4:15 and John 6:1. It was also the location of the Sea of Galilee, a significant setting for Jesus' teachings and miracles.

Definition: Γαλιλαία, -ας, ἡ (Heb. הַגָּלִיל, the circle, district), Galilee, the name of the northern region of Palestine in NT times: Γ. τῶν ἐθνῶν, Mat.4:15 (LXX); θάλασσα τῆς Γ., Mat.15:29 (cf. Jhn.6:1). (AS)

Usage: Occurs in 62 NT verses. KJV: Galilee See also: Acts 9:31; Luke 23:49; Matthew 28:16.

ηρωδου Hērōdēs G2264 "Herod" Noun-GSM

Herod refers to four Jewish kings, including Herod the Great, who appears in Matthew 2:1-23 and Acts 23:35. The name means heroic and is associated with the Herod dynasty. Herod Antipas and Herod Agrippa I are also mentioned in the Bible.

Definition: Ἡρῴδης (Rec. -ώδης), -ου, ὁ Herod; __1. Herod the Great: Mat.2:1-23, Act.23:35. __2. Herod Antipas (ὁ τετραάρχης, Mat.14:1): Mat.14:1, 3 14:6, Mrk.6:1-56, Mrk.8:15, Luk.1:5 3:1, 19 8:3 9:7, 9 13:31, 23, Act.4:27 13:1. __3. Herod Agrippa I: Act.12:1, 6 12:11, 19 12:21 (cf. Ἀγρίππας (II)).† (AS)

Usage: Occurs in 41 NT verses. KJV: Herod See also: Acts 4:27; Luke 23:15; Matthew 14:6.

φιλιππου Philippos G5376 "Philip" Noun-GSM

Philip was a common name in the Bible, referring to different individuals, including an apostle and a deacon. The apostle Philip is mentioned in Mat.10:3 and Act.1:13, while the deacon Philip is seen in Act.6:5 and 8:5-40.

Definition: φίλιππος, -ου, ὁ Philip; __1. the husband of Herodias: Mat.14:3, Mrk.6:17. __2. The tetrarch: Mat.16:13, Mrk.8:27, Luk.3:1. __3. The apostle: Mat.10:3, Mrk.3:18, Luk.6:14, Jhn.1:44-49 6:5, 7 12:21-22 14:8-9, Act.1:13. __4. The deacon and evangelist: Act.6:5 8:5-40 21:8.† (AS)

Usage: Occurs in 35 NT verses. KJV: Philip See also: Acts 1:13; John 1:44; Matthew 16:13.

δε de G1161 "then" Conj

This is a conjunction that means and, but, or then, used to connect ideas like in Matthew 1:2 and 2 Corinthians 6:15.

Usage: Occurs in 2552 NT verses. KJV: also, and, but, moreover, now (often unexpressed in English) See also: 1 Corinthians 1:10; 1 Corinthians 12:9; 1 Peter 1:7.

του ho G3588 "the/this/who" Art-GSM

The Greek word for 'the' or 'this', used to point out a specific person or thing, like in Acts 17:28. It can also mean 'he', 'she', or 'it'.

Usage: Occurs in 7033 NT verses. KJV: the, this, that, one, he, she, it, etc See also: 1 Corinthians 1:1; 1 Corinthians 7:16; 1 Corinthians 11:24.

αδελφου adelphos G80 "brother" Noun-GSM

The Greek word for brother refers to a male sibling or a fellow Christian, as seen in Matthew 1:2 and 1 Corinthians 1:1. It implies a close relationship.

Definition: ἀδελφός, -οῦ, ὁ (ἀ- copul., δελφύς, womb), in cl., a brother, born of the same parent or parents. [In LXX (Hort, Ja., 102f.), for אָח ;] __1. lit. of a brother (Gen.4:2, al.). __2. Of a neighbour (Lev.19:17). __3. Of a member of the same nation (Exo.2:14, Deu.15:3). In NT in each of these senses (1. Mat.1:2, al.; 2. Mat.7:3; 3. Rom.9:3) and also, __4. of a fellow-Christian: 1Co.1:1, Act.9:30. This usage finds illustration in π., where ἀ. is used of members of a pagan religious community (M, Th., I, 1:4; MM, VGT, see word). The ἀδελφοὶ τ. Κυρίου (Mat.12:46-49 13:55 28:10, Mrk.3:31-34, Luk.8:19-21, Jhn.2:12 7:3, 5 10 20:17, Act.1:14, 1Co.9:5) may have been sons of Joseph and Mary (Mayor, Ja., Intr. viff.; DB, i, 320ff.) or of Joseph by a former marriage (Lft., Gal., 252ff.; DCG, i, 232ff.), but the view of Jerome, which makes ἀ. equivalent to ἀνεψιός, is inconsistent with Greek usage. (Cremer, 66.) (AS)

