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<!DOCTYPE html PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD XHTML 1.0 Transitional//EN" "//www.w3.org/TR/xhtml1/DTD/xhtml1-transitional.dtd"><html xmlns="//www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><head><meta http-equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html; charset=utf-8" /><meta name="viewport" content="width=device-width, initial-scale=1" /><title>Matthew 3:3 This is he who was spoken of through the prophet Isaiah: "A voice of one calling in the wilderness, 'Prepare the way for the Lord, make straight paths for Him.'"</title><link rel="canonical" href="https://biblehub.com/matthew/3-3.htm" /><link rel="stylesheet" href="/new9.css" type="text/css" media="Screen" /><meta property="og:image" content="https://biblehub.com/visuals/13/40_Mat_03_03.jpg" /><meta property="og:title" content="Matthew 3:3 - The Mission of John the Baptist" /><meta property="og:site_name" content="Bible Hub" /><meta property="og:description" content="This is he who was spoken of through the prophet Isaiah: A voice of one calling in the wilderness, 'Prepare the way for the Lord, make straight paths for Him.'" /><script type="application/javascript" src="https://scripts.webcontentassessor.com/scripts/8a2459b64f9cac8122fc7f2eac4409c8555fac9383016db59c4c26e3d5b8b157"></script><script src='https://qd.admetricspro.com/js/biblehub/biblehub-layout-loader-revcatch.js'></script><script id='HyDgbd_1s' src='https://prebidads.revcatch.com/ads.js' type='text/javascript' async></script><script>(function(w,d,b,s,i){var cts=d.createElement(s);cts.async=true;cts.id='catchscript'; cts.dataset.appid=i;cts.src='https://app.protectsubrev.com/catch_rp.js?cb='+Math.random(); document.head.appendChild(cts); }) (window,document,'head','script','rc-anksrH');</script></head><body><div id="fx"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" id="fx2"><tr><td><iframe width="100%" height="30" scrolling="no" src="/vmenus/matthew/3-3.htm" align="left" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div><div id="blnk"></div><div align="center"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" class="maintable"><tr><td><div id="fx5"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" id="fx6"><tr><td><iframe width="100%" height="245" scrolling="no" src="/bmc/matthew/3-3.htm" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></td></tr></table></div><div align="center"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" class="maintable3"><tr><td><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center" id="announce"><tr><td><div id="l1"><div id="breadcrumbs"><a href="/">Bible</a> > <a href="/matthew/">Matthew</a> > <a href="/matthew/3.htm">Chapter 3</a> > Verse 3</div><div id="anc"><iframe src="/anc.htm" width="100%" height="27" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></div><div id="anc2"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><iframe src="/anc2.htm" width="100%" height="27" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></div><div id="ad1"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><iframe src="/ad3.htm" width="100%" height="48" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></td></tr></table><div id="movebox2"><table border="0" align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0"><tr><td><div id="topheading"><a href="/matthew/3-2.htm" title="Matthew 3:2">◄</a> Matthew 3:3 <a href="/matthew/3-4.htm" title="Matthew 3:4">►</a></div></tr></table></div><div align="center" class="maintable2"><table border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><div id="topverse"> <a href="#audio" class="clickchap2" title="Context and Audio Bible"> Audio </a> <a href="#crossref" class="clickchap2" title="Cross References"> Cross </a> <a href="#study" class="clickchap2" title="Study Bible"> Study </a> <a href="#commentary" class="clickchap2" title="Commentary"> Comm </a> <a href="#lexicon" class="clickchap2" title="Lexicon"> Greek </a> </div><div id="leftbox"><div class="padleft"><div class="vheadingv">Verse<a href="/bsb/matthew/3.htm" class="clickchap" style="color:#001320" title="Click any translation name for full chapter">  (Click for Chapter)</a></div><div id="par"><a href="/niv/matthew/3.htm">New International Version</a> This is he who was spoken of through the prophet Isaiah: &#8220A voice of one calling in the wilderness, &#8216Prepare the way for the Lord, make straight paths for him.&#8217&#8221 <a href="/nlt/matthew/3.htm">New Living Translation</a> The prophet Isaiah was speaking about John when he said, “He is a voice shouting in the wilderness, ‘Prepare the way for the LORD’s coming! Clear the road for him!’” <a href="/esv/matthew/3.htm">English Standard Version</a> For this is he who was spoken of by the prophet Isaiah when he said, “The voice of one crying in the wilderness: ‘Prepare the way of the Lord; make his paths straight.’” <a href="/bsb/matthew/3.htm">Berean Standard Bible</a> This is he who was spoken of through the prophet Isaiah: “A voice of one calling in the wilderness, ‘Prepare the way for the Lord, make straight paths for Him.’” <a href="/blb/matthew/3.htm">Berean Literal Bible</a> For this is the one having been spoken of through the prophet Isaiah, saying, "A voice of one crying in the wilderness: 'Prepare the way of the Lord; make straight His paths.'" <a href="/kjv/matthew/3.htm">King James Bible</a> For this is he that was spoken of by the prophet Esaias, saying, The voice of one crying in the wilderness, Prepare ye the way of the Lord, make his paths straight. <a href="/nkjv/matthew/3.htm">New King James Version</a> For this is he who was spoken of by the prophet Isaiah, saying: “The voice of one crying in the wilderness: ‘Prepare the way of the LORD; Make His paths straight.’ ” <a href="/nasb_/matthew/3.htm">New American Standard Bible</a> For this is the one referred to by Isaiah the prophet when he said, “THE VOICE OF ONE CALLING OUT IN THE WILDERNESS, ‘PREPARE THE WAY OF THE LORD, MAKE HIS PATHS STRAIGHT!’” <a href="/nasb/matthew/3.htm">NASB 1995</a> For this is the one referred to by Isaiah the prophet when he said, &#8220THE VOICE OF ONE CRYING IN THE WILDERNESS, &#8216MAKE READY THE WAY OF THE LORD, MAKE HIS PATHS STRAIGHT!&#8217&#8221 <a href="/nasb77/matthew/3.htm">NASB 1977 </a> For this is the one referred to by Isaiah the prophet, saying, “THE VOICE OF ONE CRYING IN THE WILDERNESS, ‘MAKE READY THE WAY OF THE LORD, MAKE HIS PATHS STRAIGHT!’” <a href="/lsb/matthew/3.htm">Legacy Standard Bible </a> For this is the one referred to by Isaiah the prophet, saying, “THE VOICE OF ONE CRYING IN THE WILDERNESS, ‘MAKE READY THE WAY OF THE LORD, MAKE HIS PATHS STRAIGHT!’” <a href="/amp/matthew/3.htm">Amplified Bible</a> This is the one who was mentioned by the prophet Isaiah when he said, “THE VOICE OF ONE SHOUTING IN THE WILDERNESS, ‘PREPARE THE ROAD FOR THE LORD, MAKE HIS HIGHWAYS STRAIGHT (level, direct)!’” <a href="/csb/matthew/3.htm">Christian Standard Bible</a> For he is the one spoken of through the prophet Isaiah, who said: A voice of one crying out in the wilderness: Prepare the way for the Lord; make his paths straight! <a href="/hcsb/matthew/3.htm">Holman Christian Standard Bible</a> For he is the one spoken of through the prophet Isaiah, who said: A voice of one crying out in the wilderness: Prepare the way for the Lord; make His paths straight! <a href="/asv/matthew/3.htm">American Standard Version</a> For this is he that was spoken of through Isaiah the prophet, saying, The voice of one crying in the wilderness, Make ye ready the way of the Lord, Make his paths straight. <a href="/cev/matthew/3.htm">Contemporary English Version</a> John was the one the prophet Isaiah was talking about, when he said, "In the desert someone is shouting, 'Get the road ready for the Lord! Make a straight path for him.'" <a href="/erv/matthew/3.htm">English Revised Version</a> For this is he that was spoken of by Isaiah the prophet, saying, The voice of one crying in the wilderness, Make ye ready the way of the Lord, Make his paths straight. <a href="/gwt/matthew/3.htm">GOD'S WORD® Translation</a> Isaiah the prophet spoke about this man when he said, "A voice cries out in the desert: 'Prepare the way for the Lord! Make his paths straight!'" <a href="/gnt/matthew/3.htm">Good News Translation</a> John was the man the prophet Isaiah was talking about when he said, "Someone is shouting in the desert, 'Prepare a road for the Lord; make a straight path for him to travel!'" <a href="/isv/matthew/3.htm">International Standard Version</a> He was the one the prophet Isaiah was referring to when he said, "He is a voice calling out in the wilderness: 'Prepare the way for the Lord! Make his paths straight!'" <a href="/msb/matthew/3.htm">Majority Standard Bible</a> This is he who was spoken of through the prophet Isaiah: ?A voice of one calling in the wilderness, ?Prepare the way for the Lord, make straight paths for Him.?? <a href="/net/matthew/3.htm">NET Bible</a> For he is the one about whom Isaiah the prophet had spoken: "The voice of one shouting in the wilderness, 'Prepare the way for the Lord, make his paths straight.'" <a href="/nheb/matthew/3.htm">New Heart English Bible</a> For this is he who was spoken of by Isaiah the prophet, saying, "The voice of one who calls out in the wilderness, 'Prepare the way of the Lord. Make his roads straight.'" <a href="/wbt/matthew/3.htm">Webster's Bible Translation</a> For this is he that was spoken of by the prophet Isaiah, saying, The voice of one crying in the wilderness, Prepare ye the way of the Lord, make his paths straight. <a href="/wey/matthew/3.htm">Weymouth New Testament</a> He it is who was spoken of through the Prophet Isaiah when he said, "The voice of one crying aloud, 'In the desert prepare ye a road for the Lord: make His highway straight.'" <a href="/web/matthew/3.htm">World English Bible</a> For this is he who was spoken of by Isaiah the prophet, saying, “The voice of one crying in the wilderness, make the way of the Lord ready! Make his paths straight!” <div class="vheading2">Literal Translations</div><a href="/lsv/matthew/3.htm">Literal Standard Version</a> for this is he having been spoken of by Isaiah the prophet, saying, “A voice of one crying in the wilderness: Prepare the way of the LORD, "" Make His paths straight.” <a href="/blb/matthew/3.htm">Berean Literal Bible</a> For this is the one having been spoken of through the prophet Isaiah, saying, "A voice of one crying in the wilderness: 'Prepare the way of the Lord; make straight His paths.'" <a href="/ylt/matthew/3.htm">Young's Literal Translation</a> for this is he who was spoken of by Isaiah the prophet, saying, 'A voice of one crying in the wilderness, Prepare ye the way of the Lord, straight make ye His paths.' <a href="/slt/matthew/3.htm">Smith's Literal Translation</a> For this is he spoken of by the prophet Esaias, saying, A voice of him crying in the desert, Prepare the way of the Lord; make his paths straight.