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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>Luke 3:4 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.</title><link rel="canonical" href="https://biblehub.com/luke/3-4.htm" /><link rel="stylesheet" href="/new9.css" type="text/css" media="Screen" /><meta property="og:image" content="https://biblehub.com/visuals/11/42_Luk_03_04.jpg" /><meta property="og:title" content="Luke 3:4 - The Mission of John the Baptist" /><meta property="og:site_name" content="Bible Hub" /><meta property="og:description" content="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." /><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/luke/3-4.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/luke/3-4.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="/luke/">Luke</a> > <a href="/luke/3.htm">Chapter 3</a> > Verse 4</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="/ad4.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="/luke/3-3.htm" title="Luke 3:3">◄</a> Luke 3:4 <a href="/luke/3-5.htm" title="Luke 3:5">►</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/luke/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/luke/3.htm">New International Version</a> As it is written in the book of the words of Isaiah the prophet: &#8220A voice of one calling in the wilderness, &#8216Prepare the way for the Lord, make straight paths for him. <a href="/nlt/luke/3.htm">New Living Translation</a> Isaiah had spoken of 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/luke/3.htm">English Standard Version</a> As it is written in the book of the words of Isaiah the prophet, “The voice of one crying in the wilderness: ‘Prepare the way of the Lord, make his paths straight. <a href="/bsb/luke/3.htm">Berean Standard Bible</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="/blb/luke/3.htm">Berean Literal Bible</a> as it has been written in the book of the words of Isaiah the prophet: "The voice of one crying in the wilderness, 'Prepare the way of the Lord; make His paths straight.' <a href="/kjv/luke/3.htm">King James Bible</a> As it is written in the book of the words of Esaias the prophet, saying, The voice of one crying in the wilderness, Prepare ye the way of the Lord, make his paths straight. <a href="/nkjv/luke/3.htm">New King James Version</a> as it is written in the book of the words of Isaiah the prophet, saying: “The voice of one crying in the wilderness: ‘Prepare the way of the LORD; Make His paths straight. <a href="/nasb_/luke/3.htm">New American Standard Bible</a> as it is written in the book of the words of Isaiah the prophet: “THE VOICE OF ONE CALLING OUT IN THE WILDERNESS, ‘PREPARE THE WAY OF THE LORD, MAKE HIS PATHS STRAIGHT! <a href="/nasb/luke/3.htm">NASB 1995</a> as it is written in the book of the words of Isaiah the prophet, &#8220THE VOICE OF ONE CRYING IN THE WILDERNESS, &#8216MAKE READY THE WAY OF THE LORD, MAKE HIS PATHS STRAIGHT. <a href="/nasb77/luke/3.htm">NASB 1977 </a> as it is written in the book of the words of Isaiah the prophet, “THE VOICE OF ONE CRYING IN THE WILDERNESS, ‘MAKE READY THE WAY OF THE LORD, MAKE HIS PATHS STRAIGHT. <a href="/lsb/luke/3.htm">Legacy Standard Bible </a> as it is written in the book of the words of Isaiah the prophet, “THE VOICE OF ONE CRYING IN THE WILDERNESS, ‘MAKE READY THE WAY OF THE LORD, MAKE HIS PATHS STRAIGHT. <a href="/amp/luke/3.htm">Amplified Bible</a> as it is written and forever remains written in the book of the words of Isaiah the prophet, “THE VOICE OF ONE SHOUTING IN THE WILDERNESS, ‘PREPARE THE WAY OF THE LORD, MAKE HIS PATHS STRAIGHT. <a href="/csb/luke/3.htm">Christian Standard Bible</a> as it is written in the book of the words of the prophet Isaiah: A voice of one crying out in the wilderness: Prepare the way for the Lord; make his paths straight! <a href="/hcsb/luke/3.htm">Holman Christian Standard Bible</a> as it is written in the book of the words of the prophet Isaiah: A voice of one crying out in the wilderness: Prepare the way for the Lord; make His paths straight! <a href="/asv/luke/3.htm">American Standard Version</a> as it is written in the book of the words of Isaiah the prophet, The voice of one crying in the wilderness, Make ye ready the way of the Lord, Make his paths straight. <a href="/cev/luke/3.htm">Contemporary English Version</a> Isaiah the prophet wrote about John 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/luke/3.htm">English Revised Version</a> as it is written in the book of the words of Isaiah the