New International VersionHe replied, “I will also ask you a question. Tell me:
New Living Translation“Let me ask you a question first,” he replied.
English Standard VersionHe answered them, “I also will ask you a question. Now tell me,
Berean Standard Bible“I will also ask you a question,” Jesus replied. “Tell Me:
Berean Literal BibleAnd answering, He said to them, "I also will ask you one thing, and you tell Me:
King James BibleAnd he answered and said unto them, I will also ask you one thing; and answer me:
New King James VersionBut He answered and said to them, “I also will ask you one thing, and answer Me:
New American Standard BibleBut He replied to them, “I will also ask you a question, and you tell Me:
NASB 1995Jesus answered and said to them, “I will also ask you a question, and you tell Me:
NASB 1977And He answered and said to them, “I shall also ask you a question, and you tell Me:
Legacy Standard BibleAnd Jesus answered and said to them, “I will also ask you a question, and you tell Me:
Amplified BibleJesus replied, “I will also ask you a question. You tell Me:
Christian Standard BibleHe answered them, “I will also ask you a question. Tell me,
Holman Christian Standard BibleHe answered them, “I will also ask you a question. Tell Me,
American Standard VersionAnd he answered and said unto them, I also will ask you a question; and tell me:
Contemporary English VersionJesus replied, "I want to ask you a question.
English Revised VersionAnd he answered and said unto them, I also will ask you a question; and tell me:
GOD'S WORD® TranslationJesus answered them, "I, too, have a question for you. Tell me,
Good News TranslationJesus answered them, "Now let me ask you a question. Tell me,
International Standard VersionHe answered them, "I, too, will ask you a question. Tell me:
NET BibleHe answered them, "I will also ask you a question, and you tell me:
New Heart English BibleHe answered them, "I also will ask you one question. Tell me:
Webster's Bible TranslationAnd he answered and said to them, I will also ask you one thing; and answer me:
Weymouth New Testament"I also will put a question to you, "He said; Majority Text Translations Majority Standard Bible“I will also ask you one question,” Jesus replied. “Tell Me:
World English BibleHe answered them, “I also will ask you one question. Tell me: Literal Translations Literal Standard VersionAnd He answering said to them, “I will question you—I also—one thing, and tell Me:
Berean Literal BibleAnd answering, He said to them, "I also will ask you one thing, and you tell Me:
Young's Literal Translation And he answering said unto them, 'I will question you -- I also -- one thing, and tell me:
Smith's Literal TranslationAnd having answered he said to them, I will ask you one word; and tell me: Catholic Translations Douay-Rheims BibleAnd Jesus answering, said to them: I will also ask you one thing. Answer me:
Catholic Public Domain VersionAnd in response, Jesus said to them: “I will also question you about one word. Respond to me:
New American BibleHe said to them in reply, “I shall ask you a question. Tell me,
New Revised Standard VersionHe answered them, “I will also ask you a question, and you tell me: Translations from Aramaic Lamsa BibleJesus answered and said to them, I will also ask you a word, and you tell me;
Aramaic Bible in Plain EnglishYeshua answered and he said to them, “I shall also ask you a question and you answer me.” NT Translations Anderson New TestamentAnd he answered and said to them: I also will ask you one thing, and do you answer me.
Godbey New TestamentAnd responding He said to them, I will ask you one word; and you tell me:
Haweis New Testament
Then he answering said to them, I also will ask you one question; and resolve me:
Mace New Testament
Jesus answer'd, I will ask you one question;
Weymouth New Testament
"I also will put a question to you, "He said;
Worrell New Testament
And, answering, He said to them,"I, too, will ask you a question; and tell Me:
Worsley New Testament
And He answered and said unto them,I will also ask you one question, tell me,
Additional Translations ... Audio Bible
Context Jesus' Authority Challenged… 2“Tell us,” they said, “by what authority are You doing these things, and who gave You this authority?” 3“I will also askyoua question,”Jesus replied.“TellMe:4John’s baptism—was it from heaven, or from men?”…
Cross References Matthew 21:24-27“I will also ask you one question,” Jesus replied, “and if you answer Me, I will tell you by what authority I am doing these things. / What was the source of John’s baptism? Was it from heaven or from men?” They deliberated among themselves and said, “If we say, ‘From heaven,’ He will ask, ‘Why then did you not believe him?’ / But if we say, ‘From men,’ we are afraid of the people, for they all regard John as a prophet.” ...