<div class="vheading2">Catholic Translations</div><a href="/drb/matthew/3.htm">Douay-Rheims Bible</a> For this is he that was spoken of by Isaias the prophet, saying: A voice of one crying in the desert, Prepare ye the way of the Lord, make straight his paths. <a href="/cpdv/matthew/3.htm">Catholic Public Domain Version</a> For this is the one who was spoken of through the prophet Isaiah, saying: “A voice crying out in the desert: Prepare the way of the Lord. Make straight his paths.” <a href="/nabre/matthew/3.htm">New American Bible</a> It was of him that the prophet Isaiah had spoken when he said: “A voice of one crying out in the desert, ‘Prepare the way of the Lord, make straight his paths.’ ” <a href="/nrsvce/matthew/3.htm">New Revised Standard Version</a> This is the one of whom the prophet Isaiah spoke when he said, “The voice of one crying out in the wilderness: ‘Prepare the way of the Lord, make his paths straight.’”<div class="vheading2">Translations from Aramaic</div><a href="/lamsa/matthew/3.htm">Lamsa Bible</a> For it was he of whom it was said by the prophet Isaiah, The voice which cries in the wilderness, Prepare the way of the Lord, and straighten his highways. <a href="/aramaic-plain-english/matthew/3.htm">Aramaic Bible in Plain English</a> For this was he of whom it was said by Isaiah the Prophet, “A voice that cries in the desert, 'Prepare the way of THE LORD JEHOVAH and level his paths'.”<div class="vheading2">NT Translations</div><a href="/anderson/matthew/3.htm">Anderson New Testament</a> For this is he that was spoken of by Isaiah the prophet, saying: The voice of one crying in the wilderness, Prepare the way of the Lord, make his paths straight. <a href="/godbey/matthew/3.htm">Godbey New Testament</a> This is the one, who is spoken of by Isaiah the prophet saying, The voice of one roaring in the wilderness; Prepare ye the way of the Lord; make straight His paths. <a href="/haweis/matthew/3.htm">Haweis New Testament</a> For this is the person spoken of by Isaiah the prophet, saying,<RX 23.40.3> ?The voice of one crying aloud in the wilderness, Prepare the way of the Lord, make his paths strait.? <a href="/mace/matthew/3.htm">Mace New Testament</a> for it is of John the prophet Esaias spoke, when he said, "The voice of one crying in the wilderness, Prepare ye the way of the Lord, make his paths clear." <a href="/wey/matthew/3.htm">Weymouth New Testament</a> He it is who was spoken of through the Prophet Isaiah when he said, "The voice of one crying aloud, 'In the desert prepare ye a road for the Lord: make His highway straight.'" <a href="/worrell/matthew/3.htm">Worrell New Testament</a> for this is he that was spoken of by Isaiah, the prophet, saying, 'A voice of one crying in the wilderness, Prepare ye the way of the Lord, make His paths straight.'" <a href="/worsley/matthew/3.htm">Worsley New Testament</a> for this is He who was spoken of by Esaias the prophet, saying, The voice of one crying in the desert, "Prepare ye the way of the Lord, make his paths straight." <a href="/parallel/matthew/3-3.htm">Additional Translations ...</a></div></div></div><div id="centbox"><div class="padcent"><a name="audio" id="audio"></a><div class="vheadingv">Audio Bible</div><iframe width="100%" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/hriiyJYqzvc?start=465" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe> <div class="vheadingv">Context</div><a href="/bsb/matthew/3.htm">The Mission of John the Baptist</a> …2and saying, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is near.” 3<a href="/greek/1063.htm" title="1063: gar (Conj) -- For. A primary particle; properly, assigning a reason."></a> <a href="/greek/3778.htm" title="3778: houtos (DPro-NMS) -- This; he, she, it. ">This</a> <a href="/greek/1510.htm" title="1510: estin (V-PIA-3S) -- I am, exist. The first person singular present indicative; a prolonged form of a primary and defective verb; I exist.">is</a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: ho (Art-NMS) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the.">he who</a> <a href="/greek/2046.htm" title="2046: rhētheis (V-APP-NMS) -- Probably a fuller form of rheo; an alternate for epo in certain tenses; to utter, i.e. Speak or say.">was spoken of</a> <a href="/greek/1223.htm" title="1223: dia (Prep) -- A primary preposition denoting the channel of an act; through.">through</a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: tou (Art-GMS) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the.">the</a> <a href="/greek/4396.htm" title="4396: prophētou (N-GMS) -- From a compound of pro and phemi; a foreteller; by analogy, an inspired speaker; by extension, a poet.">prophet</a> <a href="/greek/2268.htm" title="2268: Ēsaiou (N-GMS) -- Isaiah, the prophet. Of Hebrew origin; Hesaias, an Israelite.">Isaiah:</a> <a href="/greek/3004.htm" title="3004: legontos (V-PPA-GMS) -- (a) I say, speak; I mean, mention, tell, (b) I call, name, especially in the pass., (c) I tell, command. "></a> <a href="/greek/5456.htm" title="5456: Phōnē (N-NFS) -- Probably akin to phaino through the idea of disclosure; a tone; by implication, an address, saying or language.">“A voice</a> <a href="/greek/994.htm" title="994: boōntos (V-PPA-GMS) -- To shout, call aloud, proclaim. Apparently a prolonged form of a primary verb; to halloo, i.e. Shout.">of one calling</a> <a href="/greek/1722.htm" title="1722: en (Prep) -- In, on, among. A primary preposition denoting position, and instrumentality, i.e. A relation of rest; in, at, on, by, etc.">in</a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: tē (Art-DFS) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the.">the</a> <a href="/greek/2048.htm" title="2048: erēmō (Adj-DFS) -- Lonesome, i.e. waste.">wilderness,</a> <a href="/greek/2090.htm" title="2090: Hetoimasate (V-AMA-2P) -- To make ready, prepare. From hetoimos; to prepare.">‘Prepare</a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: tēn (Art-AFS) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the.">the</a> <a href="/greek/3598.htm" title="3598: hodon (N-AFS) -- A way, road, journey, path. Apparently a primary word; a road; by implication, a progress; figuratively, a mode or means.">way</a> <a href="/greek/2962.htm" title="2962: Kyriou (N-GMS) -- Lord, master, sir; the Lord. From kuros; supreme in authority, i.e. controller; by implication, Master.">for the Lord,</a> <a href="/greek/4160.htm" title="4160: poieite (V-PMA-2P) -- (a) I make, manufacture, construct, (b) I do, act, cause. Apparently a prolonged form of an obsolete primary; to make or do.">make</a> <a href="/greek/2117.htm" title="2117: eutheias (Adj-AFP) -- Perhaps from eu and tithemi; straight, i.e. level, or true; adverbially at once.">straight</a> <a href="/greek/5147.htm" title="5147: tribous (N-AFP) -- A worn path, beaten way, road, highway. From tribo; a rut or worn track.">paths</a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: tas (Art-AFP) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the."></a> <a href="/greek/846.htm" title="846: autou (PPro-GM3S) -- He, she, it, they, them, same. From the particle au; the reflexive pronoun self, used of the third person, and of the other persons.">for Him.’”</a> 4John wore a garment of camel’s hair, with a leather belt around his waist. His food was locusts and wild honey.…<div class="cred"><a href="//berean.bible">Berean Standard Bible</a> · <a href="//berean.bible/downloads.htm">Download</a></div> <a name="crossref" id="crossref"></a><div class="vheading">Cross References</div><div id="crf"><a href="/isaiah/40-3.htm">Isaiah 40:3</a> A voice of one calling: “Prepare the way for the LORD in the wilderness; make a straight highway for our God in the desert. <a href="/mark/1-3.htm">Mark 1:3</a> “A voice of one calling in the wilderness, ‘Prepare the way for the Lord, make straight paths for Him.’” <a href="/luke/3-4.htm">Luke 3:4</a> as it is written in the book of the words of Isaiah the prophet: “A voice of one calling in the wilderness, ‘Prepare the way for the Lord, make straight paths for Him. <a href="/john/1-23.htm">John 1:23</a> John replied in the words of Isaiah the prophet: “I am a voice of one calling in the wilderness, ‘Make straight the way for the Lord.’” <a href="/malachi/3-1.htm">Malachi 3:1</a> “Behold, I will send My messenger, who will prepare the way before Me. Then the Lord whom you seek will suddenly come to His temple—the Messenger of the covenant, in whom you delight—see, He is coming,” says the LORD of Hosts. <a href="/isaiah/57-14.htm">Isaiah 57:14</a> And it will be said, “Build it up, build it up, prepare the way, take every obstacle out of the way of My people.” <a href="/isaiah/62-10.htm">Isaiah 62:10</a> Go out, go out through the gates; prepare the way for the people! Build it up, build up the highway; clear away the stones; raise a banner for the nations! <a href="/john/1-19.htm">John 1:19-23</a> And this was John’s testimony when the Jews of Jerusalem sent priests and Levites to ask him, “Who are you?” / He did not refuse to confess, but openly declared, “I am not the Christ.” / “Then who are you?” they inquired. “Are you Elijah?” He said, “I am not.” “Are you the Prophet?” He answered, “No.” ... <a href="/luke/1-76.htm">Luke 1:76</a> And you, child, will be called a prophet of the Most High; for you will go on before the Lord to prepare the way for Him, <a href="/mark/1-2.htm">Mark 1:2-4</a> As it is written in Isaiah the prophet: “Behold, I will send My messenger ahead of You, who will prepare Your way.” / “A voice of one calling in the wilderness, ‘Prepare the way for the Lord, make straight paths for Him.’” / John the Baptist appeared in the wilderness, preaching a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins. <a href="/luke/3-3.htm">Luke 3:3-6</a> He went into all the region around the Jordan, preaching a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins, / as it is written in the book of the words of Isaiah the prophet: “A voice of one calling in the wilderness, ‘Prepare the way for the Lord, make straight paths for Him. / Every valley shall be filled in, and every mountain and hill made low. The crooked ways shall be made straight, and the rough ways smooth. ... <a href="/john/3-28.htm">John 3:28</a> You yourselves can testify that I said, ‘I am not the Christ, but am sent ahead of Him.’ <a href="/isaiah/35-8.htm">Isaiah 35:8</a> And there will be a highway called the Way of Holiness. The unclean will not travel it—only those who walk in the Way—and fools will not stray onto it. <a href="/isaiah/52-10.htm">Isaiah 52:10</a> The LORD has bared His holy arm in the sight of all the nations; all the ends of the earth will see the salvation of our God. <a href="/acts/19-4.htm">Acts 19:4</a> Paul explained: “John’s baptism was a baptism of repentance. He told the people to believe in the One coming after him, that is, in Jesus.”</div> <a name="tsk" id="tsk"><div class="vheading">Treasury of Scripture</div>For this is he that was spoken of by the prophet Esaias, saying, The voice of one crying in the wilderness, Prepare you the way of the Lord, make his paths straight.by.<a href="/isaiah/40-3.htm">Isaiah 40:3</a> The voice of him that crieth in the wilderness, Prepare ye the way of the LORD, make straight in the desert a highway for our God.<a href="/mark/1-3.htm">Mark 1:3</a> The voice of one crying in the wilderness, Prepare ye the way of the Lord, make his paths straight.<a href="/luke/3-3.htm">Luke 3:3-6</a> And he came into all the country about Jordan, preaching the baptism of repentance for the remission of sins; … Prepare.<a href="/isaiah/57-14.htm">Isaiah 57:14,15</a> And shall say, Cast ye up, cast ye up, prepare the way, take up the stumblingblock out of the way of my people… <a href="/malachi/3-1.htm">Malachi 3:1</a> Behold, I will send my messenger, and he shall prepare the way before me: and the Lord, whom ye seek, shall suddenly come to his temple, even the messenger of the covenant, whom ye delight in: behold, he shall come, saith the LORD of hosts.<a href="/luke/1-17.htm">Luke 1:17,76</a> And he shall go before him in the spirit and power of Elias, to turn the hearts of the fathers to the children, and the disobedient to the wisdom of the just; to make ready a people prepared for the Lord… <div class="vheading">Jump to Previous</div><a href="/zephaniah/3-14.htm">Aloud</a> <a href="/malachi/2-13.htm">Crying</a> <a href="/matthew/3-1.htm">Desert</a> <a href="/romans/15-12.htm">Esaias</a> <a href="/joel/2-8.htm">Highway</a> <a href="/isaiah/39-8.htm">Isaiah</a> <a href="/micah/4-2.htm">Paths</a> <a href="/malachi/4-3.htm">Prepare</a> <a href="/matthew/2-17.htm">Prophet</a> <a href="/zechariah/5-11.htm">Ready</a> <a href="/hebrews/2-14.htm">Referred</a> <a href="/nahum/2-1.htm">Road</a> <a href="/ezekiel/21-21.htm">Roads</a> <a href="/micah/3-9.htm">Straight</a> <a href="/matthew/2-18.htm">Voice</a> <a href="/matthew/3-1.htm">Waste</a> <a href="/matthew/2-22.htm">Way</a> <a href="/matthew/3-1.htm">Wilderness</a><div class="vheading2">Jump to Next</div><a href="/matthew/8-12.htm">Aloud</a> <a href="/matthew/8-25.htm">Crying</a> <a href="/matthew/4-1.htm">Desert</a> <a href="/matthew/4-14.htm">Esaias</a> <a href="/mark/10-46.htm">Highway</a> <a href="/matthew/4-14.htm">Isaiah</a> <a href="/mark/1-3.htm">Paths</a> <a href="/matthew/11-10.htm">Prepare</a> <a href="/matthew/4-14.htm">Prophet</a> <a href="/matthew/11-10.htm">Ready</a> <a href="/mark/12-12.htm">Referred</a> <a href="/matthew/4-15.htm">Road</a> <a href="/matthew/22-10.htm">Roads</a> <a href="/matthew/3-16.htm">Straight</a> <a href="/matthew/3-17.htm">Voice</a> <a href="/matthew/3-12.htm">Waste</a> <a href="/matthew/3-15.htm">Way</a> <a href="/matthew/4-1.htm">Wilderness</a><div class="vheading2">Matthew 3</div>1. <a href="/matthew/3-1.htm">John preaches: his office, life, and baptism.</a> 7. <a href="/matthew/3-7.htm">He reprimands the Pharisees,</a> 13. <a href="/matthew/3-13.htm">and baptizes Jesus in Jordan.</a> </div></div><div id="mdd"><div align="center"><div class="bot2"><table align="center" width="100%"><tr><td><div align="center"> <script id="3d27ed63fc4348d5b062c4527ae09445"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=51ce25d5-1a8c-424a-8695-4bd48c750f35&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script> <script id="b817b7107f1d4a7997da1b3c33457e03"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=cb0edd8b-b416-47eb-8c6d-3cc96561f7e8&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-2'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-0' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-3'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-1' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div>  <div align="center" id='div-gpt-ad-1531425649696-0'> </div> <ins class="adsbygoogle" style="display:inline-block;width:200px;height:200px" data-ad-client="ca-pub-3753401421161123" data-ad-slot="3592799687"></ins> <script> (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); </script> </div> </td></tr></table></div></div></div><div id="combox"><div class="padcom"><a name="study" id="study"></a><div class="vheading"><table width="100%"><tr><td width="99%" valign="top"><a href="/study/matthew/3.htm">Study Bible</a></td><td width="1%" valign="top"><a href="/study/matthew/" title="Book Summary and Study">Book ◦</a> <a href="/study/chapters/matthew/3.htm" title="Chapter summary and Study">Chapter </a></tr></table></div>This is he who was spoken of through the prophet Isaiah: This phrase identifies John the Baptist as the fulfillment of Isaiah's prophecy, specifically <a href="/isaiah/40-3.htm">Isaiah 40:3</a>. This connection emphasizes the continuity between the Old and New Testaments, showing that John’s role