Luke 3:16
Verse
Context
The Mission of John the Baptist
15The people were waiting expectantly and were all wondering in their hearts if John could be the Christ. 16John answered all of them: “I baptize you with water, but One more powerful than I will come, the straps of whose sandals I am not worthy to untie. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and with fire.17His winnowing fork is in His hand to clear His threshing floor and to gather the wheat into His barn; but He will burn up the chaff with unquenchable fire.”
Sermons







Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
On these verses see Mat 3:11, Mat 3:12, and Mar 1:7, Mar 1:8, and particularly the note on Joh 3:5 (note).
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
John answered--either to the deputation from Jerusalem (see Joh 1:19, &c.), or on some other occasion, simply to remove impressions derogatory to his blessed Master which he knew to be taking hold of the popular mind. (Also see on Mat 3:10.) saying unto them all--in solemn protestation. So far from entertaining such a thought as laying claim to the honors of Messiahship, the meanest services I can render to that "Mightier than I that is coming after me," are too high an honor for me. Beautiful spirit, distinguishing this servant of Christ throughout! one mightier than I--"the Mighter than I."
John Gill Bible Commentary
John answered, saying unto them all,.... For some of them might not only so think in their hearts, but express with their mouths the apprehension they had of him; and might put the question to him, as the priests and Levites from Jerusalem afterwards did; or he might know the secret thoughts of their hearts by divine revelation; or be apprized by his disciples of the private sentiments of the people concerning him: and therefore, to put them out of doubt, and that he might not have an honour conferred on him, which did not belong to him, he addressed himself, in a very public manner, to the whole multitude, in the hearing of them all: though the word "all" is left out in the Syriac and Persic versions, but rightly retained in others, being in all copies, and having a considerable emphasis on it: and said the following words. I indeed baptize you with water; Matthew adds "unto repentance"; upon the profession of repentance: but one mightier than I cometh; that is, after me; as Matthew records it: the latchet of whose shoes I am not worthy to unloose; neither to bear his shoes after him, as Matthew says, nor to untie his shoe string, or unbuckle his shoe, both which were menial actions with the Jews: he shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost, and with fire; as he did some of their nation, his own disciples, on the day of pentecost; See Gill on Mat 3:11
Tyndale Open Study Notes
3:16 I’m not even worthy to be his slave and untie the straps of his sandals: The untying of sandals was done only by slaves (to make this connection clear, the NLT adds be his slave and). John thus greatly honored the Messiah. • baptize you with the Holy Spirit and with fire: The Old Testament prophets predicted that in the last days, God would pour out his Spirit on his people (Isa 32:15, Ezek 36:28-29; Joel 2:28). This prophecy was at least partially fulfilled on the day of Pentecost (Acts 2). Fire is an image of judgment (see Luke 3:9); it also has the power to cleanse and refine God’s people (see 1 Cor 3:10-15; cp. Isa 4:4; Mal 3:2).
Luke 3:16
The Mission of John the Baptist
15The people were waiting expectantly and were all wondering in their hearts if John could be the Christ. 16John answered all of them: “I baptize you with water, but One more powerful than I will come, the straps of whose sandals I am not worthy to untie. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and with fire.17His winnowing fork is in His hand to clear His threshing floor and to gather the wheat into His barn; but He will burn up the chaff with unquenchable fire.”
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
Washed With Fire
By Leonard Ravenhill12K1:18:02Baptism Of The Holy SpiritISA 40:4MAT 3:11LUK 3:16JHN 3:161CO 3:13HEB 12:29REV 3:15In this sermon, the preacher shares a story about a woman who worked in Africa and lived in a humble bamboo house. Despite facing potential dangers in the jungle, she had faith and trusted in God's protection. The preacher also talks about attending a meeting where people were sleeping and the preacher couldn't continue. However, a little woman with her legs swinging kept the energy alive. The sermon emphasizes the importance of repentance and highlights the unique qualities of John the Baptist, who was a powerful and influential figure in spreading the message of repentance.
Purity and Fire - Part 1
By Leonard Ravenhill9.6K29:23PurityEXO 28:2MAL 4:5MAT 3:11MAT 6:33MAT 11:5LUK 3:16JHN 3:16In this sermon, the speaker shares stories of revival and the power of prayer. He talks about a meeting where there was no piano, but the presence of God was felt through the music and singing. He mentions a young boy who prayed for a long time and quoted Psalm 24, which became key to the revival. The speaker also discusses the importance of prayer and the need for spiritual revival in the church.
