Luke 3:10

KJV

And the people asked him, saying, What shall we do then?

KJV (with Strong's)

And {G2532} the people {G3793} asked {G1905} him {G846}, saying {G3004}, What {G5101} shall we do {G4160} then {G3767}?

Complete Jewish Bible

The crowds asked Yochanan, "So then, what should we do?"

Berean Standard Bible

The crowds asked him, “What then should we do?”

American Standard Version

And the multitudes asked him, saying, What then must we do?

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Luke 3:10 captures the immediate and profound response of the multitude to John the Baptist's potent call for repentance. Having been challenged to produce tangible evidence of their changed hearts, the people earnestly inquire of John what specific actions they must take to demonstrate a life truly aligned with his message and the coming judgment. This pivotal question underscores a deep desire for practical guidance on how to live out a transformed faith, moving beyond mere intellectual assent to active obedience.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is situated at a critical juncture in John the Baptist's ministry, immediately following his sharp rebuke of the crowds, particularly the Pharisees and Sadducees, whom he labels a "generation of vipers" ([Luke 3:7](/luke/3-7 "Luke 3:7 - John's Rebuke of the Crowds")). John's preaching emphasizes that mere lineage or religious affiliation offers no protection from divine wrath; rather, true repentance must be evidenced by "fruits worthy of repentance" ([Luke 3:8](/luke/3-8 "Luke 3:8 - Fruits Worthy of Repentance")). He warns of the axe laid to the root of the trees, signifying imminent judgment for those who do not bear good fruit ([Luke 3:9](/luke/3-9 "Luke 3:9 - The Axe Laid to the Root")). The people's question in Luke 3:10 is a direct, earnest response to this challenging sermon, indicating that they grasped the practical implications of John's message and were seeking concrete steps for a changed life, setting the stage for John's specific instructions in the subsequent verses.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** John the Baptist's ministry occurred in Judea during a period of Roman occupation, a time marked by significant social and political unrest, alongside fervent messianic expectation among the Jewish people. John preached in the wilderness, a symbolic location reminiscent of Israel's covenant origins and prophetic movements. His call for repentance (metanoia) was not merely a spiritual concept but had profound social and ethical implications within Jewish society, where righteousness was often understood in terms of adherence to the Mosaic Law and traditional practices. The crowds that gathered included diverse groups—tax collectors, soldiers, and common people—each with unique societal roles and temptations. Their question, "What shall we do then?", reflects a cultural understanding that religious conviction must translate into ethical conduct, especially in preparation for the coming of the Messiah and the anticipated Day of the Lord.
* **Key Themes:** Luke 3:10 powerfully contributes to several overarching themes within Luke's Gospel and the broader biblical narrative. Foremost is the theme of **Repentance and Transformation**, emphasizing that genuine repentance (metanoia) is not just sorrow for sin but a radical change of mind that leads to a change in behavior, producing "fruit" that aligns with God's will. This verse highlights the theme of **Practical Righteousness**, demonstrating that faith must be lived out through concrete actions in daily life, as John's subsequent instructions to various groups illustrate ([Luke 3:11-14](/luke/3-11-14 "Luke 3:11-14 - John's Specific Instructions")). Furthermore, it underscores the theme of **Seeking Divine Guidance**, as the people's earnest inquiry reveals a desire to understand and obey God's will, a foundational aspect of discipleship. Finally, the verse serves as a crucial element in the theme of **Preparation for the Messiah**, as John's ministry was designed to prepare the hearts of the people for the arrival of Jesus, the one who would baptize with the Holy Spirit and with fire ([Luke 3:16](/luke/3-16 "Luke 3:16 - John Baptizes with Water, Jesus with the Spirit")).

