Definition: Annas and Caiaphas being the high priests, the word of God came unto John the son of Zacharias in the wilderness.

Explanation: Okay, let's break down this passage from Luke 3:2. It’s a really important moment in the story of Jesus’ birth! Here's what it means in simple terms: Basically, this verse tells us that Jesus was born before anyone else. Let’s unpack it a little further: “Luke 3:2”: This is where the verse begins. It’s describing a specific event – a ceremony at the temple in Jerusalem. “Annas and Caiaphas being the high priests…” These were two important leaders of the Jewish temple, and they presided over religious services. Think of them as the top officials of the temple. “…the word of God came unto John the son of Zacharias in the wilderness.” This is the key part! “John the son of Zacharias” was Jesus’s father. “In the wilderness” means he was born in a remote, isolated place – away from the usual places of worship. So, what's happening? The Bible says that before Jesus was born, God sent his word (His message) to the angel Gabriel who told Mary that she would conceive and give birth to him. This was a very special event, and it happened before anyone else. Why is this important? This verse is significant because it shows that Jesus wasn't just a human baby; he was a divine being sent from God. It’s a foundational story in the Bible that establishes the belief that Jesus is God's son and the Messiah, the savior of humanity! In short, Luke 3:2 tells us that Jesus was born before anyone else, setting the stage for his incredible birth and importance in Christian faith. --- Would you like me to explain any of these points further? For example, I could go into more detail about the significance of this event in the Bible or discuss its impact on early Christianity.

Definition: Added yet this above all, that he shut up John in prison.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Luke 3:20. It’s a really important and slightly mysterious passage! Here's what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: This verse tells us that Jesus was very careful to protect John the Baptist – a man who was preparing to announce good news about the Messiah (Jesus). He made sure John wasn't released into the world, and instead, he kept him locked up. Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “Added yet this above all…” : This is a slightly dramatic way of saying “This was an important detail.” It highlights that this wasn't just any ordinary situation. “…that he shut up John in prison.” : Jesus deliberately chose to keep John locked away. He didn’t let him go freely into the world. What does it mean? There are a few possible interpretations, and it's been debated for centuries: Protection: The most common explanation is that Jesus wanted to protect John from being harmed or influenced by those who might try to discredit or stop him from revealing Jesus’ message. Teaching: Some believe this was a deliberate act of teaching. John was being held captive, and Jesus was showing him that even though he was imprisoned, his message still had power and importance. Preparing for His Ministry: It could be seen as a strategic move to prepare John for his role in announcing the arrival of Christ. Why is this important? This verse is significant because it shows Jesus’ thoughtfulness and care for his followers. It’s a reminder that Jesus doesn't just want to deliver a message; He wants to protect it and guide it. --- Do you want me to: Explain another Bible verse in more detail? Discuss the different interpretations of this verse?

Definition: Now when all the people were baptized, it came to pass, that Jesus also being baptized, and praying, the heaven was opened,

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Luke 3:21. It's a really significant moment in the story of Jesus’ ministry! Here's what it means, explained simply: Basically, Jesus is doing something that shows his humility and connection to humanity. “When all the people were baptized…” – This means Jesus was publicly immersed in water as part of a religious ceremony. It's a big deal because baptism was a central practice for Jewish people at the time. “…it came to pass, that Jesus also being baptized, and praying, the heaven was opened.” - This is the key part! “It came to pass” means something unexpected happened. And “Jesus also being baptized” shows he’s willingly participating in a religious ritual. But here's the really important part: as he was dipping into the water, he was praying . So, what does this tell us? It’s a sign of God’s presence: Opening the heavens is usually seen as a way for God to show himself and his power. It signifies that Jesus is connected to the divine. He's showing humility: By getting baptized, he was revealing himself to be human and vulnerable. It's a powerful image of surrendering to God’s will. In short, this verse describes a moment when Jesus initiated a religious ceremony, and as he did, he opened the heavens – essentially announcing his presence and connection to God. --- Do you want me to: Explain another Bible verse? Give you more context about Luke 3:21?