prophet, The voice of one crying in the wilderness, Make ye ready the way of the Lord, Make his paths straight. <a href="/gwt/luke/3.htm">GOD'S WORD® Translation</a> As the prophet Isaiah wrote in his book, "A voice cries out in the desert: 'Prepare the way for the Lord! Make his paths straight! <a href="/gnt/luke/3.htm">Good News Translation</a> As it is written in the book of the prophet Isaiah: "Someone is shouting in the desert: 'Get the road ready for the Lord; make a straight path for him to travel! <a href="/isv/luke/3.htm">International Standard Version</a> as it is written in the book of the words of the prophet Isaiah, "He is a voice calling out in the wilderness: 'Prepare the way for the Lord! Make his paths straight! <a href="/msb/luke/3.htm">Majority Standard Bible</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="/net/luke/3.htm">NET Bible</a> As it is written in the book of the words of Isaiah the prophet, "The voice of one shouting in the wilderness: 'Prepare the way for the Lord, make his paths straight. <a href="/nheb/luke/3.htm">New Heart English Bible</a> As it is written in the scroll of the words of Isaiah the prophet, "The voice of one crying in the wilderness, 'Prepare the way of the Lord. Make his roads straight. <a href="/wbt/luke/3.htm">Webster's Bible Translation</a> As it is written in the book of the words of Isaiah the prophet, saying, The voice of one crying in the wilderness, Prepare ye the way of the Lord, make his paths straight. <a href="/wey/luke/3.htm">Weymouth New Testament</a> as it is written in the book of the prophet Isaiah, "The voice of one crying aloud! 'In the Desert prepare ye a road for the Lord: make His highway straight. <a href="/web/luke/3.htm">World English Bible</a> As it is written in the book of the words of Isaiah the prophet, “The voice of one crying in the wilderness, ‘Make ready the way of the Lord. Make his paths straight. <div class="vheading2">Literal Translations</div><a href="/lsv/luke/3.htm">Literal Standard Version</a> as it has been written in the scroll of the words of Isaiah the prophet: “A voice of one crying in the wilderness: Prepare the way of the LORD, "" Make His paths straight; <a href="/blb/luke/3.htm">Berean Literal Bible</a> as it has been written in the book of the words of Isaiah the prophet: "The voice of one crying in the wilderness, 'Prepare the way of the Lord; make His paths straight.' <a href="/ylt/luke/3.htm">Young's Literal Translation</a> as it hath been written in the scroll of the words of 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/luke/3.htm">Smith's Literal Translation</a> As it has been written in the book of the words of Esaias the prophet, saying, A voice of him crying in the desert, Prepare ye the way of the Lord, make his footpaths straight.<div class="vheading2">Catholic Translations</div><a href="/drb/luke/3.htm">Douay-Rheims Bible</a> As it was written in the book of the sayings of Isaias the prophet: A voice of one crying in the wilderness: Prepare ye the way of the Lord, make straight his paths. <a href="/cpdv/luke/3.htm">Catholic Public Domain Version</a> just as it has been written in the book of the sermons of the prophet Isaiah: “The voice of one crying out in the wilderness: Prepare the way of the Lord. Make straight his paths. <a href="/nabre/luke/3.htm">New American Bible</a> as it is written in the book of the words of the prophet Isaiah: “A voice of one crying out in the desert: ‘Prepare the way of the Lord, make straight his paths. <a href="/nrsvce/luke/3.htm">New Revised Standard Version</a> as it is written in the book of the words of the prophet Isaiah, “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/luke/3.htm">Lamsa Bible</a> As it is written in the book of the words of Isaiah the prophet, who said, The voice which calls in the wilderness, Prepare the way of the Lord, make the paths of our God straight in the plain. <a href="/aramaic-plain-english/luke/3.htm">Aramaic Bible in Plain English</a> Just as it is written in the book of the words of Isaiah the Prophet, which says, “The voice which cries in the wilderness, 'Prepare the way of THE LORD JEHOVAH and straighten in the plain a road for our God.”