Luke 3:11

"The multitudes asked him, “What then must we do?”"

Key Reflection

In first-century Palestine, when the people asked John the Baptist, "What then must we do?" they were likely seeking practical steps to repent and prepare for the coming kingdom of God. This question reflects a context where social and religious reforms were anticipated, and the audience was looking for concrete actions rather than abstract theology.

From the Scholars: Barnes' Notes

Verse 11.He {h} that hath two coats, &c. Or, in other words, aid the poor according to your ability; be benevolent, and you will thus show that your repentance is genuine. It is remarkable that one of the first demands of religion is to do good, and it is in this way that it may be shown that the repentance is not feigned. For 1st. The nature of religion is to do good. 2nd. This requires self-denial, and none will deny themselves who are not attached to God. And 3rd. This is to imitate Jesus Christ, who, though he was rich, yet for our sakes became poor. Coats See Barnes on "Mt 5:40". Meat. Provision of any kind.

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