Mark 11:29-33“I will ask you one question,” Jesus replied, “and if you answer Me, I will tell you by what authority I am doing these things. / John’s baptism—was it from heaven or from men? Answer Me!” / They deliberated among themselves what they should answer: “If we say, ‘From heaven,’ He will ask, ‘Why then did you not believe him?’ ...
John 8:7-8When they continued to question Him, He straightened up and said to them, “Let him who is without sin among you be the first to cast a stone at her.” / And again He bent down and wrote on the ground.
Matthew 22:15-22Then the Pharisees went out and conspired to trap Jesus in His words. / They sent their disciples to Him along with the Herodians. “Teacher,” they said, “we know that You are honest and that You teach the way of God in accordance with the truth. You seek favor from no one, because You pay no attention to external appearance. / So tell us what You think: Is it lawful to pay taxes to Caesar or not?” ...
Mark 12:13-17Later, they sent some of the Pharisees and Herodians to catch Jesus in His words. / “Teacher,” they said, “we know that You are honest and seek favor from no one. Indeed, You are impartial and teach the way of God in accordance with the truth. Is it lawful to pay taxes to Caesar or not? Should we pay them or not?” / But Jesus saw through their hypocrisy and said, “Why are you testing Me? Bring Me a denarius to inspect.” ...
John 2:18-19On account of this, the Jews demanded, “What sign can You show us to prove Your authority to do these things?” / Jesus answered, “Destroy this temple, and in three days I will raise it up again.”
Matthew 12:38-40Then some of the scribes and Pharisees said to Him, “Teacher, we want to see a sign from You.” / Jesus replied, “A wicked and adulterous generation demands a sign, but none will be given it except the sign of the prophet Jonah. / For as Jonah was three days and three nights in the belly of the great fish, so the Son of Man will be three days and three nights in the heart of the earth.
Mark 8:11-12Then the Pharisees came and began to argue with Jesus, testing Him by demanding from Him a sign from heaven. / Jesus sighed deeply in His spirit and said, “Why does this generation demand a sign? Truly I tell you, no sign will be given to this generation.”
John 10:24-25So the Jews gathered around Him and demanded, “How long will You keep us in suspense? If You are the Christ, tell us plainly.” / “I already told you,” Jesus replied, “but you did not believe. The works I do in My Father’s name testify on My behalf.
Matthew 16:1-4Then the Pharisees and Sadducees came and tested Jesus by asking Him to show them a sign from heaven. / But He replied, “When evening comes, you say, ‘The weather will be fair, for the sky is red,’ / and in the morning, ‘Today it will be stormy, for the sky is red and overcast.’ You know how to interpret the appearance of the sky, but not the signs of the times. ...
Exodus 4:1-5Then Moses answered, “What if they do not believe me or listen to my voice? For they may say, ‘The LORD has not appeared to you.’” / And the LORD asked him, “What is that in your hand?” “A staff,” he replied. / “Throw it on the ground,” said the LORD. So Moses threw it on the ground, and it became a snake, and he ran from it. ...
1 Kings 18:21Then Elijah approached all the people and said, “How long will you waver between two opinions? If the LORD is God, follow Him. But if Baal is God, follow him.” But the people did not answer a word.
Isaiah 1:18“Come now, let us reason together,” says the LORD. “Though your sins are like scarlet, they will be as white as snow; though they are as red as crimson, they will become like wool.
Jeremiah 42:2-4Jeremiah the prophet and said, “May our petition come before you; pray to the LORD your God on behalf of this entire remnant. For few of us remain of the many, as you can see with your own eyes. / Pray that the LORD your God will tell us the way we should walk and the thing we should do.” / “I have heard you,” replied Jeremiah the prophet. “I will surely pray to the LORD your God as you request, and I will tell you everything that the LORD answers. I will not withhold a word from you.”
Ezekiel 14:1-4Then some of the elders of Israel came and sat down before me. / And the word of the LORD came to me, saying, / “Son of man, these men have set up idols in their hearts and put wicked stumbling blocks before their faces. Should I consult with them in any way? ...