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **people (Greek, _óchlos'_):** From a derivative of ἔχω (meaning a vehicle); a throng (as borne along); by implication, the rabble; by extension, a class of people; figuratively, a riot:--company, multitude, number (of people), people, press. This term signifies a large, undifferentiated crowd, often implying the common populace. In this context, it highlights that John's message resonated deeply with a broad cross-section of society, not just a select religious elite, indicating a widespread spiritual hunger and a collective sense of urgency.
* **asked (Greek, _eperōtáō'_):** From ἐπί and ἐρωτάω; to ask for, i.e. inquire, seek:--ask (after, questions), demand, desire, question. This verb denotes a direct, earnest inquiry, often implying a desire for information or guidance. It's more than casual curiosity; it suggests a genuine seeking of instruction or clarification, reflecting the crowd's serious consideration of John's challenging words and their desire to know how to respond appropriately.
* **do (Greek, _poiéō'_):** Apparently a prolonged form of an obsolete primary; to make or do (in a very wide application, more or less direct):--abide, + agree, appoint, X avenge, + band together, be, bear, + bewray, bring (forth), cast out, cause, commit, + content, continue, deal, + without any delay, (would) do(-ing), execute, exercise, fulfil, gain, give, have, hold, X journeying, keep, + lay wait, + lighten the ship, make, X mean, + none of these things move me, observe, ordain, perform, provide, + have purged, purpose, put, + raising up, X secure, shew, X shoot out, spend, take, tarry, + transgress the law, work, yield. This versatile verb emphasizes action, production, or performance. In the context of "What shall we do?", it underscores the practical, actionable nature of the people's question, directly linking it to John's preceding demand for "fruits" (actions) worthy of repentance. It signifies a desire for concrete steps rather than abstract theological concepts.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And the people asked him, saying":** This phrase sets the scene, identifying the collective "people" or "multitude" as the ones engaging John. Their act of "asking" is presented as a direct verbal response to his powerful preaching. The use of "saying" introduces their direct question, highlighting the immediate and vocal nature of their inquiry, indicating that John's message had struck a chord and prompted a collective desire for clarification.
* **"What shall we do then?":** This is the core of the verse, a rhetorical question posed by the crowd. The interrogative "What" (Greek, _tís'_) combined with the particle "then" (Greek, _oûn'_) creates a strong logical connection to John's previous statements about bearing fruit worthy of repentance. The question is deliberative and urgent, expressing a genuine desire to understand the practical implications of John's call and to receive specific instructions on how to manifest their repentance through action. It signifies a readiness to move from conviction to conduct.

#### Literary Devices
Luke 3:10 primarily employs **Interrogative Rhetoric**, as the verse is structured around a direct question posed by the people to John the Baptist. This question serves as a powerful device to drive the narrative forward, shifting the focus from John's pronouncements of judgment to the practical implications of repentance. It also utilizes **Call and Response**, where John's fiery sermon acts as the "call" for repentance and the people's question is the "response," demonstrating the immediate impact and effectiveness of his preaching. Furthermore, there is an element of **Implication**, as the question "What shall we do then?" implicitly acknowledges the validity of John's warnings and the necessity of a changed life, demonstrating that the crowd understood the gravity of his message and the need for tangible action. This verse also functions as a **Narrative Bridge**, seamlessly connecting John's general call for "fruit" in [Luke 3:8](/luke/3-8 "Luke 3:8 - Fruits Worthy of Repentance") to his specific instructions for various groups in [Luke 3:11-14](/luke/3-11-14 "Luke 3:11-14 - John's Specific Instructions"), thereby advancing the plot and developing the theme of practical righteousness.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
The question posed in Luke 3:10 is profoundly theological, touching upon the very nature of true repentance and the relationship between faith and works. It highlights that genuine spiritual transformation is never merely an intellectual or emotional assent but demands a practical, demonstrable change in one's life. The people's inquiry underscores the biblical principle that faith, if authentic, will inevitably manifest itself in actions that align with God's will. This is not to say that works earn salvation, but rather that they are the natural and necessary "fruit" of a repentant heart and a transformed life. The question also points to the human need for clear guidance in living out one's faith, recognizing that abstract theological concepts must be translated into concrete, ethical conduct in daily interactions. It affirms that the prophetic voice often serves to challenge complacency and provoke a desire for active obedience.

* [James 2:17](/james/2-17 "James 2:17 - Faith Without Works is Dead"): "Even so faith, if it hath not works, is dead, being alone."
* [Matthew 3:8](/matthew/3-8 "Matthew 3:8 - Bear Fruit in Keeping with Repentance"): "Bring forth therefore fruits meet for repentance."
* [Acts 2:37](/acts/2-37 "Acts 2:37 - Peter's Sermon and the People's Question"): "Now when they heard this, they were pricked in their heart, and said unto Peter and to the rest of the apostles, Men and brethren, what shall we do?"

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The earnest question "What shall we do then?" from the crowd to John the Baptist resonates deeply with believers today, serving as a timeless challenge for authentic discipleship. It compels us to move beyond passive reception of biblical truth to active, intentional living. When confronted with the transformative power of the Gospel, a genuine response is not merely intellectual agreement but a sincere desire to align our lives with God's will. This verse prompts us to examine whether our understanding of repentance leads to tangible changes in our attitudes, words, and actions. It calls us to consider how our faith impacts our daily interactions, our generosity towards others, our integrity in the marketplace, and our contentment in all circumstances. Like the crowd, we should seek specific, practical guidance from Scripture and wise mentors on how to "bear fruit worthy of repentance," ensuring that our spiritual convictions are visibly demonstrated in a life that honors God and serves our neighbors.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does my understanding of repentance translate into tangible actions in my life?**
* **In what areas of my life am I seeking specific guidance from God's Word or spiritual mentors for practical obedience?**
* **What "fruit" does my life currently bear that demonstrates a transformed heart and a commitment to Christ?**
* **If someone were to ask me, "What shall I do then?" after hearing the Gospel, what practical, Christ-centered steps would I offer?**