John Baptist , the Fire of God - Part 1
By Leonard Ravenhill6.9K42:48RevivalJohn The BaptistBaptism Of The Holy SpiritPSA 51:10ISA 6:8MAL 3:1MAT 3:11LUK 3:16JHN 3:30ACT 1:81TH 5:19HEB 12:29JAS 4:8Leonard Ravenhill passionately preaches about John the Baptist as a fiery messenger of God, emphasizing the need for personal revival and the baptism of the Holy Spirit with fire. He calls for believers to seek God earnestly, to break down the walls of unbelief and doubt in their lives, and to be consumed by the divine fire of God. Ravenhill highlights the urgency of the hour, urging the church to awaken to its calling and to be filled with the Holy Spirit, as John the Baptist was, to prepare the way for the Lord. He stresses that true revival comes not from programs or strategies but from a deep, intimate relationship with God that ignites a passion for holiness and repentance. The preacher concludes with a call to action, encouraging the congregation to respond to God's invitation and to seek His presence above all else.
Baptismal of Fire
By Leonard Ravenhill6.3K1:25:01Baptism Of FireEXO 34:6MAT 3:2MAT 4:17LUK 3:16JHN 3:16ACT 2:37ACT 2:40In this sermon, the preacher describes a powerful testimony given by a woman named Lizzy Smith. Despite her small stature, Lizzy's testimony transformed the atmosphere of the meeting and brought the presence of the Holy Spirit. The preacher emphasizes the importance of preaching with conviction and delivering the message of repentance. They contrast this with the modern approach of relying on films and entertainment to attract crowds, highlighting the need for the wind and fire of the Holy Spirit. The sermon also references biblical figures like John the Baptist and the dramatic impact of wind and fire in nature.
(A Divine Visitation) Hope Renewed
By Richard Owen Roberts4.8K1:19:31LUK 3:16ACT 3:19JUD 1:24In this sermon, the preacher discusses the concept of repentance and the opportunity for sinners to turn to God. He references five scriptures, including the book of Jude, to emphasize the importance of repentance and the power of God in bringing about revival. The preacher also highlights the compassion and forgiveness shown by Peter and John towards those who crucified Jesus, and encourages other preachers to examine their own effectiveness in leading people to repentance. The sermon emphasizes the need for confrontational preaching that moves people to repentance and a genuine transformation of heart.
The Baptism of the Spirit
By L.E. Maxwell2.8K59:19MAT 3:11MRK 1:8LUK 3:16JHN 1:33ACT 1:5ACT 10:44ROM 6:3In this sermon, the speaker discusses the importance of the Holy Ghost and its manifestation through speaking in tongues. He refers to the story of Peter and the Gentiles in Acts 10, where the Holy Ghost fell on them just as it did on the disciples at Pentecost. The speaker emphasizes that the Holy Ghost is not limited to a specific group of people, but is available to all who believe. He also mentions the revival in Samaria and the need for the Holy Ghost to be implanted in believers for true transformation.
Baptism of Suffering
By Edgar F. Parkyns2.2K1:04:12SufferingMAT 3:11MAT 10:16MAT 10:22LUK 3:16JHN 1:6JHN 1:9In this sermon, the preacher focuses on the words of John the Baptist as recorded in Luke 3:16. John declares that there is someone mightier than him who will baptize with the Holy Spirit and fire. The preacher emphasizes the importance of self-examination and repentance in response to the message of John the Baptist. He also highlights the role of John as the herald of Jesus Christ and the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies. The sermon concludes with the proclamation of Jesus as the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world.
The Holy Spirit as Our Helper
By Zac Poonen2.1K1:28:28Holy SpiritMAT 1:21MAT 3:11MRK 1:8LUK 3:16JHN 1:33ACT 1:51CO 14:3In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of questioning and testing the teachings we encounter. He encourages listeners to examine whether the teachings align with God's word and the spirit of Christ. The speaker also highlights the danger of being slaves to prejudice and choosing to remain in a self-made prison rather than embracing the revelation of God's word. He addresses the controversy over different terminologies used to describe the experience of becoming a child of God, emphasizing that the key is to love and obey Jesus. The sermon concludes with a warning about the downward spiral that occurs when people reject the truth of God and pursue false experiences in the name of the Holy Spirit.
