Luke 3:14

KJV

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.

KJV (with Strong's)

And {G1161} the soldiers {G4754} likewise {G2532} demanded {G1905} of him {G846}, saying {G3004}, And {G2532} what {G5101} shall we {G2249} do {G4160}? And {G2532} he said {G2036} unto {G4314} them {G846}, Do violence {G1286} to no man {G3367}, neither {G3366} accuse any falsely {G4811}; and {G2532} be content {G714} with your {G5216} wages {G3800}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Some soldiers asked him, "What about us? What should we do?" To them he said, "Don't intimidate anyone, don't accuse people falsely, and be satisfied with your pay."

Berean Standard Bible

Then some soldiers asked him, “And what should we do?” “Do not take money by force or false accusation,” he said. “Be content with your wages.”

American Standard Version

And soldiers also asked him, saying, And we, what must we do? And he said unto them, Extort from no man by violence, neither accuse any one wrongfully; and be content with your wages.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Luke 3:14 presents John the Baptist's specific ethical counsel to soldiers who, like other groups, sought practical guidance on how to live out their repentance. This pivotal verse underscores that genuine faith is not merely an internal conviction but demands tangible, ethical conduct within one's vocation, particularly for those in positions of power. John's instructions emphasize integrity, non-violence, honesty, and contentment, providing a timeless model for righteous living in any profession.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is situated within the broader narrative of John the Baptist's ministry, which immediately precedes and prepares the way for Jesus's public ministry. Following John's powerful call for repentance and his exhortation to "bring forth therefore fruits worthy of repentance" ([Luke 3:8](/luke/3-8 "Luke 3:8 - John the Baptist's Call for Repentance")), various groups approach him with the earnest question, "What shall we do then?" ([Luke 3:10](/luke/3-10 "Luke 3:10 - The Crowd's Question to John")). John first addresses the general crowd (Luke 3:10-11), then tax collectors (Luke 3:12-13), and finally, in this verse, soldiers. This sequence highlights John's practical, applied ethics, demonstrating that repentance requires specific, behavioral changes relevant to one's station and temptations. It also shows the widespread impact of John's preaching, reaching diverse segments of society.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The Judea of John the Baptist's time was under Roman occupation, and soldiers, whether Roman auxiliaries, Herodian troops, or local militia, were highly visible and powerful figures. Their profession often afforded them opportunities for abuse of power, including intimidation, extortion, and false accusations, especially given the common practice of soldiers being billeted among the populace and their authority over civilians. Wages for soldiers were often meager, which could incentivize illicit gain through coercion or bribery. The fact that these soldiers approached John indicates a genuine spiritual hunger and a desire to reconcile their demanding and often morally compromised profession with the ethical demands of God's coming kingdom. John's response, notably, does not command them to abandon their military service but to transform their conduct within it.
* **Key Themes:** Luke 3:14 powerfully contributes to several overarching themes in Luke's Gospel and biblical theology. Firstly, it emphasizes **Practical Repentance**, demonstrating that true repentance is not merely an emotional or intellectual assent but leads to concrete, ethical transformation in daily life and vocation. Secondly, it highlights **Ethical Conduct in Profession**, asserting that one can serve God and live righteously within any legitimate calling, provided it is done with integrity and justice. John's refusal to tell the soldiers to leave their jobs affirms the dignity of all honest labor, even those with inherent temptations. Thirdly, the commands against violence and false accusation underscore the theme of **Justice and Righteousness**, advocating for fair and honest dealings, particularly for those in positions of authority who might be tempted to oppress the vulnerable. Finally, the instruction to "be content with your wages" introduces the theme of **Contentment and Trust in God's Provision**, directly countering the pervasive temptation of greed and illicit gain, a theme echoed throughout the Scriptures, such as in [1 Timothy 6:6-8](/1_timothy/6-6-8 "1 Timothy 6:6-8 - The Value of Godliness with Contentment").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **diaseíō (Greek, _diaseíō'_):** From _dia_ (through) and _seíō_ (to shake), this word literally means "to shake thoroughly." Figuratively, as used here, it means "to intimidate" or "to extort by intimidation." John's command, "Do violence to no man" (KJV), directly addresses the common abuse of power by soldiers who would use their authority and physical presence to coerce money or goods from civilians, often through threats or actual force. It speaks to the unlawful acquisition of resources through a position of power.
* **sykophantéō (Greek, _sykophantéō'_):** This term, translated "accuse falsely," has a fascinating origin. It derives from _sykon_ (fig) and _phaínō_ (to show), originally referring to an informer who reported those illegally exporting figs from Athens. Over time, it evolved to mean a false accuser, a slanderer, or specifically, one who extorts money by means of false accusations. This instruction warns against the abuse of legal or military authority to fabricate charges against innocent people for personal gain, a pervasive problem in ancient societies.
* **arkéō (Greek, _arkéō'_):** Translated "be content," this verb properly means "to ward off" or "to be sufficient." By implication, it means "to avail" or "to be satisfactory." In this context, it conveys the idea of being satisfied with what is justly due or sufficient, rather than seeking more through illicit means. It calls for a spirit of contentment with one's rightful earnings, fostering integrity and trust in God's provision, rather than succumbing to greed and the temptation to extort.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And the soldiers likewise demanded of him, saying, And what shall we do?":** This clause highlights the universal applicability of John's message of repentance. Just as the crowd and tax collectors sought specific guidance, so too did the soldiers, indicating a genuine desire for practical instruction on how to align their profession with God's will. Their question reveals a recognition that their occupation presented unique moral challenges.
* **"And he said unto them,":** This simple phrase introduces John's authoritative and direct response, underscoring his role as a prophet delivering God's ethical demands.
* **"Do violence to no man,":** This is a direct command against the abuse of power. It specifically forbids the use of intimidation, threats, or physical force to extort money or goods from civilians. It calls for soldiers to exercise their authority justly and without oppression, protecting rather than preying upon the populace.
* **"neither accuse [any] falsely;":** This command addresses another common abuse of military power: fabricating charges or slandering individuals to extract bribes or personal gain. It demands honesty and integrity in all official dealings, preventing corruption and the perversion of justice.
* **"and be content with your wages.":** This final instruction is foundational. It counters the root temptation for the previous abuses—greed. By commanding contentment with their legitimate pay, John challenges the soldiers to resist the urge for illicit gain, encouraging satisfaction with what is justly earned and trust in God's provision rather than resorting to extortion or false accusation.