Usage: Occurs in 318 NT verses. KJV: brother See also: 1 Corinthians 1:1; Acts 2:37; 1 Peter 5:12.

αυτου autos G846 "it/s/he" Pron-GSM

This pronoun refers to a person or thing, like 'he', 'she', or 'it'. It is used in the Bible to emphasize a person or thing, like in John 2:25 where it says 'he himself knew'.

Definition: αὐτός, -ή, -ό, determinative pron., in late Gk. much more frequently than in cl. (WM, 178f.; Jannaris, HGG, §1399). __1. Emphatic (so always in nom. exc. when preceded by the art., see infr., iii); __(1) self (ipse), expressing opposition, distinction, exclusion, etc., αὐ. ἐκχυθήσεται, Luk.5:37; αὐ. ἐγινώσκεν, Jhn.2:25; αὐ.ὑμεῖς, Jhn.3:28; καὶ αὐ. ἐγώ, Rom.15:14; αὐ. Ἰησοῦς, Jhn.2:24; αὐ. καὶ οἱ μετ᾽ αὐτοῦ, Mrk.2:25; ὑμεῖς αὐ., Mrk.6:31; esp. (as freq in cl.) αὐ. ὁ, Mat.3:4, Mrk.6:17, Jhn.16:27, 1Th.3:11, al.; in late Gk., sometimes weakened, ἐν αὐτῇ τ. ὥρᾳ, in that hour, Luk.10:21 (M, Pr., 91; MM, see word); __(2) emphatic, he, she, it (M, Pr., 86; Bl., §48, 1, 2, 7), Mat.1:21, 12:50, Luk.6:35, al.; pointing to some one as master (cl.), Mat.8:24, Mrk.4:38, al.; αὐ., καὶ αὐ. = οὗτος, ὁ δε (BL, §48, 1), Mat.14:2, Mrk.14:15, 44, Luk.1:22, 2:28, al. __2. In oblique cases (cl.), for the simple pron. of 3rd of person(s), he, she, it, Mat.7:9, 10:12, 26:44, al.; with ptcp. in genitive absol., Mat.9:18, Mrk.13:1, al. (for irreg. constructions, V. Bl., §74, 5); pleonastically after the relative (cf. Heb. אֲשֶׁר לוֹ; WM, 184ff.; Bl., §50, 4; MM, see word), Mrk.7:25, Rev.3:8, 7:2, al.; in constr. ad sensum, without proper subject expressly indicated, Mat.4:23, Act.8:5, 2Co.2:13, al.; genitive αὐτοῦ = ἐκείνου, Rom.11:11, 1Th.2:19, Tit.3:5, Heb.2:4. __3. ὁ, ἡ, τὸ αὐ., the same: Heb.1:12, 13:8; τὸ αὐ., ποιεῖν, Mat.5:46, 47, al.; φρονεῖν, Rom.12:16, 15:5, Php.2:2, al.; τὰ αὐ., Act.15:27, Rom.2:1, al.; κατὰ τὸ (τὰ) αὐ. (MM, see word), Act.14:1, Luk.6:23, al.; ἐπὶ τὸ αὐ., together (MM, see word), Mat.22:34, Act.1:15, al.; ἓν κ. τὸ αὐ., 1Co.11:5, 12:11; with dative (cl.), 1Co.11:5; with a noun, λόγος, Mrk.14:39; μέτρος, Php.1:30; πνεῦμα, 1Co.12:4. (AS)

Usage: Occurs in 3773 NT verses. KJV: her, it(-self), one, the other, (mine) own, said, (self-), the) same, ((him-, my-, thy- )self, (your-)selves, she, that, their(-s), them(-selves), there(-at, - by, -in, -into, -of, -on, -with), they, (these) things, this (man), those, together, very, which See also: 1 Corinthians 1:2; 1 John 3:10; 1 Peter 1:3.

