New Testament
Luke 3:7
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Crowds of people came out to be baptized by John, but he confronted them: "You brood of vipers! Who warned you to run from the coming wrath?
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Then said he to the multitude that came forth to be baptized of him, O generation of vipers, who hath warned you to flee from the wrath to come?
What Luke 3:7 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, John the Baptist addresses a large crowd that has come to him for baptism. He calls them a "brood of vipers," which is a strong rebuke indicating that they are deceitful and dangerous. John questions their motives for coming to him, suggesting that they may be trying to escape judgment without true repentance. His mention of "the coming wrath" refers to the impending judgment of God, emphasizing the seriousness of their spiritual state. John is not merely performing a ritual; he is calling for genuine change and repentance. This sets the tone for his ministry, which focuses on preparing the way for Jesus by urging people to turn away from their sins and seek a true relationship with God. The harsh language serves to wake the people up to their need for transformation rather than just a superficial act of baptism.
How to apply Luke 3:7 to your life
This verse challenges us to examine our own motives for seeking spiritual experiences. Are we genuinely repenting and seeking a relationship with God, or are we merely going through the motions? True faith requires a heartfelt change and commitment to live according to God's will.
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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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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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 3:7 mean?
In Luke 3:7, John the Baptist addresses a crowd coming for baptism, calling them a 'brood of vipers.' This indicates he sees them as deceitful and questions their true intentions, emphasizing the need for genuine repentance before seeking baptism.
What is the meaning of 'brood of vipers' in Luke 3:7?
The phrase 'brood of vipers' in Luke 3:7 is a strong rebuke from John the Baptist, suggesting that the people are dangerous and deceitful. It highlights his concern that they may be trying to escape God's judgment without true change in their hearts.
What does 'the coming wrath' refer to in Luke 3:7?
In Luke 3:7, 'the coming wrath' refers to God's impending judgment on those who do not genuinely repent. John the Baptist warns the crowd that they need to prepare their hearts for this judgment by turning away from their sins.
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