Treasury of Scripture And he answered and said to them, I will also ask you one thing; and answer me: I will. Luke 22:68 And if I also askyou, ye will not answer me, nor letme go. Matthew 15:2,3 Why do thy disciples transgress the tradition of the elders? for they wash not their hands when they eat bread… Colossians 4:6 Let your speechbe alway with grace, seasoned with salt, that ye may know how ye ought to answer every man. Jump to Previous JesusQuestionJump to Next JesusQuestionLuke 20 1.Jesus confirms his authority by a question of John's baptism.9.The parable of the vineyard.19.Of giving tribute to Caesar.27.He instructs the Sadducees, who denied the resurrection.41.How Jesus is the Son of David.45.He warns his disciples to beware of the scribes.I will also ask you a question,In this passage, Jesus employs a rabbinic teaching method known as counter-questioning, which was common in Jewish scholarly debate. This approach not only demonstrates His wisdom but also challenges the authority of the religious leaders questioning Him. By asking a question in return, Jesus places the burden of proof back on His challengers, highlighting their inability to answer truthfully without incriminating themselves. This method is seen elsewhere in the Gospels, such as in Matthew 21:24-25, where Jesus uses a similar tactic. Jesus replied.
The context here is crucial. Jesus is in the temple courts, a place of teaching and authority, and He is being confronted by the chief priests, scribes, and elders. His response is not just a simple answer but a strategic move to reveal the hearts and intentions of His opponents. This setting underscores the tension between Jesus and the religious authorities, who feel threatened by His growing influence and His challenge to their interpretations of the Law. Tell Me:
This phrase indicates Jesus' authoritative position in the dialogue. By commanding them to "Tell Me," He asserts His role as a teacher and prophet, one who speaks with divine authority. This is consistent with His identity throughout the Gospels, where He often speaks with authority that astonishes the crowds (Matthew 7:28-29). The demand for an answer also serves to expose the hypocrisy and fear of the religious leaders, who are more concerned with public opinion than with truth. Persons / Places / Events 1. JesusThe central figure in this passage, Jesus is responding to the religious leaders who are questioning His authority. His response is strategic, aiming to reveal their intentions and challenge their understanding. 2. Religious LeadersThese include the chief priests, scribes, and elders who are questioning Jesus. They are trying to trap Him with their questions, seeking to undermine His authority and influence among the people. 3. JerusalemThe setting of this encounter, Jerusalem is the religious and cultural center of Jewish life, where Jesus is teaching in the temple courts. 4. The TempleThe location where this dialogue takes place, the temple is a symbol of Jewish faith and authority, making it a significant backdrop for this confrontation. 5. The QuestionJesus' method of responding with a question is a common rabbinic technique used to provoke thought and reveal deeper truths. Teaching Points The Wisdom of JesusJesus demonstrates wisdom by responding to a challenge with a question. This teaches us the importance of discernment and strategic thinking in difficult situations. Authority and TruthJesus' authority is rooted in truth, not in human approval. We are reminded to seek God's truth and authority in our lives rather than relying on human validation. Engaging with OppositionJesus shows us how to engage with those who oppose us. Instead of direct confrontation, He uses questions to reveal their motives and lead them to self-reflection. The Power of QuestionsQuestions can be powerful tools for teaching and revealing truth. We should use them wisely in our conversations and teaching. Bible Study Questions and Answers 1.What is the meaning of Luke 20:3?
2.How does Luke 20:3 demonstrate Jesus' wisdom in responding to challenges?
3.What can we learn from Jesus' question about authority in Luke 20:3?
4.How does Luke 20:3 connect to Proverbs 26:4-5 on answering fools?
5.How can we apply Jesus' approach in Luke 20:3 to modern-day conflicts?
6.What does Jesus' response in Luke 20:3 teach about discernment in conversations?
7.What authority does Jesus question in Luke 20:3, and why is it significant?
8.How does Luke 20:3 challenge religious leaders' understanding of authority?
9.What historical context influences the dialogue in Luke 20:3?
10.What are the top 10 Lessons from Luke 20?
11.Why do different Gospel accounts have conflicting reports on who was at Jesus' tomb?
12.Can a Christian's name be removed from the Book of Life?
13.What is pre-evangelism?