was divinely ordained. Isaiah's prophecy was given during a time of impending exile for Israel, promising future restoration. John’s ministry heralds the coming of Jesus, the ultimate fulfillment of God’s promise to redeem His people.A voice of one calling in the wilderness: The wilderness symbolizes a place of preparation and purification in biblical tradition. It is where Israel wandered for 40 years and where Jesus would later be tempted. John’s ministry in the wilderness signifies a call to repentance and spiritual renewal. The wilderness setting also underscores the idea of separation from worldly distractions, focusing on spiritual readiness for the Messiah.Prepare the way for the Lord: This phrase echoes the ancient practice of preparing roads for the arrival of a king, ensuring a smooth and unhindered path. Spiritually, it calls for repentance and moral realignment to receive the Lord. The Lord here refers to Jesus, affirming His divine authority and kingship. This preparation involves turning away from sin and embracing righteousness, aligning with the message of repentance that John preached.Make straight paths for Him: The imagery of straight paths suggests removing obstacles and making a direct route for the Lord’s coming. It implies a call to ethical and spiritual integrity, removing anything that hinders a relationship with God. This phrase also connects to the broader biblical theme of God making a way for His people, as seen in the Exodus and the return from Babylonian exile. It highlights the need for personal and communal readiness for the transformative work of Christ.<div class="vheading2">Persons / Places / Events</div>1. <a href="/topical/j/john_the_baptist.htm">John the Baptist</a> The central figure in this verse, John is the "voice" in the wilderness, fulfilling the prophecy of Isaiah. He is a forerunner to Jesus, calling people to repentance and preparing them for the coming Messiah. 2. <a href="/topical/i/isaiah_the_prophet.htm">Isaiah the Prophet</a> An Old Testament prophet whose words are quoted in this verse. Isaiah's prophecy (<a href="/isaiah/40-3.htm">Isaiah 40:3</a>) is seen as a foretelling of John the Baptist's ministry. 3. <a href="/topical/t/the_wilderness.htm">The Wilderness</a> A significant location in biblical accounts, often symbolizing a place of testing, preparation, and revelation. It is where John the Baptist preached and baptized. 4. <a href="/topical/t/the_lord.htm">The Lord</a> Refers to Jesus Christ, whose coming John the Baptist is preparing the way for. The preparation involves spiritual readiness and repentance. 5. <a href="/topical/t/the_people_of_israel.htm">The People of Israel</a> The primary audience of John the Baptist's message, called to repentance and readiness for the coming of the Messiah.<div class="vheading2">Teaching Points</div><a href="/topical/t/the_role_of_prophecy.htm">The Role of Prophecy</a> Prophecy serves as a bridge between the Old and New Testaments, affirming the divine plan and continuity of God's message. <a href="/topical/t/the_importance_of_preparation.htm">The Importance of Preparation</a> Just as John prepared the way for Jesus, believers are called to prepare their hearts and lives for Christ's presence and work. <a href="/topical/r/repentance_as_a_pathway.htm">Repentance as a Pathway</a> John's call to repentance is foundational for receiving Christ. True repentance involves a change of heart and direction, aligning with God's will. <a href="/topical/t/the_wilderness_experience.htm">The Wilderness Experience</a> The wilderness symbolizes a place of spiritual growth and preparation. Believers may find themselves in "wilderness" seasons that refine and ready them for God's purposes. <a href="/topical/t/the_call_to_be_a_voice.htm">The Call to Be a Voice</a> Like John, Christians are called to be voices in their own "wilderness," proclaiming the truth of Christ and preparing others to receive Him.<div class="vheading2">Lists and Questions</div><a href="/top10/lessons_from_matthew_3.htm">Top 10 Lessons from Matthew 3</a> <a href="/q/why_is_christian_communion_important.htm">What does 'voice in the wilderness' signify?</a> <a href="/q/did_john_doubt_jesus'_identity.htm">Did John the Baptist doubt Jesus' identity?</a> <a href="/q/does_luke_7_29-30_undermine_john's_role.htm">Luke 7:29–30 – Does the mention of people rejecting John’s baptism but being open to Jesus contradict or undermine John’s prophetic role elsewhere in Scripture? </a> <a href="/q/who_is_john_owen.htm">What does 'bruised reed' and 'smoking flax' signify?</a><a name="commentary" id="commentary"></a><div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/ellicott/matthew/3.htm">Ellicott's Commentary for English Readers</a></div>(3) This is he.