<div class="vheading2">NT Translations</div><a href="/anderson/luke/3.htm">Anderson New Testament</a> as it is written in the book of the words of 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="/godbey/luke/3.htm">Godbey New Testament</a> as has been written in the book of 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/luke/3.htm">Haweis New Testament</a> as it is written in the book of the words of the prophet Isaiah, saying, ?The voice of one crying in the wilderness, Prepare ye the way of the Lord, make his paths strait: <a href="/mace/luke/3.htm">Mace New Testament</a> as it is written in the book of the prophecies of Esaias, "the voice of one crying in the desart, prepare ye the way of the Lord, make his paths clear. <a href="/wey/luke/3.htm">Weymouth New Testament</a> as it is written in the book of the prophet Isaiah, "The voice of one crying aloud! 'In the Desert prepare ye a road for the Lord: make His highway straight. <a href="/worrell/luke/3.htm">Worrell New Testament</a> as it has been written in the book of the words of Isaiah the prophet, "The voice of one crying in the wilderness, 'Prepare ye the way of the Lord; make straight His paths. <a href="/worsley/luke/3.htm">Worsley New Testament</a> as it is written in the book of Esaias the prophet, saying, "The voice of one crying in the wilderness, Prepare ye the way of the Lord, make his paths straight: <a href="/parallel/luke/3-4.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/3-5_0Jtd9Lc?start=1042" 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/luke/3.htm">The Mission of John the Baptist</a> …3He went into all the region around the Jordan, preaching a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins, 4<a href="/greek/5613.htm" title="5613: hōs (Adv) -- Probably adverb of comparative from hos; which how, i.e. In that manner.">as</a> <a href="/greek/1125.htm" title="1125: gegraptai (V-RIM/P-3S) -- A primary verb; to grave, especially to write; figuratively, to describe.">it is written</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/976.htm" title="976: biblō (N-DFS) -- Properly, the inner bark of the papyrus plant, i.e. a sheet or scroll of writing.">the book</a> <a href="/greek/3056.htm" title="3056: logōn (N-GMP) -- From lego; something said; by implication, a topic, also reasoning or motive; by extension, a computation; specially, the Divine Expression.">of the words</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."></a> <a href="/greek/2268.htm" title="2268: Ēsaiou (N-GMS) -- Isaiah, the prophet. Of Hebrew origin; Hesaias, an Israelite.">of Isaiah</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.">the prophet:</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/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/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/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> 5Every valley shall be filled in, and every mountain and hill made low. The crooked ways shall be made straight, and the rough ways smooth.…<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="/matthew/3-3.htm">Matthew 3:3</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="/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="/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="/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="/matthew/11-10.htm">Matthew 11:10</a> This is the one about whom it is written: ‘Behold, I will send My messenger ahead of You, who will prepare Your way before You.’ <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="/mark/9-12.htm">Mark 9:12-13</a> He replied, “Elijah does indeed come first, and he restores all things. Why then is it written that the Son of Man must suffer many things and be rejected? / But I tell you that Elijah has indeed come, and they have done to him whatever they wished, just as it is written about him.” <a href="/matthew/17-11.htm">Matthew 17:11-13</a> Jesus replied, “Elijah does indeed come, and he will restore all things. / But I tell you that Elijah has already come, and they did not recognize him, but have done to him whatever they wished. In the same way, the Son of Man will suffer at their hands.” / Then the disciples understood that He was speaking to them about John the Baptist. <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="/acts/13-24.htm">Acts 13:24-25</a> Before the arrival of Jesus, John preached a baptism of repentance to all the people of Israel. / As John was completing his course, he said, ‘Who do you suppose I am? I am not that One. But there is One coming after me whose sandals I am not worthy to untie.’ <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/42-16.htm">Isaiah 42:16</a> I will lead the blind by a way they did not know; I will guide them on unfamiliar paths. I will turn darkness into light before them and rough places into level ground. These things I will do for them, and I will not forsake them.