Luke 3:13 - He said to them, “Collect no more than that which is appointed to you.”

Generated Verse: Luke 3:13

What does "Luke 3:13" mean?


This verse, Luke 3:13, is part of John the Baptist's teachings on repentance and righteousness. Let's break down what it means:

"He said to them..." This refers to John the Baptist, who was preaching in the wilderness and calling people to repentance in preparation for the coming of the Messiah.

"...“Collect no more than that which is appointed to you.”..." This specifically addresses tax collectors (also known as publicans). In that time, tax collectors were often Jewish people who worked for the Roman Empire. They were notorious for overcharging people and pocketing the extra money for themselves.

"Collect no more..." This is a direct command to stop the practice of extortion and overcharging.
"...than that which is appointed to you.” This emphasizes sticking to the legally and ethically agreed-upon tax amount. They should not take advantage of their position for personal gain. They should be honest and fair in their dealings.

In Essence:

John the Baptist is telling the tax collectors to be honest and fair in their work. They should only collect the amount of taxes that they are legally required to collect, and not exploit their position for personal enrichment through overcharging.

Wider Significance:

This verse illustrates John's message of repentance being more than just words; it demands practical changes in behavior. It reflects a call for justice, honesty, and ethical conduct in all aspects of life, especially for those in positions of power or influence. It teaches that true repentance involves turning away from sinful practices and embracing righteousness in one's daily actions.