Luke 3:12

12 Tax collectors also came to be baptized. "Teacher," they asked, "what should 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 "Then what should we do?" the crowd asked.

11 John answered, "If you have extra clothes, you should share with those who have none. And if you have extra food, you should do the same."

12 Tax collectors also came to be baptized. "Teacher," they asked, "what should we do?"

13 "Don't collect any more than you are required to," John told them.

14 Then some soldiers asked him, "And what should we do?" John replied, "Don't force people to give you money. Don't bring false charges against people. Be happy with your pay."