He answereth and saith unto them, He that hath two coats, let him impart to him that hath none; and he that hath meat, let him do likewise.
LUKE 3:11KJVWhat does Luke 3:11 mean?
Luke 3:11 describes John the Baptist telling people that if someone has two coats, they should share with someone who has none, and if someone has food, they should do the same. The verse calls for practical generosity, urging people to meet the basic needs of others with what they have.
John the Baptist is speaking to crowds who have come to hear him and are asking what they should do to live rightly. He answers by giving a clear, everyday example: sharing clothing and food. This teaching sets a simple, concrete standard for how people can show genuine care for others in their community.
The Greek behind Luke 3:11
- "Impart" (μεταδιδότω, metadidotō) is the Greek word used for "let him impart." It means to share or give a part of what one has. The word suggests not just giving away leftovers, but actively dividing what you own to help someone else.
- "Meat" (βρῶμα, brōma) in this context refers broadly to food, not just meat as in animal flesh. This clarifies that John is talking about all kinds of food, not just one type.
- "Do likewise" (ὁμοίως ποιεῖν, homoiōs poiein) means to act in the same way. John is making it clear that the principle of sharing applies to both clothing and food—whatever basic need is in question.
Why Luke 3:11 matters
- Luke 3:11 clears up the idea that repentance is just about feelings or rituals; John ties it directly to concrete actions that help others.
- The verse shows that John’s message is practical and accessible—he does not ask for heroic deeds, but for simple generosity anyone can practice.
- This teaching connects to the wider theme in Luke of caring for the poor and vulnerable, which is a major focus throughout the Gospel.