Encounter With a Holy God
By Richard Owen Roberts1.6K50:38PSA 90:2PSA 90:4PRO 3:34ISA 57:15ISA 66:2MAT 23:12LUK 3:16PHP 2:3JAS 4:101PE 5:5This sermon delves into the reasons behind Israel's continual wandering from God despite witnessing His incredible works, emphasizing the importance of humility, contrition, and brokenness before God. It challenges listeners to reflect on their own spiritual state and the need to maintain a humble and contrite spirit to experience God's reviving presence in their lives.
The Horizon of Christ - Part 4
By T. Austin-Sparks1.5K41:16ChristMAT 3:11MAT 6:33MRK 1:4LUK 3:16JHN 1:29ACT 2:38REV 21:2In this sermon, the speaker explores the concept of Christ being the ultimate purpose and representative of God's creation. The sermon begins by discussing how God chose Abraham to be the first of a people who would receive His blessings. Abraham went through a process of discipline to bring him to a place of complete reliance on God. The sermon then delves into the significance of Jesus' baptism and the role of John the Baptist as his forerunner. The speaker emphasizes the importance of understanding what God is doing in our lives and the challenges and trials we may face as part of our spiritual journey.
We Need God (Compilation)
By Compilations1.3K19:09CompilationISA 6:1MAT 6:33MRK 12:30LUK 3:16ACT 2:3ROM 12:11REV 3:20In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of not losing the fire and passion for God. He urges preachers who have become too focused on organizing and have lost their zeal to humble themselves and seek God's intervention. The preacher reminds the congregation that God will not beg at their door but instead mercifully knocks, calling them to repentance and surrender. He encourages everyone to cry out to God, asking what they should do to be on fire for Him. The sermon references hymns and quotes from Charles Wesley and John Wesley, highlighting the desire for a constant flame of love and devotion to God.
The Three Prayers (Part 4)
By Ron Bailey1.3K1:09:51Prayer ExampleISA 4:4ZEC 13:4MAT 3:11MAT 3:17MRK 1:7MRK 14:27LUK 3:16In this sermon, the speaker focuses on the story of Isaiah and his encounter with God's judgment upon Babylon. Isaiah is overwhelmed with fear as he witnesses the destruction that will befall the city. The speaker draws parallels between Isaiah's experience and the book of Revelation, emphasizing the significance of Babylon's fall. The sermon also highlights the sacrificial love of God, as demonstrated through the giving of His only Son for the salvation of humanity. The speaker concludes by emphasizing the importance of recognizing Jesus as either crucified or crowned, with no other options available.
John the Baptist's Introduction of Jesus as the Sin Bearer
By Ron Bailey1.3K41:29Sin BearerLUK 3:16JHN 1:19JHN 1:23JHN 1:29JHN 1:31JHN 1:34In this sermon, John is described as a voice crying in the wilderness, preparing the way for God. The analogy is made to the preparations made for a king's visit, where mountains are leveled and valleys filled to ensure a clear view of the king's procession. John's role is to make sure people have a clear view of the coming king, Jesus. Jesus is introduced as the Lamb of God who takes away the world's sin, which is his chief characteristic. The sermon emphasizes that Jesus' purpose is to take away sin and reconcile people with God, and that he accomplished this through his death on the cross.
Personal Revival
By Graham Harrison1.2K1:01:39Personal RevivalPSA 115:1ISA 61:1LUK 3:16JHN 3:34ACT 1:8ACT 2:1ROM 8:15In this sermon, the speaker discusses how God has used individuals throughout history to bring about significant changes. He references the example of John the Baptist, who preached repentance and baptism for the remission of sins. The speaker then highlights the impact of Martin Luther, who nailed 95 theses to a church door and began preaching and writing, leading to a transformation in Europe. He also mentions the influence of George Whitfield, Howell Harris, Daniel Rowland, Charles Wesley, and John Wesley in spreading the message of repentance and faith. Lastly, the speaker shares the story of three young men in the 18th century who were used by God to bring about a revival, resulting in countless people coming to know God and altering the course of history.
Baptism in Suffering
By Anton Bosch91343:13BaptismMAT 5:11MAT 10:24LUK 3:16JHN 1:272CO 11:26In this sermon, the speaker discusses the various sufferings and hardships that he has endured for the sake of Christ. He mentions being beaten, stoned, shipwrecked, and facing dangers from both robbers and false brethren. Despite these trials, he encourages believers to rejoice in their sufferings, as it is a sign of being counted worthy for Christ. The speaker emphasizes the importance of looking to Jesus as the author and finisher of our faith, who will see us through to the end and bring us to a place of joy and no more suffering in heaven.