#### Literary Devices
Luke 3:14 is rich in **Direct Discourse**, presenting John the Baptist's unmediated words to the soldiers, which lends immediacy and authority to his ethical instructions. The passage functions as a clear example of **Didacticism** or **Ethical Instruction**, providing explicit moral commands for a specific vocational group. There is a strong element of **Contrast** inherent in John's commands; he challenges the common and often expected abuses of power by soldiers (violence, false accusation, greed) with a counter-cultural call to integrity, justice, and contentment. This creates a powerful tension between the fallen human tendency to exploit power and the divine expectation of righteous conduct. The commands themselves ("Do violence to no man, neither accuse any falsely; and be content with your wages") form a **Triadic Structure**, offering three distinct yet interconnected ethical imperatives that collectively define righteous conduct within their profession.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Luke 3:14 offers profound theological and thematic connections, extending far beyond the specific context of soldiers. It fundamentally teaches that true repentance, a core theme of John's ministry and the broader New Testament, necessitates practical, ethical transformation in every sphere of life, including one's profession. It underscores the biblical principle that all legitimate work can be a sphere for God's glory, provided it is conducted with integrity, justice, and contentment. This aligns with the Old Testament prophetic calls for social justice and righteous governance, emphasizing protection for the vulnerable and condemnation of oppression. The verse also implicitly teaches about the nature of authority: it is a trust to be stewarded for good, not a tool for personal gain or exploitation. Ultimately, it points to a kingdom ethic where the pursuit of righteousness and the satisfaction found in honest labor supersede the temptations of greed and illicit power.

* [Micah 6:8](/micah/6-8 "Micah 6:8 - What the Lord Requires")
* [1 Timothy 6:6](/1_timothy/6-6 "1 Timothy 6:6 - Godliness with Contentment")
* [Romans 13:7](/romans/13-7 "Romans 13:7 - Render to All Their Dues")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Luke 3:14 resonates powerfully in contemporary society, extending its relevance far beyond military personnel to anyone in a position of authority, influence, or public trust. It serves as a timeless call for ethical conduct in all vocations. For believers, it challenges us to view our work not merely as a means to an end, but as a primary arena for demonstrating our faith and living out the principles of the Kingdom of God. We are called to exercise any power or influence we possess righteously, serving others rather than exploiting them. This means actively resisting the pervasive temptations of corruption, dishonesty, and greed that can infiltrate any profession. Furthermore, the command to be content with our wages encourages a posture of gratitude and trust in God's provision, freeing us from the endless pursuit of more that often leads to unethical compromises. True repentance, as exemplified here, transforms our actions, ensuring that our professional lives reflect the integrity and justice of Christ.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what ways might my current profession or role present temptations to "do violence" (i.e., abuse power or intimidate) or "accuse falsely" (i.e., act dishonestly or unjustly)?**
* **How can I cultivate a spirit of contentment with my rightful earnings and resist the societal pressure to always seek more, especially through illicit or questionable means?**
* **What practical steps can I take this week to ensure that my work reflects biblical principles of justice, integrity, and service to others?**
* **How does my attitude toward my work and compensation reflect my trust in God's provision and my commitment to His kingdom values?**