τετραρχουντος tetrarcheō G5075 "be a tetrarch" Verb-PAP-GSM

To be a tetrarch means to rule over a fourth part of a region. In Luke 3:1, it describes the role of a tetrarch, who governs a portion of a country. The position is one of authority and leadership.

Definition: τετρααρχέω (Rec. τετραρχ-; see WH, App., 145), -ῶ (τετραάρχης), to be tetrarch: with genitive, Luk.3:1 (FlJ, BJ, iii, 10, 7).† (AS)

Usage: Occurs in 1 NT verses. KJV: (be) tetrarch See also: Luke 3:1.

της ho G3588 "the/this/who" Art-GSF

The Greek word for 'the' or 'this', used to point out a specific person or thing, like in Acts 17:28. It can also mean 'he', 'she', or 'it'.

Usage: Occurs in 7033 NT verses. KJV: the, this, that, one, he, she, it, etc See also: 1 Corinthians 1:1; 1 Corinthians 7:16; 1 Corinthians 11:24.

ιτουραιας Itouraia G2484 "Ituraea" Adj-GSF

Ituraea was a region in ancient Palestine, mentioned in Luke 3:1. This area was near the land of the Ituraeans, a group of people. It was also known as Jetur.

Definition: Ἰτουραῖος, -αία, -αῖον [in LXX: 1Ch.5:19 A (יְטוּר) * ;] Ituræan (in cl. always ὁι Ἰ., the Ituræans) χώρα (ἡ Ἰτουραίων ὀρεινή, τὰ τῶν Ἰ. μέρη, Strabo, XVI, ii, 16, 20), Luk.3:1 (cf. Exp. (1894), ix, 51 ff., 143 ff., 288 ff.).† (AS)

Usage: Occurs in 1 NT verses. KJV: Ituræa See also: Luke 3:1.

και kai G2532 "and" Conj

And or also, a connecting word used to join ideas or words, like in Matthew 2:18 and Hebrews 1:1.

Usage: Occurs in 5212 NT verses. KJV: and, also, both, but, even, for, if, or, so, that, then, therefore, when, yet See also: 1 Corinthians 1:1; 1 Corinthians 10:4; 1 Corinthians 16:1.

τραχωνιτιδος Trachōnitis G5139 "Trachonitis" Noun-GSF

Trachonitis is a region in Syria described as rough, mentioned in Luke 3:1 as the area where Jesus began his ministry.

Definition: Τραχωνῖτις, -ιδος, ἡ (τραχύς) Trachonitis, a rough region S. of Damascus (in FlJ, sometimes ἡ Τ., sometimes ό Τράχων): ἡ Τ. χώρα, Luk.3:1.† (AS)

Usage: Occurs in 1 NT verses. KJV: Trachonitis See also: Luke 3:1.

χωρας chōra G5561 "country" Noun-GSF

The Greek word for a region or country, used in Matthew 12:2 to describe a place where Jesus and his disciples were walking.

Definition: χώρα, -ας, ἡ [in LXX for אֶרֶץ, מְדִינָה, etc. ;] __1. most frequently in cl., a space, place. __2. land, i.e. __(a) a land, country, region: Mat.12:2, Mrk.5:10 6:55, Luk.2:8 15:13-15 19:12, Jhn.11:54, Act.13:49 27:27; χ. Γαλατική, Act.16:6 18:23; Τραχωνίτιδος, Luk.3:1; τ. Ἰουδαίας, Act.26:20; τ. Ἰουδαίων, Act.10:39; pl., τῆς Ἰουδαίας κ. Σαμαρείας, Act.8:1; Γεργεσηνῶν (Γερασηνῶν, Γαδαρηνῶν) Mat.8:28, Mrk.5:1, Luk.8:26; ἐν χ. καὶ σκιᾷ θανάτου, Mat.4:16; __(b) land, property: Luk.12:16; __(with) the country, opposite to the town; so in pl., Luk.21:21, Jhn.4:35, Jas.5:4.† SYN.: ἄγρος, τόπος (cf. DCG, i, 591a; LS, see word χώρα, ad init.). (AS)

Usage: Occurs in 27 NT verses. KJV: coast, county, fields, ground, land, region See also: Acts 8:1; Luke 3:1; James 5:4.

