The Gospel of Luke
The Gospel of Luke has been called the most beautiful book ever written. Luke's writing shows him to be a highly educated man, one who wrote from a Greek background and viewpoint. He wrote especially with Gentiles in mind, for he explained Jewish customs and traced the genealogy of Jesus back to Adam.
The author's name does not appear in the book, but much unmistakable evidence points to Luke. The Gospel is a caompanion volume to the book of Acts, and the language and structure of these books indicate that both were written by the same person. Luke was probably a Gentile by birth, well educated in Greek culture, a physician by profession and a companion of Paul at various times. The book was probably written between A.D. 59 and 63.
Luke tells us in the first four verses of his book that he wrote this Gospel to give the true and complete story of Jesus' life ("so that you may know the exact truth... (1:4). He wrote the fullest and most orderly story of His life. One of Luke's interests in writing this book was to show that Jesus loved all kinds of people. In the parables especially, he wrote about the poor and oppressed. The theme of joy is felt throughout the book, as Jesus' coming brought joy as well as hope and salvation to a sinful world.
In chapters 1-4, Luke writes a very detailed account of the birth of Jesus, a common Christmas story, yet always fascinating. Next, John the Baptist’s preparation work for the coming Messiah then Jesus’ baptism in the Jordan
River, transition into Jesus’ beginning ministry in Galilee.
River, transition into Jesus’ beginning ministry in Galilee.
Chapters 5-21 consist of the ministry of Jesus. As Jesus travels, He teaches,
preaches, heals the sick, and brings hope to the desperate and discouraged. He was also seeking those who were obedient and faithful such as the Roman Centurion who sincerely pleads with Jesus to heal his servant from a far distance, “just say the word, and my servant will be healed” (7:7). Jesus met many religious leaders who relentlessly opposed Him and constantly tried to trick and to kill Him.
preaches, heals the sick, and brings hope to the desperate and discouraged. He was also seeking those who were obedient and faithful such as the Roman Centurion who sincerely pleads with Jesus to heal his servant from a far distance, “just say the word, and my servant will be healed” (7:7). Jesus met many religious leaders who relentlessly opposed Him and constantly tried to trick and to kill Him.
In chapters 22-24, one of His own betrays Jesus. He was unlawfully convicted, by
a dishonest and hateful court and sentenced to an excruciating death. However,
death could not hold Him, and after three days, He resurrected and arose from the grave as He had miraculously raised others during His ministry.
continue to John...
a dishonest and hateful court and sentenced to an excruciating death. However,
death could not hold Him, and after three days, He resurrected and arose from the grave as He had miraculously raised others during His ministry.
continue to John...