Definition: And the Holy Ghost descended in a bodily shape like a dove upon him, and a voice came from heaven, which said, Thou art my beloved Son; in thee I am well pleased.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this really beautiful verse from Luke 3:22. It’s a powerful moment in the story of Jesus’ birth! Here's what it means in simpler terms: Basically, it says: God is really thrilled with Jesus! Let’s unpack that a little: “The Holy Ghost descended…” – This refers to the Holy Spirit, which is one of the most important figures in Christianity. It’s often seen as a messenger or helper from God. “…in a bodily shape like a dove upon him…” – This is a really striking image. A dove is typically associated with peace and hope. So, the Holy Spirit descending on Jesus is described as appearing as a dove! It symbolizes that Jesus wasn’t just any ordinary baby; he was special, divine, and full of goodness. “And a voice came from heaven…” – This is like God speaking directly to Jesus. “…which said, Thou art my beloved Son; in thee I am well pleased.” – This is the really important part! The voice says: “You are my beloved son!” and then it adds, "In thee I am well pleased." What does that all mean? It means God is deeply happy and loves Jesus more than anything. He’s saying that Jesus is his most precious creation, and he feels a strong sense of affection for him. It's a moment of profound joy and adoration! Why is this important? This verse is often seen as a sign of Jesus’ divinity – that he is God incarnate (meaning God made flesh). It shows that God chose to come to Earth in the form of his Son, Jesus. In short: It's a beautiful expression of God’s love and joy for Jesus! --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Talk about the significance of this passage in the context of the story?

Definition: And Jesus himself began to be about thirty years of age, being (as was supposed) the son of Joseph, which was [the son] of Heli,

Explanation: Okay, let's break down that verse from Luke 3:23. It’s a really important and fascinating part of the story! Here’s what it means in simpler terms: Basically, this verse tells us that Jesus was about thirty years old when he began his ministry. Let's unpack it a bit further: “And Jesus himself began to be…” – This is telling us that Jesus was actively starting to show his power and influence. “…about thirty years of age…” – This gives us a timeframe – he was in his 30s when he started traveling and teaching. “…being (as was supposed) the son of Joseph, which was [the son] of Heli.” – This is where it gets a little more complex: “As was supposed” - This means that the story of Jesus’s birth is being recounted, and the details are being repeated. “the son of Joseph” – This refers to Joseph, who raised Jesus. “…the son of Heli” – This is a bit tricky! “Heli” was a Hebrew name for Joseph. It’s important because it connects him to the very beginning of Jesus's lineage—his father was Joseph. So, what does this tell us about Jesus? It suggests that Jesus started his ministry (teaching and doing good things) around 30 years old. It’s a significant time in his life, marking a crucial step towards becoming the central figure of Christianity. Why is this important? This verse sets up a story of divine providence – that God planned everything perfectly for Jesus to begin his work. It's a foundational moment in the Bible! --- Do you want me to: Explain another part of Luke 3:23? Discuss what this verse might mean in terms of Jesus’s journey and purpose?

Definition: Which was [the son] of Matthat, which was [the son] of Levi, which was [the son] of Melchi, which was [the son] of Janna, which was [the son] of Joseph,