και kai G2532 "and" Conj

And or also, a connecting word used to join ideas or words, like in Matthew 2:18 and Hebrews 1:1.

Usage: Occurs in 5212 NT verses. KJV: and, also, both, but, even, for, if, or, so, that, then, therefore, when, yet See also: 1 Corinthians 1:1; 1 Corinthians 10:4; 1 Corinthians 16:1.

λυσανιου Lusanias G3078 "Lysanias" Noun-GSM

Lysanias, a governor of Abilene, is mentioned in Luke 3:1 as a ruler during Jesus' time.

Definition: Λυσανίας, -ου, ὁ Lysanias: Luk.3:1.† (AS)

Usage: Occurs in 1 NT verses. KJV: Lysanias See also: Luke 3:1.

της ho G3588 "the/this/who" Art-GSF

The Greek word for 'the' or 'this', used to point out a specific person or thing, like in Acts 17:28. It can also mean 'he', 'she', or 'it'.

Usage: Occurs in 7033 NT verses. KJV: the, this, that, one, he, she, it, etc See also: 1 Corinthians 1:1; 1 Corinthians 7:16; 1 Corinthians 11:24.

αβιληνης Abilēnē G9 "Abilene" Noun-GSF

Refers to Abilene, a region in Syria, as mentioned in Luke 3:1, where Lysanias was the tetrarch.

Definition: Ἀβειληνή (T, Rec. Ἀβι-), -ῆς, ἡ, (sc. χώρα), Abilene, a district in the Anti-Lebanon: Luk.3:1.† (AS)

Usage: Occurs in 1 NT verses. KJV: Abilene See also: Luke 3:1.

τετραρχουντος tetrarcheō G5075 "be a tetrarch" Verb-PAP-GSM

To be a tetrarch means to rule over a fourth part of a region. In Luke 3:1, it describes the role of a tetrarch, who governs a portion of a country. The position is one of authority and leadership.

Definition: τετρααρχέω (Rec. τετραρχ-; see WH, App., 145), -ῶ (τετραάρχης), to be tetrarch: with genitive, Luk.3:1 (FlJ, BJ, iii, 10, 7).† (AS)

Usage: Occurs in 1 NT verses. KJV: (be) tetrarch See also: Luke 3:1.

Study Notes — Luke 3:1

Show Verse Quote Highlights

Context
Cross References
Luke 3:1 Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Reflection Questions
Gill's Exposition on Luke 3:1
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on Luke 3:1
Matthew Poole's Commentary on Luke 3:1
Trapp's Commentary on Luke 3:1
Ellicott's Commentary on Luke 3:1
Adam Clarke's Commentary on Luke 3:1
Cambridge Bible on Luke 3:1
Barnes' Notes on Luke 3:1
Whedon's Commentary on Luke 3:1
Sermons on Luke 3:1

Context — The Mission of John the Baptist

1In 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,

2during the high priesthood of Annas and Caiaphas, the word of God came to John son of Zechariah in the wilderness. 3He went into all the region around the Jordan, preaching a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins,

Cross References

	Reference	Text (BSB)
1	Luke 23:24	So Pilate sentenced that their demand be met.
2	Genesis 49:10	The scepter will not depart from Judah, nor the staff from between his feet, until Shiloh comes and the allegiance of the nations is his.
3	Luke 9:7	When Herod the tetrarch heard about all that was happening, he was perplexed. For some were saying that John had risen from the dead,
4	Acts 4:27	In fact, this is the very city where Herod and Pontius Pilate conspired with the Gentiles and the people of Israel against Your holy servant Jesus, whom You anointed.
5	Luke 2:1	Now in those days a decree went out from Caesar Augustus that a census should be taken of the whole empire.
6	Luke 23:6–11	When Pilate heard this, he asked if the man was a Galilean. And learning that Jesus was under Herod’s jurisdiction, he sent Him to Herod, who himself was in Jerusalem at that time. When Herod saw Jesus, he was greatly pleased. He had wanted to see Him for a long time, because he had heard about Him and was hoping to see Him perform a miracle. Herod questioned Jesus at great length, but He gave no answer. Meanwhile, the chief priests and scribes stood there, vehemently accusing Him. And even Herod and his soldiers ridiculed and mocked Him. Dressing Him in a fine robe, they sent Him back to Pilate.
7	Matthew 27:2	They bound Him, led Him away, and handed Him over to Pilate the governor.
8	Acts 26:30	Then the king and the governor rose, along with Bernice and those seated with them.
9	Mark 6:17	For Herod himself had ordered that John be arrested and bound and imprisoned, on account of his brother Philip’s wife Herodias, whom Herod had married.
10	Matthew 14:1	At that time Herod the tetrarch heard the reports about Jesus

Luke 3:1 Summary

Luke 3:1 provides historical context for the ministry of John the Baptist and Jesus, highlighting God's sovereignty over all nations and rulers, as seen in (Daniel 2:21) and (Isaiah 44:28). This verse sets the stage for the events that will unfold in the Gospel of Luke, emphasizing the importance of understanding the cultural and historical context in which Jesus ministered. By examining this verse, we can gain a deeper appreciation for God's plan of salvation and His ability to work through human leaders, as seen in (John 19:12-13) and other biblical accounts. As we reflect on this verse, we can ask ourselves how we can prepare the way for others to encounter Jesus, just like John the Baptist, and how we can be more attentive to God's voice in our own lives, as seen in (Exodus 3:1-4:17) and (1 Kings 19:1-18).

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does the Bible include so many details about rulers and governments in Luke 3:1?

The Bible includes these details to provide historical context and to emphasize the fulfillment of prophecy, as seen in Daniel 2:21 and Isaiah 44:28, which highlight God's sovereignty over all nations and rulers.

Who was Tiberius Caesar and what was his significance in the biblical narrative?

Tiberius Caesar was the Roman Emperor at the time of Jesus' ministry, and his reign marked a significant period in world history, as noted in Luke 3:1, and is also referenced in other historical accounts, such as in the writings of Roman historian Tacitus, and in the Bible, in John 19:12-13, where Pontius Pilate's role is discussed.

What can we learn from the fact that the Word of God came to John in the wilderness, as mentioned in the surrounding verse, Luke 3:2?

This highlights God's ability to speak to us in unexpected places, as seen in Exodus 3:1-4:17, where Moses encountered God in the wilderness, and in 1 Kings 19:1-18, where Elijah heard God's voice in a quiet, remote location, demonstrating that God can speak to us anywhere, regardless of our circumstances.

How does this verse relate to the broader theme of God's plan of salvation?

This verse sets the stage for the ministry of John the Baptist, who prepared the way for Jesus, as prophesied in Isaiah 40:3 and Malachi 3:1, and ultimately points to the fulfillment of God's plan of salvation through Jesus Christ, as seen in Luke 3:3 and subsequent verses, and in other passages like Romans 5:8 and 2 Corinthians 5:21.

Reflection Questions

What can I learn from the way God uses various people, including rulers and leaders, to accomplish His purposes, as seen in Luke 3:1 and other biblical accounts?
How can I, like John the Baptist, prepare the way for others to encounter Jesus, as mentioned in the surrounding verses, and what does this mean for my daily life and interactions?
What are some ways that God speaks to me in unexpected places, and how can I be more attentive to His voice, as seen in the examples of Moses and Elijah in the Bible?
What does this verse reveal about God's character, particularly His sovereignty and ability to work through human leaders, and how can I apply this to my own life and circumstances?
How can I balance my focus on the spiritual realm with my responsibilities and interactions in the physical world, as seen in the example of the rulers and leaders mentioned in Luke 3:1?

