New Testament

Luke 3:20

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 a significant action taken by Herod, the ruler of Galilee.

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

Herod added this to everything else: he locked John up in prison.

KJVKing James Version

Added yet this above all, that he shut up John in prison.

Verse Analysis

Plain-English insight for readers

In this verse, we see a significant action taken by Herod, the ruler of Galilee. He not only dealt with various political and social issues but also made the decision to imprison John the Baptist. This act highlights Herod's fear and rejection of John's powerful message about repentance and the coming Kingdom of God. John had been a bold prophet, calling people to turn away from their sins and prepare for the Messiah. Herod's choice to lock him up signifies a broader theme of opposition to God's messengers. It illustrates how those in power may react negatively to truth and righteousness, especially when it threatens their authority or lifestyle. This moment foreshadows the eventual fate of many prophets and followers of Christ, who often faced persecution for their beliefs. The imprisonment of John serves as a reminder of the cost of standing for truth in a world that often prefers comfort and conformity over conviction.

Key themes

Related topics

repentance, anxiety, fear

How to apply Luke 3:20 to your life

This verse encourages us to stand firm in our beliefs, even when facing opposition. It reminds us that speaking the truth can lead to challenges, but we should remain steadfast in our commitment to God's message. Trusting in God’s plan is essential, even in difficult circumstances.

Curated for this public verse page. Luke Summary

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick, clear answers about this verse

What does Luke 3:20 mean?

Luke 3:20 describes how Herod, the ruler of Galilee, imprisoned John the Baptist. This action reflects Herod's rejection of John's message about repentance and highlights the theme of opposition to God's messengers.

What is the significance of John being imprisoned in Luke 3:20?

John's imprisonment in Luke 3:20 signifies the danger faced by those who speak truth to power. It illustrates how leaders may react negatively to prophetic voices that challenge their authority or lifestyle.

Why did Herod imprison John the Baptist according to Luke 3:20?

Herod imprisoned John the Baptist because he was threatened by John's bold message about repentance and the coming Kingdom of God. This act shows Herod's fear of losing control and his unwillingness to accept the truth.

What themes are present in Luke 3:20?

Luke 3:20 presents themes of opposition to truth, persecution of prophets, and the conflict between righteousness and power. It highlights how those in authority may suppress voices that challenge their status.

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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