1 Inasmuch as many have undertaken to compile a narrative of the things that have been accomplished among us, 2 just as those who from the beginning were eyewitnesses and ministers of the word have delivered them to us, 3 it seemed good to me also, having followed all things closely for some time past, to write an orderly account for you, most excellent Theophilus, 4 that you may have certainty concerning the things you have been taught.
(ESV)
STOP! Think a little 🤔 What is God saying to you?
- What is the writer saying?
- How do I apply this to my life?
The gospel of Luke and the book of Acts are both widely agreed to have been written by Luke, the doctor and co-labourer of Paul the apostle (Col 4:14). While He did not see Jesus personally, he was able to interview eyewitnesses (Luke 1:2)
Luke wrote to Theophilus who was most likely a Roman official because he is addressed as “most excellent”. We don’t know much more about who Theophilus was. He was a believer and Luke wrote his letters to provide him with a greater certainty about what he had already been taught (and believed).
God expects us to trust Him. That doesn’t mean we trust in something of little to no substance. God has given us His word but that word can be verified. We can look at the eyewitness testimonies that Luke gathered along with the other eyewitness testimonies of the gospels and New Testament. We can also look at other historical information and archeological findings which are all able to confirm what we believe. Let us come to God like the father who brought his son to Jesus and said, “I believe; help my unbelief” (Mark 9:24). No matter where you are in your Christian walk, I trust that this study in the gospel of Luke will increase your certainty in what you have been taught.
Major Stories of the Bible Reading Plan
Deborah the Female Judge: Deborah the Female Judge