Gill's Exposition on Luke 3:1

Now in the fifteenth year of the reign of Tiberius Caesar,.... Emperor of Rome, and the third of the Caesars; Julius was the first, and Augustus the second, in whose time Christ was born, and this

Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on Luke 3:1

Now in the fifteenth year of the reign of Tiberius Caesar, Pontius Pilate being governor of Judaea, and Herod being tetrarch of Galilee, and his brother Philip tetrarch of Ituraea and of the region

Matthew Poole's Commentary on Luke 3:1

LUKE CHAPTER 3 The preaching and baptism of John. His testimony of Christ. ,20 Herod imprisons John for his free reproof. ,22 Christ is baptized, and receiveth testimony from heaven. The age and genealogy of Christ from Joseph upwards. Ver. 1,2. The evangelist having given us an account both of the birth of John the Baptist and of our Saviour, and of all the prophecies preceding and attending them both, leaving the history of our Saviour a little, cometh to give us an account of the history of John the Baptist, his entrance upon his public ministry, and fulfilling of it. John the Baptist had six months seniority of our Saviour, and probably did appear so long before him to the world as a public minister; the time of his beginning was in the fifteenth year of the reign of Tiberius Caesar. Tiberius Caesar was he who next succeeded Augustus (for all the Roman emperors after Julius Caesar were called Caesars, as all the kings of Egypt were called Pharaohs): he was as wicked a prince as most who ruled the Roman empire. Herod the Great (in whose time Christ was born) was some time since dead. Archelaus began to rule in his stead as a king, but the Romans changing the government from a monarchy to a tetrarchy, (that is, a government of four), Archelaus had only the government of Judea; Herod Antipas, another son of Herod the Great, had the government of Galilee under the title of tetrarch; Philip, another son of his, had the government of Iturea and Trachonitis, under the same title of tetrarch; and one Lysanias had the government of Abilene: all four strangers. So as at this time the Jews were all under the government of foreigners, the sceptre or government was wholly departed from Judah. Archelaus was soon after sent into France, and Pontius Pilate made procurator or governor of Judea and Samaria. Annas and Caiaphas were the high priests. By the law of God, the eldest son of the family of Aaron was to be the high priest. How there came to be at this time two high priests is not agreed amongst interpreters. Those who are curious in this inquiry may see what Mr. Pool hath collected for their satisfaction in his Synopsis. We must know, that at this time the Jews were under the power of the Romans, and all things amongst them were out of order. Some say the Jews had liberty to choose their high priest, but then their conquerors would turn him out, and sell the place to another. Others say that the high priest had his deputy, who also obtained the same title. Others think, that as they had made the high priesthood an office, to which they chose one annually, (which was by God’ s law an office for life), so the high priest of the former year still retained his title for another year. We are at no certainty in these things.

Trapp's Commentary on Luke 3:1

1 Now in the fifteenth year of the reign of Tiberius Caesar, Pontius Pilate being governor of Judaea, and Herod being tetrarch of Galilee, and his brother Philip tetrarch of Ituraea and of the region of Trachonitis, and Lysanias the tetrarch of Abilene, Ver. 1. Pontius Pilate being governor] Tacitus calleth him procurator only of Judea. But St Luke here makes little difference between his office and the imperial honour of his master Tiberius; for he useth the same word to express both, ηγεμονευοντοςηγεμονια. The Earl of Flanders counts it a great prerogative, that he writes himself Comes Dei gratia. Others only Dei clementia. The Duke of Milan, that he is the prime duke of Europe. The deputy of Ireland, that there cometh no vicegerent in Europe more near the majesty and prerogative of a king than he, &c.

