Introduction to the Gospel of Luke

Who was Luke?

See Colossians 4:14;  2 Timothy 4:9-11; Philemon 24

an educated Gentile; a physician

a friend of Paul, and a companion on some of his travels

an enthusiastic follower of Christ

His 2 writings comprise more than 25% of the NT

They are both dedicated to ‘Theophilus’

How did Luke go about writing his Gospel?

See Luke 1:1-4

He set out to build on the original eyewitness accounts, vv1, 2

and to provide a carefully researched, orderly account, v3

What was Luke’s aim?

See Luke 1:5

‘so that you may know the certainty of the things you have been taught.’

What are the characteristics of Luke’s Gospel?

Historical awareness

Artistic flair

Compassionate concern

World-wide interest

Joyful praise

Think of what we would be missing if Luke’s Gospel was missing from our Bible!

What is the structure of Luke’s Gospel?

1.  Preface (1:1-4).

2.  Introduction: the coming of Jesus (1:1-2:52)

3.  Preparation for Ministry: the anointing of Jesus (3:1-4:13)

4.  Ministry in Galilee: the revelation of Jesus (4:14-9:50)

5.  Journey to Jerusalem: the rejection of Jesus (9:51-19:44)

6.  In Jerusalem: the death and resurrection of Jesus (19:45-24:53)