</div> <a name="tsk" id="tsk"><div class="vheading">Treasury of Scripture</div>As it is written in the book of the words of Esaias the prophet, saying, The voice of one crying in the wilderness, Prepare you the way of the Lord, make his paths straight.The voice.<a href="/isaiah/40-3.htm">Isaiah 40:3-5</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="/matthew/3-3.htm">Matthew 3:3</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="/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.Prepare.<a href="/luke/1-16.htm">Luke 1:16,17,76-79</a> And many of the children of Israel shall he turn to the Lord their God… <a href="/isaiah/57-14.htm">Isaiah 57:14</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="/isaiah/62-10.htm">Isaiah 62:10</a> Go through, go through the gates; prepare ye the way of the people; cast up, cast up the highway; gather out the stones; lift up a standard for the people.<div class="vheading">Jump to Previous</div><a href="/luke/3-3.htm">Baptism</a> <a href="/mark/12-26.htm">Book</a> <a href="/mark/15-35.htm">Crying</a> <a href="/luke/3-3.htm">Desert</a> <a href="/luke/3-3.htm">District</a> <a href="/mark/7-6.htm">Esaias</a> <a href="/luke/3-3.htm">Forgiveness</a> <a href="/mark/7-6.htm">Isaiah</a> <a href="/luke/3-3.htm">John</a> <a href="/luke/3-3.htm">Jordan</a> <a href="/mark/1-3.htm">Paths</a> <a href="/mark/1-4.htm">Penitent</a> <a href="/luke/2-31.htm">Prepare</a> <a href="/luke/3-3.htm">Proclaiming</a> <a href="/luke/2-36.htm">Prophet</a> <a href="/luke/2-32.htm">Ready</a> <a href="/mark/1-3.htm">Roads</a> <a href="/luke/1-64.htm">Straight</a> <a href="/luke/1-67.htm">Voice</a> <a href="/luke/1-80.htm">Waste</a> <a href="/luke/2-48.htm">Way</a> <a href="/luke/3-2.htm">Wilderness</a> <a href="/luke/2-51.htm">Words</a> <a href="/luke/2-23.htm">Written</a><div class="vheading2">Jump to Next</div><a href="/luke/3-7.htm">Baptism</a> <a href="/luke/3-5.htm">Book</a> <a href="/luke/3-5.htm">Crying</a> <a href="/luke/3-5.htm">Desert</a> <a href="/luke/4-14.htm">District</a> <a href="/luke/4-17.htm">Esaias</a> <a href="/luke/5-20.htm">Forgiveness</a> <a href="/luke/3-5.htm">Isaiah</a> <a href="/luke/3-7.htm">John</a> <a href="/luke/4-1.htm">Jordan</a> <a href="/acts/2-28.htm">Paths</a> <a href="/luke/13-3.htm">Penitent</a> <a href="/luke/3-5.htm">Prepare</a> <a href="/luke/3-18.htm">Proclaiming</a> <a href="/luke/3-5.htm">Prophet</a> <a href="/luke/7-2.htm">Ready</a> <a href="/luke/3-6.htm">Roads</a> <a href="/luke/3-5.htm">Straight</a> <a href="/luke/3-5.htm">Voice</a> <a href="/luke/3-17.htm">Waste</a> <a href="/luke/4-16.htm">Way</a> <a href="/luke/4-1.htm">Wilderness</a> <a href="/luke/3-18.htm">Words</a> <a href="/luke/3-5.htm">Written</a><div class="vheading2">Luke 3</div>1. <a href="/luke/3-1.htm">The preaching and baptism of John;</a> 15. <a href="/luke/3-15.htm">his testimony of Jesus;</a> 19. <a href="/luke/3-19.htm">Herod imprisons John;</a> 21. <a href="/luke/3-21.htm">Jesus, baptized, receives testimony from heaven.</a> 23. <a href="/luke/3-23.htm">The age and genealogy of Jesus from Joseph upwards.</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/luke/3.htm">Study Bible</a></td><td width="1%" valign="top"><a href="/study/luke/" title="Book Summary and Study">Book ◦</a> <a href="/study/chapters/luke/3.htm" title="Chapter summary and Study">Chapter </a></tr></table></div>as it is written in the book of the words of Isaiah the prophet: This phrase indicates that the passage is a fulfillment of Old Testament prophecy, specifically from the book of Isaiah. <a href="/isaiah/40-3.htm">Isaiah 40:3</a> is the source, highlighting the continuity between the Old and New Testaments. The use of Isaiah underscores the authority and divine inspiration of the message. Isaiah, a major prophet, wrote during a time of impending judgment and hope for restoration, and his words are seen as foretelling the coming of John the Baptist as the forerunner to Christ.A voice of one calling in the wilderness: The "voice" refers to John the Baptist, who preached in the wilderness of Judea. The wilderness symbolizes a place of spiritual renewal and preparation, echoing Israel's history of wandering and transformation. John's ministry in the wilderness fulfills the prophetic imagery of a voice crying out in a desolate place, calling people to repentance and readiness for the Messiah. The wilderness setting also emphasizes separation from the corruption of society and a return to God.