Ellicott's Commentary on Luke 3:1

(1) The difficulty presented here admits of at least three explanations, (a) Joseph may have been the son of Jacob by birth, and of Heli by adoption, or conversely. (b) Jacob and Heli may have been half brothers—sons of the same mother—by different fathers, Matthan and Matthat, or these two may be different forms of the name of the same person, and one of the two brothers may have died without issue, and the other married his widow to raise up seed unto his brother. On either of these assumptions, both the genealogies give Joseph’s descent. This would be sufficient, as St. Matthew’s record shows, to place the son of Mary in the position of the heir of the house of David. We have, however, on this theory, to account for the fact that two different genealogies were treasured up in the family of Joseph; and the explanation commonly offered is natural enough. St. Matthew, it is said, gives the line of kingly succession, the names of those who were, one after another, the heirs of the royal house; St. Luke that of Joseph’s natural parentage, descending from David as the parent stock, but through the line of Nathan, and taking by adoption its place in the royal line when that had failed. The fact that from David to Salathiel St. Matthew gives us the line of kings, and St. Luke that of those who were outside the line, is so far in favour of this hypothesis. (c) A third and, as it seems to the present writer, more probable view is, that we have here the genealogy, not of Joseph, but of Mary, the words “being (as was supposed) the son of Joseph” being a parenthesis, and the first link being Jesus (the heir, and in that sense, son, of Heli). On this hypothesis, the Virgin, as well as Joseph, was of the house and lineage of David; and our Lord was literally, as well as by adoption, “of the seed of David according to the flesh” (Romans 1:3), on the mother’s side through the line of Nathan, on the reputed father’s through that of Solomon. This view has at least the merit of giving a sufficient reason for the appearance of the two different genealogies. Everything too, as we have seen in the Introduction, points to the conclusion that the materials for the first three chapters of St. Luke’s Gospel came to him through the company of devout women who gathered round the mother of Jesus; and if so, what more natural than that they should have preserved and passed on to him the document on which she rested her claim to be of David’s lineage?

Adam Clarke's Commentary on Luke 3:1

CHAPTER III. The time in which John the Baptist began to preach, 1-3. The prophecies which were fulfilled in him, 4-6. The matter and success of his preaching, 7-9; among the people, 10, 11; among the publicans, 12, 13; among the soldiers, 14. His testimony concerning Christ, 15-18. The reason why Herod put him afterwards in prison, 19, 20. He baptizes Christ, on whom the Spirit of God descends, 21, 22. Our Lord's genealogy, 23-38. NOTES ON CHAP. III. Verse 1. Fifteenth year] This was the fifteenth of his principality and thirteenth of his monarchy: for he was two years joint emperor, previously to the death of Augustus. Tiberius Caesar] This emperor succeeded Augustus, in whose reign Christ was born. He began his reign August 19, A.D. 14, reigned twenty-three years, and died March 16, A.D. 37, aged seventy eight years. He was a most infamous character. During the latter part of his reign especially, he did all the mischief he possibly could; and that his tyranny might not end with his life, he chose Caius Caligula for his successor, merely on account of his bad qualities; and of whom he was accustomed to say, This young prince will be a SERPENT to the Roman people, and a PHAETHON to the rest of mankind. Herod] This was Herod Antipas, the son of Herod the Great who murdered the innocents. It was the same Herod who beheaded John Baptist, and to whom our Lord was sent by Pilate. See the account of the Herod family in the notes on Matthew 2:1. Iturea and Trachonitis] Two provinces of Syria, on the confines of Judea. Abilene] Another province of Syria, which had its name from Abila, its chief city. These estates were left to Herod Antipas and his brother Philip by the will of their father, Herod the Great; and were confirmed to them by the decree of Augustus. That Philip was tetrarch of Trachonitis, in the fifteenth year of Tiberius, we are assured by Josephus, who says that Philip the brother of Herod died in the twentieth year of Tiberius, after he had governed Trachonitis, Batanea, and Gaulonitis thirty-seven years. Antiq. b. xviii. c. 5, s. 6. And Herod continued tetrarch of Galilee till he was removed by Caligula, the successor of Tiberius. Antiq. b. xviii. c. 8, s. 2. That Lysanius was tetrarch of Abilene is also evident from Josephus. He continued in this government till the Emperor Claudius took it from him, A.D. 42, and made a present of it to Agrippa. See Antiq. b. xix. c. 5, s. 1. Tetrarch signifies the ruler of the fourth part of a country. See Clarke on Matthew 14:1.