The Holy Spirit
By Friedel Stegen79100:00Holy SpiritLUK 3:16JHN 20:21ACT 2:4ACT 4:13In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of having compassion for others, just as Jesus did. He urges listeners to have a desire to draw closer to Jesus and be conformed into his image. The preacher also highlights the need for Christians, especially preachers, to experience the power of God in their everyday lives and to be united in spreading the gospel. He expresses a longing for leaders, including President Obama, to turn to Christ and for a global revival where Christians can stand together against the enemy.
The Fire of Preparation
By Lance Lambert6971:08:41EXO 3:1LUK 3:16This sermon emphasizes the importance of being filled with the fire of God's Spirit, drawing parallels from biblical accounts like Moses encountering God in the burning bush, the outpouring of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost, and the need for believers to be living sacrifices. The speaker highlights the transformative power of God's fire in individuals and throughout history, urging listeners to seek a renewed passion and zeal for the Lord.
The Promise of the Father
By R.E. Carroll68135:07LEV 6:13NUM 14:8DEU 4:1JOL 2:23LUK 3:16LUK 24:49JHN 7:37In this sermon, the speaker discusses the promise of the Father, which is a theme that runs throughout the scriptures. They mention testimonies of people who have experienced wholeness and salvation, but emphasize that there is more to it than just that. The speaker then reads various scriptures that point to this promise, including passages from the Old Testament and the New Testament. They highlight the importance of being baptized with the Holy Ghost and with fire, and encourage the listeners to wait in Jerusalem for the power from on high.
The Holy Spirit in the Believer
By Richard Owen Roberts6311:24:26Holy SpiritLUK 3:16In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of the Holy Spirit in the life of a believer. He highlights that the task of the church is not to persuade others, but to authentically bear witness to the truth of God. The speaker also encourages believers to acknowledge that their salvation is not based on their own efforts, but on the glorious work of God. He concludes by urging young men and women to be determined to see the blessing of God return to the land and to believe that God can bring about change.
Luke 3:1 - Divine Visitations
By Richard Owen Roberts6061:43:01LUK 3:9LUK 3:16This sermon based on Luke chapter 3 focuses on the importance of preparing the way for the Lord by bearing fruits in keeping with repentance. John the Baptist emphasizes the need for humility, honesty, integrity, and contentment in various aspects of life. The sermon highlights the significance of the baptism of the Holy Spirit and fire, symbolizing power, purity, and passion in the believer's life. It challenges individuals to believe in the finished work of Christ, leading to sanctification and a life marked by holiness and zeal for God.
The Legend of the King's Sword
By E.A. Johnston39418:05Christian LifeJER 6:16MAT 6:33LUK 3:16ACT 1:8EPH 6:172TI 3:16HEB 4:12In this sermon, the preacher tells a story about a young prince who is captured by an evil enemy force, leaving his kingdom and the villagers under bondage. After the death of the old king, the prince is unable to assume the throne due to his captivity. In his hovel, the prince discovers his father's old sword, which he initially considers ordinary and heavy. However, when he dreams of being a king and fights with the sword, he realizes its power and uses it to defeat his enemies. Word spreads among the villagers, and the evil ruler is eventually defeated, setting the captives free and making the prince the new king. The preacher uses this story to emphasize the importance of returning to the old paths and relying on the power of God rather than new methodologies.
Miracles That Follow the Plow - a.w. Tozer
By From the Pulpit & Classic Sermons35641:45RadioHOS 10:12MAT 13:23LUK 3:16JHN 4:35ACT 2:1EPH 5:27REV 22:2In this sermon, A.W. Tozer discusses the importance of breaking up the fallow ground in our lives in order to seek the Lord. He explains that sowing, reaping, and reigning upon the broken ground are all understood concepts, but the word "fallow" needs to be explained. Tozer uses the biblical sense of fallow to describe a life that is barren and contented, without fruit or blossoms. He emphasizes the need to listen to the voice of God and take action to bring about a spiritual greenup, a time of renewal and growth in our lives.
The Greatest Man Who Ever Lived
By Leonard Ravenhill521:32:16RevivalChristian LifeProphetic Voice2CH 7:14MAL 3:2MAT 11:11LUK 3:16JHN 3:30ACT 1:8ROM 12:11TH 5:19HEB 12:29JAS 5:16Leonard Ravenhill emphasizes the significance of John the Baptist as the greatest man who ever lived, highlighting his role as a prophet during a time of spiritual darkness and silence. He contrasts the prophetic voice of John with the complacency of the church today, urging believers to seek a genuine revival and a deeper relationship with God. Ravenhill warns against the dangers of unbelief and laziness in spiritual life, calling for a return to fervent prayer and repentance. He stresses that true greatness is found in being great in the sight of God, not in worldly accolades or achievements. The sermon serves as a powerful reminder of the need for the Holy Spirit's fire to purify and energize the church in these challenging times.
