New Testament
Luke 3:22
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
and the Holy Spirit came down on him in a bodily shape like a dove. Then a voice spoke from heaven: "You are my beloved Son; in you I am well pleased."
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And the Holy Ghost descended in a bodily shape like a dove upon him, and a voice came from heaven, which said, Thou art my beloved Son; in thee I am well pleased.
What Luke 3:22 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, we see a significant moment in Jesus' life when he is baptized by John the Baptist. As he comes out of the water, the Holy Spirit descends upon him in the form of a dove, symbolizing God's approval and the empowerment of Jesus for his ministry. This event is accompanied by a voice from heaven, which is God affirming Jesus as His beloved Son. The phrase 'in you I am well pleased' indicates God's delight in Jesus and His mission. This moment marks the beginning of Jesus' public ministry and highlights the divine confirmation of his identity and purpose. The imagery of the dove represents peace and the presence of the Holy Spirit, emphasizing the importance of spiritual guidance in Jesus' life and work. This passage is foundational for understanding the relationship between Jesus and God, as well as the role of the Holy Spirit in the life of believers.
How to apply Luke 3:22 to your life
This verse encourages believers to seek the Holy Spirit's guidance in their lives. Just as Jesus was affirmed and empowered for his mission, we too can find strength and purpose through our relationship with God. Embrace your identity as a beloved child of God.
Curated for this public verse page. Luke Summary
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Illustrated scene from Jesus's story: The Baptism of Jesus (Luke 3:21–22)
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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 3:22
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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 3:22 mean?
Luke 3:22 describes the moment when Jesus is baptized and the Holy Spirit descends upon him in the form of a dove. This signifies God's approval of Jesus and marks the beginning of his public ministry.
What is the significance of the dove in Luke 3:22?
The dove in Luke 3:22 symbolizes peace and the presence of the Holy Spirit. Its descent upon Jesus represents divine empowerment and affirmation for his mission.
What does the voice from heaven say in Luke 3:22?
In Luke 3:22, the voice from heaven declares, 'You are my beloved Son; in you I am well pleased.' This statement affirms Jesus' identity as God's Son and highlights God's delight in him.
How does Luke 3:22 relate to Jesus' ministry?
Luke 3:22 marks a pivotal moment in Jesus' life, as it signifies the start of his public ministry. The affirmation from God and the descent of the Holy Spirit equip Jesus for the work ahead.
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