Luke 1-2

I will focus on the intro: Luke 1:1-4.

1:1 Since many have undertaken to set down an orderly account of the events that have been fulfilled among us, 2 just as they were handed on to us by those who from the beginning were eyewitnesses and servants of the word, 3 I too decided, after investigating everything carefully from the very first, F1 to write an orderly account for you, most excellent Theophilus, 4 so that you may know the truth concerning the things about which you have been instructed.

Wow, this is the last of the gospels that we will be studying. So the storytelling is pretty similar among the gospels with different variations/amount of detail...each have their own flavor. But Luke is an interesting author...seems pretty straightforward, organized, and detail oriented. The main thing I knew about Luke before I started reading was that he was a physician. But what is Luke's background and what compelled him to write another account of Jesus? And who is the recipient Theophilus?

Background on Luke:
from the intro before the readings (NIV study bible), I gathered that Luke is
-most likely a Gentile
-well versed in Greek culture
-loyal friend to Paul
-of course bright cause he became a physician

To try to break it down by verse:
verse 1: Luke humbly acknowledges the other authors of the gospels

verse 2: the research to write these accounts were "handed down" by tradition of retelling the stories from first hand eyewitnesses who were actually there in Jesus' time.

verse 3: so Luke felt led to do likewise in providing written account after he had done extensive research and double checking all his sources...his storytelling seems quite thorough!

Luke uses the term "most excellent" to describe Theophilus.
Who is Theophilus?
-His name literally means "one who loves God"
-the term "most excellent" suggests of high status/ranking
-so must be a very important person!

verse 4: so what compelled Luke?
my bible says..."so that you may know the certainty of the things you have been taught"...obviously of the truth/Jesus

so with Luke's account, although it may have similarities with the other gospels, it further re enforces or gives credibility to the life and ministry of Jesus. It helps us appreciate Luke's style or way of describing events which may differ amongst the gospels. It reminds us to not forget our foundation...that as with Theophilus, Luke is speaking to us as well that we may be certain/sure of what we have been taught, thus strengthening and confirming our faith in Christ once again as we go through this gospel.

Joy