### FAQ
**Why did the people ask "What shall we do then?" after John's preaching?**

Answer: The people asked this question because John the Baptist's preaching was not merely theoretical; it was a powerful and urgent call to action. He had just warned them to "bring forth therefore fruits worthy of repentance" ([Luke 3:8](/luke/3-8 "Luke 3:8 - Fruits Worthy of Repentance")) and spoke of the axe being laid to the root of the trees, signifying imminent judgment for those who did not bear good fruit ([Luke 3:9](/luke/3-9 "Luke 3:9 - The Axe Laid to the Root")). This challenging message, coupled with the intensity of his prophetic ministry, pricked their consciences. Their question demonstrates that they took his words seriously and understood that genuine repentance required a practical, demonstrable change in their lives. They were seeking concrete instructions on how to live out this transformed state.

**What was John's answer to this question, and why is it significant?**

Answer: John's answer, detailed in the subsequent verses ([Luke 3:11-14](/luke/3-11-14 "Luke 3:11-14 - John's Specific Instructions")), was highly practical and specific to the different groups present. To the general crowd, he commanded generosity: "He that hath two coats, let him impart to him that hath none; and he that hath meat, let him do likewise" ([Luke 3:11](/luke/3-11 "Luke 3:11 - John's Instruction to the Crowds")). To the tax collectors, known for extortion, he said, "Exact no more than that which is appointed you" ([Luke 3:13](/luke/3-13 "Luke 3:13 - John's Instruction to Tax Collectors")). To the soldiers, known for violence and false accusations, he instructed, "Do violence to no man, neither accuse any falsely; and be content with your wages" ([Luke 3:14](/luke/3-14 "Luke 3:14 - John's Instruction to Soldiers")). This is significant because it illustrates that true repentance is not a vague religious feeling but translates into specific, ethical conduct in one's daily life and profession. It shows that the "fruit" of repentance involves justice, integrity, generosity, and contentment, directly addressing the common sins and temptations of the time.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While John the Baptist's ministry was essential in preparing the way, his call for repentance and the people's question "What shall we do then?" find their ultimate and most profound fulfillment in Jesus Christ. John was the forerunner, pointing to the one who would baptize with the Holy Spirit and with fire ([Luke 3:16](/luke/3-16 "Luke 3:16 - John Baptizes with Water, Jesus with the Spirit")). Jesus himself began His public ministry with a similar call to repentance, declaring, "Repent: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand" ([Matthew 4:17](/matthew/4-17 "Matthew 4:17 - Jesus Begins His Ministry")). The "doing" that John commanded was a preparation for receiving the Messiah, but the ultimate "work of God" is to "believe on him whom he hath sent" ([John 6:29](/john/6-29 "John 6:29 - The Work of God is to Believe")). Through Christ, the answer to "What shall we do then?" transcends mere moralistic actions. It is to surrender to His Lordship, to be transformed by His grace, and to live a life empowered by the Holy Spirit. This Spirit enables believers to bear true spiritual fruit—love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control ([Galatians 5:22-23](/galatians/5-22-23 "Galatians 5:22-23 - The Fruit of the Spirit"))—which is far more than human effort can produce. Thus, the question of action is ultimately answered by a life lived in union with Christ, where our "doing" flows from His indwelling presence and transformative power, fulfilling the Law's demands through love and faith in Him ([Romans 13:10](/romans/13-10 "Romans 13:10 - Love is the Fulfillment of the Law")).

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Acts 2:37

¶ Now when they heard [this], they were pricked in their heart, and said unto Peter and to the rest of the apostles, Men [and] brethren, what shall we do?

Luke 3:14

And the soldiers likewise demanded of him, saying, And what shall we do? And he said unto them, Do violence to no man, neither accuse [any] falsely; and be content with your wages.

Acts 16:30

And brought them out, and said, Sirs, what must I do to be saved?

Luke 3:8

Bring forth therefore fruits worthy of repentance, and begin not to say within yourselves, We have Abraham to [our] father: for I say unto you, That God is able of these stones to raise up children unto Abraham.

Acts 9:6

And he trembling and astonished said, Lord, what wilt thou have me to do? And the Lord [said] unto him, Arise, and go into the city, and it shall be told thee what thou must do.

Luke 3:12

Then came also publicans to be baptized, and said unto him, Master, what shall we do?