Jesus' Eyes of Fire, Part 2
By Mike Bickle2155:12Intimacy With GodJesus' NatureJOB 34:21PSA 27:8PRO 15:3MAL 3:2LUK 3:16LUK 24:32HEB 4:13HEB 12:29REV 1:13REV 2:19Mike Bickle emphasizes the significance of Jesus' 'eyes of fire' in Revelation, which symbolize His omniscience, passionate desire, and ability to purify and judge. He explains that these eyes see everything, penetrate our hearts, and reveal God's consuming love and jealousy for His people. Bickle encourages believers to seek intimacy with Jesus by focusing on His face, which leads to a deeper understanding of His heart and a transformative experience of His fire. The sermon highlights the dual nature of Jesus' fire as both a source of empowerment and a means of judgment, urging the church to embrace His presence with reverence and love.
He Shall Baptise You With the Holy Ghost
By G.W. North0Jesus as the BaptizerBaptism Of The Holy SpiritMAT 3:11LUK 3:16JHN 1:29JHN 3:34ACT 1:5ACT 2:4ROM 8:91CO 12:13GAL 5:22EPH 4:30G.W. North emphasizes the significance of John the Baptist's proclamation that Jesus is the Baptizer with the Holy Spirit, noting that while John called people to his baptism for forgiveness, he did not direct them to Christ for it. This indicates John's understanding of Jesus' mission as far greater than mere forgiveness; He came to remove sin entirely. North highlights that the Gospel writers focused on this aspect of Jesus' ministry, suggesting a divine emphasis on the transformative power of the Holy Spirit. The absence of references to the cross in John's message points to a deeper spiritual reality that should not be overlooked. This sermon challenges believers to recognize the profound implications of being baptized with the Holy Spirit.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
On these verses see Mat 3:11, Mat 3:12, and Mar 1:7, Mar 1:8, and particularly the note on Joh 3:5 (note).
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
John answered--either to the deputation from Jerusalem (see Joh 1:19, &c.), or on some other occasion, simply to remove impressions derogatory to his blessed Master which he knew to be taking hold of the popular mind. (Also see on Mat 3:10.) saying unto them all--in solemn protestation. So far from entertaining such a thought as laying claim to the honors of Messiahship, the meanest services I can render to that "Mightier than I that is coming after me," are too high an honor for me. Beautiful spirit, distinguishing this servant of Christ throughout! one mightier than I--"the Mighter than I."
John Gill Bible Commentary
John answered, saying unto them all,.... For some of them might not only so think in their hearts, but express with their mouths the apprehension they had of him; and might put the question to him, as the priests and Levites from Jerusalem afterwards did; or he might know the secret thoughts of their hearts by divine revelation; or be apprized by his disciples of the private sentiments of the people concerning him: and therefore, to put them out of doubt, and that he might not have an honour conferred on him, which did not belong to him, he addressed himself, in a very public manner, to the whole multitude, in the hearing of them all: though the word "all" is left out in the Syriac and Persic versions, but rightly retained in others, being in all copies, and having a considerable emphasis on it: and said the following words. I indeed baptize you with water; Matthew adds "unto repentance"; upon the profession of repentance: but one mightier than I cometh; that is, after me; as Matthew records it: the latchet of whose shoes I am not worthy to unloose; neither to bear his shoes after him, as Matthew says, nor to untie his shoe string, or unbuckle his shoe, both which were menial actions with the Jews: he shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost, and with fire; as he did some of their nation, his own disciples, on the day of pentecost; See Gill on Mat 3:11
Tyndale Open Study Notes
3:16 I’m not even worthy to be his slave and untie the straps of his sandals: The untying of sandals was done only by slaves (to make this connection clear, the NLT adds be his slave and). John thus greatly honored the Messiah. • baptize you with the Holy Spirit and with fire: The Old Testament prophets predicted that in the last days, God would pour out his Spirit on his people (Isa 32:15, Ezek 36:28-29; Joel 2:28). This prophecy was at least partially fulfilled on the day of Pentecost (Acts 2). Fire is an image of judgment (see Luke 3:9); it also has the power to cleanse and refine God’s people (see 1 Cor 3:10-15; cp. Isa 4:4; Mal 3:2).