Cambridge Bible on Luke 3:1

Ch. Luke 3:1-9. Baptism and Preaching of John the Baptist1. in the fifteenth year of the reign of Tiberius Cesar] If the accession of Tiberius be dated from the death of Augustus, Aug. 19, a.u.c. 767, this would make our Lord thirty-two at His baptism. St Luke, however, follows a common practice in dating the reign of Tiberius from the period of his association with Augustus as joint Emperor a.u.c. 765. (Tac. Ann. i. 3; Suet. Aug. 97; Vell. Paterc. 103.) Our Lord’s baptism thus took place in a.u.c. 780.Tiberius Cesar] The stepson and successor of Augustus. At this period of his reign he retired to the island of Capreae (Tac. Ann. iv. 74), where he plunged into horrible private excesses, while his public administration was most oppressive and sanguinary. The recent attempts to defend his character break down under the accumulated and unanimous weight of ancient testimony.Pontius Pilate] He was Procurator for ten years, a. d. 25–36. His predecessors had been Coponius (a. d. 6–10), M. Ambivius, Annius Rufus, and Valerius Gratus (a. d. 14–25). He was succeeded by Marcellus, Fadus, Tiberius Alexander, Cumanus, Felix, Festus, Albinus and Florus. For an account of him see on Luke 23:1.governor] His strict title was epitropos or Procurator (Jos. Antt. xx. 6, § 2), which does not however occur in the N. T. except in the sense of ‘steward’ (Luke 8:3). Hegemon was a more general term. (Matthew 10:18; 1 Peter 2:14.) His relation to the Herods was much the same as that of the Viceroy of India to the subject Maharajahs.Herod] Herod Antipas, the son of Herod the Great and the Samaritan lady Malthace. He retained his kingdom for more than 40 years, at the end of which he was banished (a. d. 39) to Lugdunum (probably St Bertrand de Comminges), chiefly through the machinations of his nephew Herod Agrippa I. (the Herod of Act 12:1). See the Stemma Herodum on p. 39, and for further particulars of his character see on Luke 13:32.tetrarch] The word properly means a ruler of a fourth part of a country, but afterwards was used for any tributary prince or ethnarch. At this time Judaea, Samaria and Galilee were the provinces of Judaea. Antipas, Philip and Lysanias are the only three to whom the term ‘tetrarch’ is applied in the N. T. Antipas also had the courtesy-title of ‘king’ (Mark 6:14, &c.), and it was in the attempt to get this title officially confirmed to him that he paid the visit to Rome which ended in his banishment. He was tetrarch for more than 40 years, from b. c. 4 to a. d. 39.of Galilee] This province is about 25 miles from North to South, and 27 from East to West,—about the size of Bedfordshire. Lower Galilee included the district from the plain of Akka to the shores of the Sea of Galilee, and was mainly composed of the rich plain of Esdraelon (or Jezreel). Upper Galilee included the mountain range between the Upper Jordan and Phoenicia.

Barnes' Notes on Luke 3:1

Now in the fifteenth year - This was the “thirteenth” year of his being sole emperor. He was “two” years joint emperor with Augustus, and Luke reckons from the time when he was admitted to share the empire with Augustus Caesar.

Whedon's Commentary on Luke 3:1

1. Now—As in his preface, Luke 1:1-3, so here, Luke exhibits the true historical spirit. Christianity is a religion of facts. It stands in its place in history. It is neither theory, nor legend, nor myth.

Sermons on Luke 3:1

	Sermon	Description
	Fire - Prayer Meeting (Cd Quality) by Leonard Ravenhill	In this sermon, the speaker describes a powerful and impactful premiere event. They mention a white-haired lady who was sitting in a wheelchair and didn't know anyone's names, but
	The Baptism of Fire by Leonard Ravenhill	In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the need for a spiritual awakening and revival. He encourages the congregation to desire this revival with all their heart, soul, mind, and
	A People Prepared for the Lord by Stephen Kaung	In this sermon, a retired missionary to a foreign land is given the opportunity to speak on repentance. The audience, consisting of religious and learned individuals, had become co
	Repentance From Root of Sin by Zac Poonen	In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of repentance in the Christian faith. He highlights the need for believers to turn away from idols and fully devote themselve
	(Luke) 11 - Baptism of Christ by Ed Miller	In this sermon, the speaker focuses on the corrupt state of both the political society and religious leadership during the time of John the Baptist. The multitudes, tax gatherers,
	John the Baptist and the Brood of Vipers by John Piper	John Piper preaches on the significance of John the Baptist's ministry as a prophet sent by God to prepare the way for Jesus, emphasizing the call to repentance for the forgiveness
	The Representative Man by G.W. North	G.W. North emphasizes the concept of Jesus Christ as the Representative Man, illustrating how He serves as both the eternal Son of God and the ultimate example for humanity. He hig