Luke 3:2

Annas, etc.] RV 'in the high priesthood of Annas and Caiaphas.' A peculiar expression to indicate a peculiar state of things. Annas held office from 7-14 a.d., when he was deposed by Pilate's predecessor, Valerius Gratus. But inasmuch as his successors were either his relations, or entirely devoted to his interests, he retained supreme power, and was probably regarded by orthodox Jews as the rightful high priest. Ex-high priests retained their title, and Annas is called high priest again, John 18:19; Acts 4:6 : see on John 18:13 and Matthew 21:12. Caiaphas] see on Matthew 26:3; John 11:49; John 18:13. The word of God came] John received a definite call to his ministry, like Isaiah (Isaiah 6) and Jeremiah (Jeremiah 1). 4. See on Isaiah 40:3.

5, 6. (Peculiar to Lk.) 'Spiritually interpreted, the valleys would represent unbelief and all sins of omission which must be filled up by the diligent adding of grace to grace (2 Peter 1:5). The mountains would mean pride and haughtiness and self-will and obstinacy, which must be humbled and cast down. The crooked places would signify, all sorts of deceit and guile and hypocrisy and untruthfulness. The rough ways would picture anger, strife, envy, hatred, malice, and all uncharitableness.'

10-14. See on Matthew 3.