Explanation: Okay, let's break down this verse from Luke 3:24. It’s a really important and fascinating part of the story of Jesus’ birth! Here’s what it means in simple terms: “Which was [the son] of Matthat, which was [the son] of Levi, which was [the son] of Melchi, which was [the son] of Janna, which was [the son] of Joseph” Basically, this verse tells us about the birth of Jesus. It’s a list of names that trace back to his ancestors – specifically, the first three men in his line. Let's unpack each name: Matthat: This is one of Jesus’s great-great-grandfathers. Levi: This was Jesus’s father. Levi was a very important figure in the Jewish tradition and was known for his service to God. Melchi: This was another ancestor of Jesus, and it's associated with royalty and leadership. Janna: This was another ancestor of Jesus, and it relates to the concept of "benevolence" or kindness. Joseph: This is the last name of Jesus’s father, and it's significant because Joseph was a man of great importance in the Old Testament. So, what does this list tell us? It tells us that Jesus was born to a lineage with deep roots in Jewish tradition. It highlights that he descended from figures who were important in the past – men like Levi and Joseph – and that this lineage played a role in his birth. Why is it significant? This list is key because it's the foundation of the story of Jesus’s birth as described in Luke 3. It shows that Jesus is part of a long line of kings, priests, and leaders who were connected to God. It also sets up the narrative of how Jesus would fulfill a prophecy about a Messiah – a king who would come from this lineage! --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Discuss the significance of this specific phrase?

Definition: Which was [the son] of Mattathias, which was [the son] of Amos, which was [the son] of Naum, which was [the son] of Esli, which was [the son] of Nagge,

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Luke 3:25. It’s a really interesting and somewhat unusual passage! Here's what it means in simple terms: Basically, this verse tells us about a baby named Jesus. Let’s unpack each part: “Which was…” : This phrase is a way of introducing a list or succession. “the son” : This refers to the first child in a line that includes several important figures. “…of Mattathias, which was…” : Mattathias was a tough and rebellious man in ancient Israel. He was known for his strict laws and punishment. “…son” : This means this baby is the son of Mattathias. “…of Amos, which was…” : Amos was another man who was known for his strong convictions and rebellion. “…son” : This is the second child in that line. “…of Naum, which was…” : Naum was a man who experienced hardship and exile. He was a survivor of a terrible event. “…son” : This is the third child in that line. “…of Esli, which was…” : Esli was a man who also lived under difficult circumstances. “…son” : This is the fourth child in that line. “…of Nagge, which was…” : Nagge was a woman with a powerful and unwavering spirit. So, Luke 3:25 says: “This baby is the son of Mattathias, the son of Amos, the son of Naum, the son of Esli, and the son of Nagge.” Why is this important? This genealogy (the line of ancestors) is significant because it’s the very foundation of Jesus' lineage. It connects him directly to the righteous people of Israel who were known for their faith and dedication to God. In a nutshell, it’s the story of how Jesus was born into a family with a strong tradition of following God’s laws. --- Do you have any specific questions about this verse that you'd like me to answer? For example, would you like me to: Explain the historical context of this passage? Discuss what it might symbolize?

Definition: Which was [the son] of Maath, which was [the son] of Mattathias, which was [the son] of Semei, which was [the son] of Joseph, which was [the son] of Juda,

Explanation: Okay, let's break down this verse from Luke 3:26. It’s a very interesting and somewhat unusual starting point for the story of Jesus’ birth! Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Verse Says: “Which was [the son] of Maath, which was [the son] of Mattathias, which was [the son] of Semei, which was [the son] of Joseph, which was [the son] of Juda.” Let's unpack each part: “Which was…” : This is a way of saying “This was…” or “This was the child of…”. “Maath” : This is an old Hebrew name, and it means "a warrior" or "a defender." It’s connected to a powerful figure in Jewish history. “Mattathias” : This is a name from the Second Temple period (around the time of Jesus). Mattathias was a tough and rebellious leader who clashed with the religious authorities. He was known for his strong sense of justice. “Semei” : Another old Hebrew name, likely related to “a son.” “Joseph” : This is a very important name – Joseph was the husband of Mary, and the father of Jesus. “Juda” : This refers to the lineage of King David, who is considered the ancestor of both the Jewish people and Jesus. Putting it all together: The verse describes the birth of Jesus , but he wasn’t born in a normal way. His father was a man named Maath, who was a rebellious warrior like Mattathias. He was the son of Mattathias, and so on… It’s a long list of names connecting him to significant figures in Jewish history! Why is this important? This genealogy connects Jesus to the Old Testament stories of kings and heroes. It shows that He is descended from a line of men who were deeply involved in religious conflict and justice – a foreshadowing of the coming Messiah (Jesus). In essence, it's a very unusual starting point for the story of Jesus’ birth because it highlights his family history, which is a central part of Jewish tradition. --- Would you like me to: Explain another verse? Discuss the significance of this genealogy in more detail?

