New Testament
Luke 2:3
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
And everyone went to be registered, each to his own city.
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And all went to be taxed, every one into his own city.
What Luke 2:3 means
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
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Illustrated scene from Jesus's story: The Birth of Jesus (Luke 2:1–7)
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Jesus
Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002725045). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Nazareth, Israel; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.
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Nazareth
The small town in Galilee where Jesus grew up.
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Keep studying Luke 2:3
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Related topics
At a Glance — the Book of Luke
- Author
- Luke the physician
- Written
- Around AD 60-62
- Genre
- Gospel and history
- Original Audience
- Gentile Christians (addressed to Theophilus)
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.
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