‘Prepare the way for the Lord: This command is a call to spiritual preparation and repentance. In ancient times, preparing a way for a king involved clearing obstacles and making roads passable. Spiritually, it signifies removing sin and obstacles from one's life to receive the Lord. The "Lord" here refers to Jesus Christ, affirming His divine authority and messianic role. This preparation is both individual and communal, urging Israel to be ready for the coming of their Savior.make straight paths for Him: The imagery of making straight paths suggests moral and spiritual alignment with God's will. It involves correcting one's life and actions to be in accordance with divine standards. This phrase implies urgency and intentionality in preparing for the Lord's arrival. The straight paths symbolize righteousness and truth, contrasting with the crooked ways of sin and disobedience. This call to action is a central theme in John the Baptist's ministry, urging people to live lives worthy of the coming Messiah.<div class="vheading2">Persons / Places / Events</div>1. <a href="/topical/i/isaiah_the_prophet.htm">Isaiah the Prophet</a> An Old Testament prophet whose writings are often quoted in the New Testament. He prophesied about the coming of the Messiah and the preparation needed for His arrival. 2. <a href="/topical/j/john_the_baptist.htm">John the Baptist</a> The "voice" referred to in this passage, who preached repentance and baptized people in the Jordan River, preparing the way for Jesus Christ. 3. <a href="/topical/t/the_wilderness.htm">The Wilderness</a> A significant place in biblical accounts, often symbolizing a place of testing, preparation, and encounter with God. John the Baptist's ministry took place in the wilderness, fulfilling Isaiah's prophecy. 4. <a href="/topical/t/the_lord.htm">The Lord</a> Refers to Jesus Christ, whose coming was being prepared by John the Baptist's ministry. 5. <a href="/topical/t/the_book_of_isaiah.htm">The Book of Isaiah</a> A prophetic book in the Old Testament that contains the original prophecy quoted in this verse, specifically <a href="/isaiah/40-3.htm">Isaiah 40:3</a>.<div class="vheading2">Teaching Points</div><a href="/topical/t/the_importance_of_preparation.htm">The Importance of Preparation</a> Just as John the Baptist prepared the way for Jesus, we are called to prepare our 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 message of repentance is crucial for making "straight paths" for the Lord in our lives. True repentance involves a change of heart and direction. <a href="/topical/t/the_role_of_prophecy.htm">The Role of Prophecy</a> The fulfillment of Isaiah's prophecy in John the Baptist's ministry underscores the reliability and divine inspiration of Scripture. <a href="/topical/w/wilderness_experiences.htm">Wilderness Experiences</a> Times of spiritual wilderness can be opportunities for growth and preparation for what God is about to do in our lives. <a href="/topical/t/the_call_to_be_a_voice.htm">The Call to Be a Voice</a> Like John, we are called to be voices in our own "wilderness," pointing others to Christ and preparing the way for His work in their lives.<div class="vheading2">Lists and Questions</div><a href="/top10/lessons_from_luke_3.htm">Top 10 Lessons from Luke 3</a> <a href="/q/why_is_memorizing_scripture_important.htm">Why is memorizing Scripture important?</a> <a href="/q/who_was_john_the_baptist's_role.htm">Who was John the Baptist and what was his role?</a> <a href="/q/what_is_st._jean_baptiste_day.htm">What is St. Jean Baptiste Day?</a> <a href="/q/what_did_jesus_mean_by_'get_behind_me'.htm">What did Jesus mean by 'Get behind me, Satan'?</a><a name="commentary" id="commentary"></a><div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/ellicott/luke/3.htm">Ellicott's Commentary for English Readers</a></div>(4) The voice of one crying in the wilderness.--See Note on <a href="/matthew/3-3.htm" title="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.">Matthew 3:3</a>.(4) From David to Abraham there is a general agreement, the only variation being that, in some MSS., the names of Arni and Admei in St. Luke (<a href="/luke/3-33.htm" title="Which was the son of Aminadab, which was the son of Aram, which was the son of Esrom, which was the son of Phares, which was the son of Juda,">Luke 3:33</a>) replace the Aram of St. Matthew.(4) The comparative slight variation here is such as may easily have arisen in the process of transcription from an Aramaic document into Greek. The received reading, "Aram," was probably a correction in order to bring the genealogy into agreement with St. Matthew's.