Luke 3:12

12 Then came also publicans to be baptized, and said unto him, "Master, what shall we do?"

Luke 3:12 Meaning and Commentary

Luke 3:12

Then came also publicans to be baptized
Being convinced under John's ministry of the evils of their past life, and desirous of being admitted to baptism, to which they understood repentance, and fruits meet for the same, were pre-requisite: these came nearer to John,

and said unto him, master, what shall we do?
we have been very wicked persons, what shall we do to escape divine vengeance? or what are the particular duties we are to perform? or the fruits meet for repentance, we are to bring forth; that so we may be admitted to the ordinance of baptism, which requires, as previous to it, a true and hearty repentance? of these men,

(See Gill on Matthew 5:46) (See Gill on Matthew 9:9) (See Gill on Matthew 9:10) (See Gill on Matthew 9:11)

Luke 3:12 In-Context

10 And the people asked him, saying, "What shall we do then?"

11 He answered and said unto them, "He that hath two coats, let him impart to him that hath none. And he that hath meat, let him do likewise."

12 Then came also publicans to be baptized, and said unto him, "Master, what shall we do?"

13 And he said unto them, "Exact no more than that which is appointed you."

14 And the soldiers likewise demanded of him, saying, "And what shall we do?" And he said unto them, "Do violence to no man, neither accuse any falsely; and be content with your wages."