Luke 3:21

Jesus’ baptism

21 When everyone was being baptized, Jesus also was baptized. While he was praying, heaven was opened

Luke 3:21 Meaning and Commentary

Luke 3:21

Now when all the people were baptized
That came from several parts to John for this purpose, even as many as he judged to be proper subjects of that ordinance, as many of the common people, publicans, soldiers

it came to pass that Jesus also being baptized;
of John in Jordan, he coming from Galilee thither on that account:

and praying;
after he was baptized, for the coming down of the Spirit upon him, as man, to anoint, and qualify him for his office he was now about to enter on publicly: and for success in it, and for a testimony from heaven, that he was the Son of God, and true Messiah:

the heaven was opened;
(See Gill on Matthew 3:16).

Luke 3:21 In-Context

19 But Herod the ruler had been criticized harshly by John because of Herodias, Herod's brother's wife, and because of all the evil he had done.

20 He added this to the list of his evil deeds: he locked John up in prison.

21 When everyone was being baptized, Jesus also was baptized. While he was praying, heaven was opened

22 and the Holy Spirit came down on him in bodily form like a dove. And there was a voice from heaven: "You are my Son, whom I dearly love; in you I find happiness."

23 Jesus was about 30 years old when he began his ministry. People supposed that he was the son of Joseph son of Heli