What does Luke 3:20 mean?

Added yet this above all, that he shut up John in prison. Luke 3:20

Explanation

The verse in question, taken from the King James Version of the Bible, reads as follows: “Added yet this above all, that he shut up John in prison.” This verse is a part of the narrative found in the third chapter of the Gospel of Luke. It refers to the actions of Herod Antipas, the ruler of Galilee and Perea, who arrested John the Baptist and imprisoned him. This event is described as something happening ‘above all,’ which might be implying the severity or the culmination of Herod’s actions against John.

John the Baptist had been a vocal critic of Herod’s marriage to Herodias, his brother’s wife, which John condemned as unlawful. The phrase ‘above all’ signifies that, in addition to Herod’s other misdeeds, his decision to imprison John was particularly egregious. The imprisonment of John is a crucial point in the gospel narrative because it symbolizes the clash between prophetic truth-telling and political power.

Historical Context

The historical context of Luke 3:20 is the socio-political environment of 1st-century Judaea under Roman rule. Herod Antipas was the tetrarch of Galilee and Perea from 4 BCE until roughly 39 CE. He was part of the Herodian dynasty, known for their complex relationship with both the Roman Empire and the Jewish populace they ruled.

John the Baptist was a Jewish preacher and a contemporary of Jesus who called for repentance and baptized followers in preparation for the coming of the Kingdom of God. His public denunciation of Herod Antipas’ marriage to Herodias (who had been his brother’s wife) led to his arrest and subsequent imprisonment. This historic event is corroborated by Jewish historian Flavius Josephus, although his account does not connect John’s arrest directly with his criticism of Herod’s marriage.

Theological Insights

From a Christian theological perspective, the imprisonment of John the Baptist is significant. John represents the last of the Old Testament prophets and the one who heralds the arrival of the Messiah, Jesus Christ. His imprisonment highlights the transition from the old covenant to the new covenant that Jesus would establish through His ministry, death, and resurrection.

For Christian theologians, this verse emphasizes the reality of the opposition that God’s messengers often face. It also foreshadows the persecution that Jesus Himself would face as a challenge to political and religious authorities.

Different Christian denominations may interpret this event in various ways, though most agree on its significance within the gospel narrative and in foreshadowing the kind of resistance believers may face when standing for truth.

Practical Applications

From this verse, individuals can derive the lesson that standing up for moral principles and truth may lead to adversity or conflict with authorities. In practical terms, the verse inspires believers to remain steadfast in their convictions even when facing persecution or imprisonment.

It also serves as a reminder for Christians to pray for and support those who are being persecuted for their faith or for speaking truth to power, whether in their own communities or around the world.

Cross-References

• Matthew 14:3-4: “For Herod had laid hold on John, and bound him, and put him in prison for Herodias’ sake, his brother Philip’s wife. For John said unto him, It is not lawful for thee to have her.”
• Mark 6:17-18: “For Herod himself had sent forth and laid hold upon John, and bound him in prison for Herodias’ sake, his brother Philip’s wife: for he had married her. For John had said unto Herod, It is not lawful for thee to have thy brother’s wife.”
• Matthew 11:2: “Now when John had heard in the prison the works of Christ, he sent two of his disciples,”

Language Study

The Greek word for ‘shut up’ in this verse is “συνέκλεισεν” (synekleisen), which literally means “enclosed” or “imprisoned.” The word conveys more than just physical confinement; it implies a complete restriction of freedom. This term is used metaphorically as well in Scripture to describe the binding or confining effect of sin or the law.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

In comparing this event to other ancient myths and religious interpretations, one might consider the common theme of prophets or divine messengers facing punishment from earthly rulers. Figures like Socrates in ancient Greek tradition or various prophets in the Hebrew Scriptures often faced persecution for their teachings or criticisms of prevailing norms or leadership.

Scientific Perspectives

There is no direct scientific discourse related to this verse, but scientific investigation does play a role in archeology which informs us about the historical settings of biblical events. Archaeological findings, such as the remnants of Herodian architecture or writings from the period, help corroborate the existence of key figures mentioned in the Bible, such as Herod Antipas.

commentaries

Biblical scholars and commentators have examined Luke 3:20 in the context of its narrative and theological implications. According to the Pulpit Commentary, this act of imprisoning John shows the climax of Herod’s misdeeds and affirms the historical reliability of the Gospel accounts. John Calvin, in his commentary, noted the maliciousness of Herod in silencing the public rebuke of his sins. The Expositor’s Greek Testament discusses the political overtones of John’s imprisonment and the cultural expectations surrounding kingdom and power that John’s prophetic ministry defied. These commentaries often highlight the courageousness of John in speaking truth to power, the moral failure of Herod, and the coming conflict between Jesus and the political forces of his time.