Definition: Which was [the son] of Joanna, which was [the son] of Rhesa, which was [the son] of Zorobabel, which was [the son] of Salathiel, which was [the son] of Neri,

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Luke 3:27. It's a really interesting and somewhat mysterious detail about the birth of Jesus! Here’s what it means in simple terms: Basically, this verse tells us that Jesus was born to a family with a very long and complicated history – a lineage stretching back many generations. Let's unpack it piece by piece: “Which was…” : This is a way of saying “This is the person who was born.” “…the son…” : This means Jesus was the offspring of this particular family. “…of Joanna, which was…” : Joanna was a woman named in Luke’s account. She's mentioned as being involved with Jesus’ mother. “…of Rhesa…” : “Rhesa” is a name from the ancient Near East. It’s often linked to a powerful king or ruler. “…which was…” : Again, this refers back to the family listed before. “…of Zorobabel…” : "Zorobabel" is an ancient name for King Solomon, and it's significant because of the Temple in Jerusalem. “…which was…” : This continues to connect him to the lineage of David and Jesus’ ancestors. “…of Salathiel…” : “Salathiel” is another ancient name, linked to the kings of Judah. “…of Neri…” : "Neri" is a name that’s connected to the royal line of David. So, putting it all together: This family was incredibly important and had a long history – they were descendants of David, who was the King of Israel, and a royal line back to Solomon. Jesus was born to this particular branch of that line. Why is this significant? The fact that Jesus was born to such an unusual and ancient family line adds another layer to the story of his birth – it suggests a divine connection and perhaps a more profound beginning than simply being the firstborn son of David. It's a detail that highlights the significance of his lineage and the continuity of God’s plan. --- Do you want me to: Explain another part of this verse? Discuss why this detail is important in the context of the Bible?

Definition: Which was [the son] of Melchi, which was [the son] of Addi, which was [the son] of Cosam, which was [the son] of Elmodam, which was [the son] of Er,

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Luke 3:28. It’s a really interesting and significant piece of history in the Bible! Here's what it means, explained simply: The Basic Idea: This verse describes a baby Jesus – specifically, the birth of Jesus. It’s a very unusual and powerful way to introduce him as the son of three different powerful and influential figures. Let's unpack each part: "Which was [the son] of Melchi..." - “Melchi” is a name that means "God is my father." It’s a very important name in Jewish tradition, particularly in the Old Testament. It suggests God’s favor and blessing on the child. "...which was [the son] of Addi..." – “Addi” is another name meaning “lord.” This adds to the idea that Jesus is favored by powerful figures. "...which was [the son] of Cosam..." - “Cosam” means "a warrior." This reinforces the idea that Jesus is a strong and capable figure, perhaps destined for great things. "...which was [the son] of Elmodam..." – “Elmodam” is a name often associated with kingship and leadership. This further emphasizes his royal lineage. "...which was [the son] of Er." - “Er” means “the eldest.” This completes the list, establishing that Jesus is the son of three incredibly important and powerful ancestors. The Significance: This genealogy is a very unusual way to introduce Jesus. It's a symbolic way of saying he’s the special, chosen child of God – the "son" of God through his father, Melchi, Addi, Cosam, and Er. It emphasizes that Jesus wasn't just any baby; he was uniquely blessed by God's family. In short, it’s a foundational story that establishes Jesus as the son of three powerful and influential figures, setting the stage for his incredible role in salvation. --- Do you want to explore any aspect of this verse in more detail? For example, would you like me to: Explain the symbolism behind the names Melchi, Addi, Cosam, and Er? Talk about why this genealogy is important in Christian theology?