Bible Dictionary
Tiberius Caesar
Tiberius Caesar, or Tiberius Claudius Nero, was the Roman emperor during the ministry and crucifixion of Jesus. John the Baptist began preaching in the fifteenth year of Tiberius’s reign.
Definition
Tiberius Caesar is the imperial title of Tiberius Claudius Nero, the Roman emperor who succeeded Augustus. He reigned from A.D. 14 until A.D. 37.
Biblical Usage
Luke dates the beginning of John the Baptist’s ministry to the fifteenth year of Tiberius’s reign. Jesus taught and suffered under his authority, and the Gospels refer to him also simply as Caesar.
Historical Background
Tiberius was the stepson of Augustus. The supplied material describes him as a ruler whose reign included both administrative ability and a reputation for cruelty and vice.
Scripture References
Related Figures
Historical Bible Dictionaries
Easton's Bible Dictionary
I.e., as known in Roman history, Tiberius Claudius Nero, only mentioned in Luke 3:1. He was the stepson of Augustus, whom he succeeded on the throne, A.D. 14. He was noted for his vicious and infamous life. In the fifteenth year of his reign John the Baptist entered on his public ministry, and under him also our Lord taught and suffered. He died A.D. 37. He is frequently referred to simply as “Caesar” (Matt. 22:17, 21; Mark 12:14, 16, 17; Luke 20:22, 24, 25; 23:2; John 19:12, 15).