New Testament
Luke 3:1
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It was the 15th year of the reign of Tiberius Caesar. Pontius Pilate was governor of Judaea, Herod was tetrarch of Galilee, his brother Philip was tetrarch of Ituraea and Trachonitis, and Lysanias was tetrarch of Abilene.
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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,
What Luke 3:1 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, we learn about the political context during the time of John the Baptist's ministry. It specifies that it was the 15th year of Tiberius Caesar's reign, indicating a specific historical moment. Tiberius was the Roman Emperor, and his governance set the stage for the events in the New Testament. The mention of Pontius Pilate as governor of Judaea highlights the Roman authority in the region, while Herod and his brother Philip's roles as tetrarchs show the local leadership structure. This verse serves to ground the narrative in a real historical timeline, emphasizing the significance of the events that follow. By naming these leaders, the text connects the spiritual message of John the Baptist with the political realities of the time, illustrating how God's work often intersects with human history and governance. This context helps readers understand the environment in which Jesus' ministry began, showing that it was a time of both political tension and spiritual awakening.
How to apply Luke 3:1 to your life
Understanding the historical context of biblical events can deepen our faith. It reminds us that God works through real people and situations, encouraging us to recognize His presence in our own lives and the world around us.
Curated for this public verse page. Luke Summary
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Illustrated scene from Jesus's story: John the Baptist Prepares the Way (Luke 3:1–18)
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Jesus
Photo: zeevveez, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY 2.0. Source. Location: Capernaum, on the northern shore of the Sea of Galilee. Resized for the web.
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Capernaum
Jesus' home base by the Sea of Galilee, and the town where Peter lived.
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Keep studying Luke 3:1
Key themes
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 3:1 mean?
Luke 3:1 provides a historical setting for the ministry of John the Baptist, indicating it was during the 15th year of Tiberius Caesar's reign. This verse highlights the political leaders of the time, showing how the spiritual events of the New Testament are grounded in real historical circumstances.
Who were the leaders mentioned in Luke 3:1?
In Luke 3:1, the leaders mentioned are Tiberius Caesar, Pontius Pilate as governor of Judaea, Herod and his brother Philip as tetrarchs of Galilee and Ituraea, and Lysanias as tetrarch of Abilene. These figures represent the Roman and local governance during the time of John the Baptist.
What is the significance of Tiberius Caesar in Luke 3:1?
Tiberius Caesar is significant in Luke 3:1 as he was the Roman Emperor at the time, establishing the political backdrop for the events of the New Testament. His reign marks a period of Roman authority that influences the context in which Jesus and John the Baptist began their ministries.
How does Luke 3:1 relate to John the Baptist?
Luke 3:1 sets the stage for John the Baptist's ministry by providing the political context in which he preached. It emphasizes that John's message emerged during a specific historical moment, linking spiritual awakening with the realities of political leadership.
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