14.Were the women informed about Jesus' body's fate? Yes, by a young man/angels (Mark 16:5; Luke 24:4; Matthew 28:7). No, Mary found the tomb empty and was confused (John 20:2).What Does Luke 20:3 Mean I will also ask you a question• “Also” shows Jesus meeting His challengers on their own ground; they come with a question, He responds with one (Matthew 21:24;Mark 11:29). • Questioning was a standard rabbinic method; Jesus employs it skillfully to expose motives, just as God questioned Adam (“Where are you?”Genesis 3:9) and Job (“Now gird up your loins like a man, and I will ask you, and you instruct Me”Job 38:3). • By inviting discussion, Jesus keeps the conversation public and transparent, thwarting any hidden agenda (Luke 20:6–7). • The question that will follow—about John’s baptism—forces the leaders to face truth they have avoided. Jesus’ questions are never evasive; they are diagnostic, pressing the conscience (Hebrews 4:12).
Jesus replied• Jesus does not react defensively; He “replied,” demonstrating composure and authority (Luke 4:32, 36). • His reply fulfillsProverbs 15:1—“A gentle answer turns away wrath”—yet it is firm and incisive (John 7:46). • By replying, He models1 Peter 3:15 before it was written: “Always be prepared to give a defense…yet with gentleness and respect.” • The leaders aim to trap Him, but every reply of Jesus unveils their hearts while confirming His own authority (Luke 19:47–48).
Tell Me• “Tell Me” obligates the questioners to declare their position; neutrality is no longer possible (Luke 20:5). • Jesus often called for personal response: “What do you think?” (Matthew 21:28); “How do you read it?” (Luke 10:26). • The phrase signals accountability: “So then, each of us will give an account of himself to God” (Romans 14:12). • It also extends grace—an open invitation to speak honestly, reminiscent ofIsaiah 1:18, “Come now, let us reason together,” and ofJohn 18:21 where Jesus told Annas, “Question those who heard Me; surely they know what I said.” • Though the leaders will evade, the command “Tell Me” underscores that truth is not negotiable; it must be confessed (Philippians 2:11).
summaryInLuke 20:3 Jesus meets the religious leaders’ challenge by returning a question, replying with calm authority, and demanding an honest answer. His strategy exposes motives, upholds truth, and keeps the discussion in the open. The verse shows that Christ’s inquiries are designed to lead hearts to accountability before God, demonstrating both His wisdom and His sovereign authority over every conversation. Verses 3-6. - And he answered and said unto them, I will also ask you one thing; and answer me: The baptism of John, was it from heaven, or of men! And they reasoned with themselves saying, If we shall say,From heaven; he will say, Why then believed ye him not? But and if we say, Of men; all the people will stone us: for they be persuaded that John was a prophet. The reply of Jesus was one of strange wisdom. He - Jesus - as was well known, had been introduced to the people by this very John. If the Sanhedrin acknowledged John the Baptist as a divinely accredited messenger, then surely they could not question the claims of one borne special witness to by him, brought forward and introduced to public notice by him! If, on the other hand, the Sanhedrin refused to acknowledge the authority of John as a Heaven-sent messenger, which would have been the course they would have preferred, then the popularity and influence of the Sanhedrin would have been sorely imperilled, for the people generally held firmly that John the Baptist was really a prophet of the Lord. They even feared - as we read, "All the people will stone us" - personal violence on the part of the people whose favour they so zealously courted.
Parallel Commentaries ...
Greek “I will also askἘρωτήσω(Erōtēsō)Verb - Future Indicative Active - 1st Person Singular
Strong's 2065:Apparently from ereo; to interrogate; by implication, to request.youὑμᾶς(hymas)Personal / Possessive Pronoun - Accusative 2nd Person Plural
Strong's 4771:You. The person pronoun of the second person singular; thou.a question,”λόγον(logon)Noun - Accusative Masculine Singular
Strong's 3056:From lego; something said; by implication, a topic, also reasoning or motive; by extension, a computation; specially, the Divine Expression.[Jesus] replied.εἶπεν(eipen)Verb - Aorist Indicative Active - 3rd Person Singular
Strong's 2036:Answer, bid, bring word, command. A primary verb; to speak or say.“Tellεἴπατέ(eipate)Verb - Aorist Imperative Active - 2nd Person Plural
Strong's 2036:Answer, bid, bring word, command. A primary verb; to speak or say.Me:μοι(moi)Personal / Possessive Pronoun - Dative 1st Person Singular
Strong's 1473:I, the first-person pronoun. A primary pronoun of the first person I.
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NT Gospels: Luke 20:3 He answered them I also will ask (Luke Lu Lk) |