--The words are those of the Evangelist, not of the Baptist, though the latter also used them to describe his own office (<a href="/john/1-23.htm" title="He said, I am the voice of one crying in the wilderness, Make straight the way of the Lord, as said the prophet Esaias.">John 1:23</a>). In each case the reference shows how strongly the great second part of Isaiah had impressed itself on the minds of men. To the Baptist, brooding over the sins of his people, and the long-expected consolation of Israel, there had come "the word of the Lord" (<a href="/luke/3-2.htm" title="Annas and Caiaphas being the high priests, the word of God came to John the son of Zacharias in the wilderness.">Luke 3:2</a>), bidding him identify himself with that "voice of one crying in the wilderness."Historically, the connection of the opening chapters of this part of Isaiah with the protests against idolatry (<a href="/context/isaiah/40-18.htm" title="To whom then will you liken God? or what likeness will you compare to him?">Isaiah 40:18-24</a>; <a href="/isaiah/41-7.htm" title="So the carpenter encouraged the goldsmith, and he that smoothes with the hammer him that smote the anvil, saying, It is ready for the soldering: and he fastened it with nails, that it should not be moved.">Isaiah 41:7</a>; <a href="/context/isaiah/44-9.htm" title="They that make a graven image are all of them vanity; and their delectable things shall not profit; and they are their own witnesses; they see not, nor know; that they may be ashamed.">Isaiah 44:9-20</a>), and with the name of Cyrus (<a href="/isaiah/44-28.htm" title="That said of Cyrus, He is my shepherd, and shall perform all my pleasure: even saying to Jerusalem, You shall be built; and to the temple, Your foundation shall be laid.">Isaiah 44:28</a>; <a href="/isaiah/45-1.htm" title="Thus said the LORD to his anointed, to Cyrus, whose right hand I have held, to subdue nations before him; and I will loose the loins of kings, to open before him the two leaved gates; and the gates shall not be shut;">Isaiah 45:1</a>), shows that the prophet blended his glorious visions of the ideal polity of the future with the return of the exiles from Babylon. The return came, and the ideal was not realised. The kingdom of heaven seemed still far off. Now, the Baptist came to proclaim its nearness. . . . <div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/pulpit/matthew/3.htm">Pulpit Commentary</a></div>Verse 3. - For. The reason for John's appearance and proclamation lies in prophecy. This is he that was spoken of (οῦτος γὰρ ἐστιν ὁ ῤηθείς). In <a href="/john/1-23.htm">John 1:23</a> the following quotation is uttered by the Baptist himself, and some commentators have supposed this to be the case also here. But (1) this is against the parallel passages in Mark and Luke. (2) The form of the expression in John arises directly from the context. (3) In the Baptist's mouth the neuter (τοῦτο... τὸ ῤηθέν) rather than the masculine would have been more natural. The expression is doubtless that of the evangelist, suggested to him by John's own utterance, the "is" (ἐστιν) expressing John's permanent character. Contrast εϊχεν η΅ν, (ver. 4) of his clothing and food. [He that was] spoken of. The expression means, not a mere reference found in Isaiah, but the absolute content of the prophet's words. The utterance of God by means of the prophet is - John the:Baptist. The Prophet Esaias; Isaiah the prophet (Revised Version); the commoner Greek order (but cf. <a href="/luke/4-17.htm">Luke 4:17</a>). The voice, etc. (except "his" for "our God," from the LXX. of <a href="/isaiah/40-8.htm">Isaiah 40:8</a>). The Hebrew probably joins "in the wilderness" with "prepare ye," but St. Matthew with "crying" (cf ver. 1, "preaching in the wilderness," as probably the LXX.) In Isaiah the original meaning of the passage was probably, "prepare for the return to Jerusalem." The figure is that of the common and necessary process in semi-civilized countries of repairing roads before a great personage comes along them. Zechariah had; years before, applied the similar expression in <a href="/malachi/3-1.htm">Malachi 3:1</a> to his son (<a href="/luke/1-76.htm">Luke 1:76</a>; cf. <a href="/mark/1-2.htm">Mark 1:2</a>). (For a metaphor like in kind, but with contrasted meaning, cf. <a href="/galatians/5-7.htm">Galatians 5:7</a>, ἐκόπτειν, breaking up a road to render it impassable.) Paths (τρίβους). According to Philo, the word is equivalent to "a carriage-road" (ἱππήλατος καὶ ἁμαξήλατος ὁδός, vide in Wetstein). It is thus equivalent to the Hebrew (m sillah, "a highway," "a made road"). Possibly the plural was employed by the LXX. rather than the singular of the original, from their interpreting the passage, not of the return of the Lord to Palestine, but his coming into many hearts. <a href="/commentaries/matthew/3-3.htm">Parallel Commentaries ...</a> <a name="lexicon" id="lexicon"></a><div class="vheading">Greek</div>This οὗτος (houtos) Demonstrative Pronoun - Nominative Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_3778.htm">Strong's 3778: </a> This; he, she, it. is ἐστιν (estin) Verb - Present Indicative Active - 3rd Person Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_1510.htm">Strong's 1510: </a> I am, exist. The first person singular present indicative; a prolonged form of a primary and defective verb; I exist. he who ὁ (ho) Article - Nominative Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_3588.htm">Strong's 3588: </a> The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the. was spoken of ῥηθεὶς (rhētheis) Verb - Aorist Participle Passive - Nominative Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_2046.htm">Strong's 2046: </a> Probably a fuller form of rheo; an alternate for epo in certain tenses; to utter, i.e. Speak or say. through διὰ (dia) Preposition <a href="/greek/strongs_1223.htm">Strong's 1223: </a> A primary preposition denoting the channel of an act; through. the