### FAQ
**Did John the Baptist tell the soldiers to leave their military profession?**

Answer: No, John the Baptist did not instruct the soldiers to abandon their military service. Instead, he provided specific ethical guidelines for how they should conduct themselves within their existing profession. This is significant because it affirms that one can serve God and live righteously in any legitimate vocation, even one with inherent temptations for abuse of power, provided that one adheres to principles of justice, integrity, and contentment. His response validates their calling while challenging them to transform their behavior within it, making their work a sphere of ethical witness rather than a source of corruption.

**What does "do violence to no man" mean for us today?**

Answer: While originally directed at soldiers, the command "do violence to no man" (Greek _diaseíō_, meaning to intimidate or extort by force) broadly applies to any abuse of power. For us today, it means refraining from using our position, authority, or influence—whether in business, government, education, or even personal relationships—to intimidate, coerce, exploit, or unjustly take advantage of others. It calls us to exercise power with humility, fairness, and a commitment to protecting the vulnerable, rather than oppressing them for personal gain.

**How does "be content with your wages" apply in a modern economic context?**

Answer: The instruction to "be content with your wages" (Greek _arkéō_, meaning to be sufficient or satisfied) remains profoundly relevant. In a world often driven by consumerism and the pursuit of endless accumulation, this command challenges us to find satisfaction in what is justly earned through honest labor. It encourages us to resist the temptation of greed, illicit gain, or dishonest practices (like bribery, embezzlement, or inflated pricing) that often arise from a lack of contentment. It fosters a spirit of gratitude for God's provision and encourages ethical financial practices, trusting that what we have is sufficient.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Luke 3:14, while a direct ethical instruction from John the Baptist, finds its ultimate fulfillment and deeper meaning in Jesus Christ. John's call for ethical conduct within one's vocation foreshadows the radical transformation brought about by the Kingdom of God, perfectly embodied in Jesus. Christ Himself is the supreme example of righteous authority, consistently using His power not for personal gain or oppression, but for healing, serving, and ultimately, giving His life as a ransom for many ([Mark 10:42-45](/mark/10-42-45 "Mark 10:42-45 - True Greatness in Service")). His life demonstrates perfect integrity, justice, and contentment, as He trusted fully in the Father's provision and never succumbed to worldly temptations to misuse His divine power ([Matthew 4:1-11](/matthew/4-1-11 "Matthew 4:1-11 - The Temptation of Jesus")). Furthermore, the ethical demands John places on the soldiers are made possible for believers through Christ's redemptive work. We are no longer bound by the power of sin that leads to greed, violence, and dishonesty. Through faith in Jesus, we are given a new heart and empowered by the Holy Spirit to live out these very principles. The Spirit enables us to "put off your old self, which belongs to your former manner of life... and to put on the new self, created after the likeness of God in true righteousness and holiness" ([Ephesians 4:22-24](/ephesians/4-22-24 "Ephesians 4:22-24 - Putting on the New Self")). Thus, the contentment, non-violence, and honesty commanded by John are not merely human efforts but fruits of the Spirit, enabling believers to be salt and light in their respective callings, reflecting the character of Christ in a fallen world ([Matthew 5:13-16](/matthew/5-13-16 "Matthew 5:13-16 - Salt and Light")).

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

Hebrews 13:5

[Let your] conversation [be] without covetousness; [and be] content with such things as ye have: for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee.

Hebrews 13:6

So that we may boldly say, The Lord [is] my helper, and I will not fear what man shall do unto me.

Exodus 20:16

Thou shalt not bear false witness against thy neighbour.

Philippians 4:11

Not that I speak in respect of want: for I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, [therewith] to be content.

Exodus 23:1

¶ Thou shalt not raise a false report: put not thine hand with the wicked to be an unrighteous witness.

1 Timothy 6:8

And having food and raiment let us be therewith content.

1 Timothy 6:10

For the love of money is the root of all evil: which while some coveted after, they have erred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows.