Luke 3:14

In Luke 3:14, we find a direct encounter between John the Baptist and a group of soldiers, who, like others in the crowd, are seeking guidance on how to live righteously in response to his call for repentance. This verse provides specific ethical instructions for those in positions of power and authority.

Context

This passage is part of John the Baptist's ministry, where he is preaching repentance and baptizing people in the Jordan. Following his powerful exhortations to "bring forth therefore fruits worthy of repentance" (Luke 3:8), various groups approach him asking, "What shall we do then?" (Luke 3:10). After advising tax collectors, John is then confronted by soldiers. Given the nature of military service under Roman occupation, soldiers were often associated with intimidation, extortion, and abuse of power. Their question shows a genuine desire to align their profession with the principles of the coming kingdom.

Key Themes

• Ethical Conduct in Profession: John does not tell the soldiers to abandon their profession, but rather to conduct themselves with integrity within it. This emphasizes that one can serve God in any legitimate calling, provided it is done righteously.
• Justice and Non-Violence: The command to "Do violence to no man" (Greek: diaseiō, meaning to extort or intimidate) directly addresses the abuse of power common among soldiers. Similarly, "neither accuse any falsely" (Greek: sukophanteō, meaning to slander or extort by false accusation) speaks to the need for honesty and fairness, preventing corruption and false charges. This highlights the principles of justice and ethical conduct that should govern all interactions.
• Contentment: The instruction to "be content with your wages" directly counters the temptation for greed and extortion. It encourages satisfaction with one's rightful earnings, fostering a spirit of integrity and reliance on God's provision. This theme resonates with the broader biblical teaching on the importance of contentment.

Linguistic Insights

• The phrase "Do violence to no man" comes from the Greek word diaseiō (διασείω), which literally means "to shake thoroughly" or "to extort by intimidation." It refers to the act of using one's position or power to unlawfully take money or goods from others through threats or force.
• "Accuse [any] falsely" translates the Greek word sukophanteō (συκοφαντέω), which originally referred to someone who reported those exporting figs illegally. Over time, it came to mean a false accuser, a slanderer, or one who extorts money by false accusations. This was a significant problem during that era, particularly with those in authority.
• "Be content with your wages" uses the Greek term arkeō (ἀρκέω), meaning to be sufficient, to be satisfied, or to be enough. It implies accepting what is justly due and not seeking illicit gain.

Practical Application

Luke 3:14 remains highly relevant today, not just for those in military or law enforcement, but for anyone in a position of authority, influence, or public trust. It calls believers to:

• Exercise Authority Righteously: To use power and influence responsibly, without abusing it for personal gain or to oppress others.
• Uphold Honesty and Truth: To avoid slander, false accusations, and deceitful practices in all dealings.
• Practice Contentment: To find satisfaction in honest work and fair compensation, resisting the temptation of greed and corruption, which often leads to unethical behavior.

This verse reminds us that true repentance and faith are demonstrated not by abandoning one's calling, but by living out biblical principles of justice, integrity, and contentment within that calling, regardless of how challenging the environment may be.