τοῦ (tou) Article - Genitive Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_3588.htm">Strong's 3588: </a> The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the. prophet προφήτου (prophētou) Noun - Genitive Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_4396.htm">Strong's 4396: </a> From a compound of pro and phemi; a foreteller; by analogy, an inspired speaker; by extension, a poet. Isaiah: Ἠσαΐου (Ēsaiou) Noun - Genitive Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_2268.htm">Strong's 2268: </a> Isaiah, the prophet. Of Hebrew origin; Hesaias, an Israelite. “[A] voice Φωνὴ (Phōnē) Noun - Nominative Feminine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_5456.htm">Strong's 5456: </a> Probably akin to phaino through the idea of disclosure; a tone; by implication, an address, saying or language. of one calling βοῶντος (boōntos) Verb - Present Participle Active - Genitive Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_994.htm">Strong's 994: </a> To shout, call aloud, proclaim. Apparently a prolonged form of a primary verb; to halloo, i.e. Shout. in ἐν (en) Preposition <a href="/greek/strongs_1722.htm">Strong's 1722: </a> In, on, among. A primary preposition denoting position, and instrumentality, i.e. A relation of rest; 'in, ' at, on, by, etc. the τῇ (tē) Article - Dative Feminine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_3588.htm">Strong's 3588: </a> The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the. wilderness, ἐρήμῳ (erēmō) Adjective - Dative Feminine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_2048.htm">Strong's 2048: </a> Lonesome, i.e. waste. ‘Prepare Ἑτοιμάσατε (Hetoimasate) Verb - Aorist Imperative Active - 2nd Person Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_2090.htm">Strong's 2090: </a> To make ready, prepare. From hetoimos; to prepare. the τὴν (tēn) Article - Accusative Feminine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_3588.htm">Strong's 3588: </a> The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the. way ὁδὸν (hodon) Noun - Accusative Feminine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_3598.htm">Strong's 3598: </a> A way, road, journey, path. Apparently a primary word; a road; by implication, a progress; figuratively, a mode or means. for [the] Lord, Κυρίου (Kyriou) Noun - Genitive Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_2962.htm">Strong's 2962: </a> Lord, master, sir; the Lord. From kuros; supreme in authority, i.e. controller; by implication, Master. make ποιεῖτε (poieite) Verb - Present Imperative Active - 2nd Person Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_4160.htm">Strong's 4160: </a> (a) I make, manufacture, construct, (b) I do, act, cause. Apparently a prolonged form of an obsolete primary; to make or do. straight εὐθείας (eutheias) Adjective - Accusative Feminine Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_2117.htm">Strong's 2117: </a> Perhaps from eu and tithemi; straight, i.e. level, or true; adverbially at once. paths τρίβους (tribous) Noun - Accusative Feminine Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_5147.htm">Strong's 5147: </a> A worn path, beaten way, road, highway. From tribo; a rut or worn track. for Him.?? αὐτοῦ (autou) Personal / Possessive Pronoun - Genitive Masculine 3rd Person Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_846.htm">Strong's 846: </a> He, she, it, they, them, same. From the particle au; the reflexive pronoun self, used of the third person, and of the other persons. <div class="vheading">Links</div><a href="/niv/matthew/3-3.htm">Matthew 3:3 NIV</a> <a href="/nlt/matthew/3-3.htm">Matthew 3:3 NLT</a> <a href="/esv/matthew/3-3.htm">Matthew 3:3 ESV</a> <a href="/nasb/matthew/3-3.htm">Matthew 3:3 NASB</a> <a href="/kjv/matthew/3-3.htm">Matthew 3:3 KJV</a> <a href="//bibleapps.com/matthew/3-3.htm">Matthew 3:3 BibleApps.com</a> <a href="//bibliaparalela.com/matthew/3-3.htm">Matthew 3:3 Biblia Paralela</a> <a href="//holybible.com.cn/matthew/3-3.htm">Matthew 3:3 Chinese Bible</a> <a href="//saintebible.com/matthew/3-3.htm">Matthew 3:3 French Bible</a> <a href="/catholic/matthew/3-3.htm">Matthew 3:3 Catholic Bible</a> <a href="/matthew/3-3.htm">NT Gospels: Matthew 3:3 For this is he who was spoken (Matt. Mat Mt) </a></div></div></td></tr></table></div><div id="left"><a href="/matthew/3-2.htm" onmouseover='lft.src="/leftgif.png"' onmouseout='lft.src="/left.png"' title="Matthew 3:2"><img src="/left.png" name="lft" border="0" alt="Matthew 3:2" /></a></div><div id="right"><a href="/matthew/3-4.htm" onmouseover='rght.src="/rightgif.png"' onmouseout='rght.src="/right.png"' title="Matthew 3:4"><img src="/right.png" name="rght" border="0" alt="Matthew 3:4" /></a></div><div id="botleft"><a href="#" onmouseover='botleft.src="/botleftgif.png"' onmouseout='botleft.src="/botleft.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botleft.png" name="botleft" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="botright"><a href="#" onmouseover='botright.src="/botrightgif.png"' onmouseout='botright.src="/botright.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botright.png" name="botright" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="bot"><iframe width="100%" height="1500" scrolling="no" src="/botmenubhnew2.htm" frameborder="0"></iframe></div></td></tr></table></div></body></html>