New Testament

Luke 2:3

The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English

At a Glance

In this verse, we see that a decree was made for everyone to return to their hometowns for registration.

Author
Luke the physician
Written
Around AD 60-62
Genre
Gospel and history
Original Audience
Gentile Christians (addressed to Theophilus)
CBTClear Bible Translation

And everyone went to be registered, each to his own city.

KJVKing James Version

And all went to be taxed, every one into his own city.

Verse Analysis

Plain-English insight for readers

In this verse, we see that a decree was made for everyone to return to their hometowns for registration. This was part of a census ordered by the Roman authorities, which required people to go back to the city of their ancestors. The purpose of this registration was likely for taxation and governance. It highlights the importance of civic duty and the reach of Roman law during that time. This event also sets the stage for the birth of Jesus, as Mary and Joseph traveled to Bethlehem, fulfilling prophecy. The mention of each person going to their own city emphasizes the personal nature of this requirement, as it affected everyone individually. This moment in history illustrates how governmental decisions can impact the lives of ordinary people, often in significant ways. It also serves as a reminder of the historical context in which the events of Jesus' life unfolded, showing how divine plans can work through human systems and authorities.

How to apply Luke 2:3 to your life

This verse encourages us to recognize our responsibilities within society, such as fulfilling civic duties. It reminds us that our actions can have broader implications, and we should be mindful of how we contribute to our communities. Following laws and regulations can be part of living out our faith.

Curated for this public verse page. Luke Summary

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick, clear answers about this verse

What does Luke 2:3 mean?

Luke 2:3 describes a decree that required everyone to return to their hometowns for a census. This was part of a Roman registration process, likely for taxation purposes, and it emphasizes the personal impact of governmental decisions on individuals.

What is the significance of the census in Luke 2:3?

The census mentioned in Luke 2:3 highlights the reach of Roman authority and the importance of civic duty. It sets the stage for the birth of Jesus, as Mary and Joseph traveled to Bethlehem, fulfilling prophecy.

Why did people go to their own city in Luke 2:3?

People went to their own city in Luke 2:3 to comply with a Roman decree for registration. This requirement was tied to their ancestry and was essential for taxation and governance.

What does 'each to his own city' mean in Luke 2:3?

The phrase 'each to his own city' in Luke 2:3 means that every individual had to return to the city of their ancestors for the census. It emphasizes the personal nature of the registration process.

The Book of Luke
Book Summary

The Book of Luke

Luke 1: The Births of John the Baptist and Jesus Foretold

In the days of Herod, king of Judaea, a priest named Zacharias serves in the temple. He and his wife Elisabeth are both righteous but have no children because Elisabeth is barren, and they are both old. While Zacharias burns incense, the angel Gabriel appears to him and says Elisabeth will bear a son who is to be named John. The child will be great before the Lord, will drink no wine or strong drink, and will be filled with the Holy Ghost from his mother's womb. He will turn many of the children of Israel to the Lord their God. Zacharias asks how he can know this, since he and his wife are old. Gabriel says Zacharias will be unable to speak until these things come to pass because he did not believe.

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