<div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/pulpit/luke/3.htm">Pulpit Commentary</a></div>Verse 4. - As it is written in the book of the words of Esaias the prophet, saying, voice of one crying in the wilderness. The prophet quoted (<a href="/isaiah/40-3.htm">Isaiah 40:3</a>) had been writing in his solitude, or more probably in some great popular assembly preaching to the people. There was doubtless at that time much national trouble threatening Israel; the future of the chosen race looked very dark and gloomy, within and without. We can hear the man of God speaking with intense earnestness, and looking on to brighter times. "Comfort ye, comfort ye my people, saith your God. Speak ye comfortably to Jerusalem, and cry unto her, that her warfare is accomplished, that her iniquity is pardoned," etc.; and then a sudden burst when the prophet, bending forward and straining his ears to hear some sound none other caught but he, goes on in his rapt utterance - I hear a voice, "The voice of him that crieth in the wilderness, Prepare ye the way of the Lord." Prepare ye the way of the Lord, make his paths straight. The image is a simple one, and in the East one well knows, where the roads are comparatively few, and where they do exist are often in a bad state, when a sovereign is about to visit any part of his dominions, or still more if the march of an army has to be arranged for, the roads require considerable preparation. Josephus ('Bell. Jud.,' 3:06) describes the advance of the Emperor Vespasian's army, and specially mentions how the pioneers and the vanguard had to make the road even and straight, and, if it were anywhere rough hard to be passed over, to plane it. There was a Jewish legend that this special pioneering work in the desert was done by the pillar of cloud and fire, which brought low the mountains and filled the valleys before the Israelitic march. John's special work was to prepare the way for the advent of a Messiah very different to the one the people looked for - to prepare his way by a spiritual reformation in the heart, the mind, and the character. <a href="/commentaries/luke/3-4.htm">Parallel Commentaries ...</a> <a name="lexicon" id="lexicon"></a><div class="vheading">Greek</div>as ὡς (hōs) Adverb <a href="/greek/strongs_5613.htm">Strong's 5613: </a> Probably adverb of comparative from hos; which how, i.e. In that manner. it is written γέγραπται (gegraptai) Verb - Perfect Indicative Middle or Passive - 3rd Person Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_1125.htm">Strong's 1125: </a> A primary verb; to 'grave', especially to write; figuratively, to describe. 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] book βίβλῳ (biblō) Noun - Dative Feminine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_976.htm">Strong's 976: </a> Properly, the inner bark of the papyrus plant, i.e. a sheet or scroll of writing. of [the] words λόγων (logōn) Noun - Genitive Masculine Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_3056.htm">Strong's 3056: </a> From lego; something said; by implication, a topic, also reasoning or motive; by extension, a computation; specially, the Divine Expression. of 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. [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. “[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/luke/3-4.htm">Luke 3:4 NIV</a> <a href="/nlt/luke/3-4.htm">Luke 3:4 NLT</a> <a href="/esv/luke/3-4.htm">Luke 3:4 ESV</a> <a href="/nasb/luke/3-4.htm">Luke 3:4 NASB</a> <a href="/kjv/luke/3-4.htm">Luke 3:4 KJV</a> <a href="//bibleapps.com/luke/3-4.htm">Luke 3:4 BibleApps.com</a> <a href="//bibliaparalela.com/luke/3-4.htm">Luke 3:4 Biblia Paralela</a> <a href="//holybible.com.cn/luke/3-4.htm">Luke 3:4 Chinese Bible</a> <a href="//saintebible.com/luke/3-4.htm">Luke 3:4 French Bible</a> <a href="/catholic/luke/3-4.htm">Luke 3:4 Catholic Bible</a> <a href="/luke/3-4.htm">NT Gospels: Luke 3:4 As it is written in the book (Luke Lu Lk) </a></div></div></td></tr></table></div><div id="left"><a href="/luke/3-3.htm" onmouseover='lft.src="/leftgif.png"' onmouseout='lft.src="/left.png"' title="Luke 3:3"><img src="/left.png" name="lft" border="0" alt="Luke 3:3" /></a></div><div id="right"><a href="/luke/3-5.htm" onmouseover='rght.src="/rightgif.png"' onmouseout='rght.src="/right.png"' title="Luke 3:5"><img src="/right.png" name="rght" border="0" alt="Luke 3:5" /></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>