The writers of the Gospels were as interesting as the historical events and people they wrote about. Their personalities, endurance and work in the faith are visible in their writings. We know little about Luke but the few facts we have trend on the impressive. We know he was a physician. He was the only Gentile, “Non-Jew” that in fact wrote two of the New Testament Books. Paul makes this fact about Luke clear in Colossians 4:1, “Luke not being one of the circumcision”. While Luke does not name himself in either of the books, Paul mentions him in three epistles. One interesting fact is that both Acts and Luke are addressed to the same person, Theophilus and the reason for the books Luke writes in Luke 1:4. We do not know who Theophilus was but we know he indeed existed. The popular theory is that because of the title used by Luke in writing to him is “Most Excellent Theophilus”…he most likely held a position of influence in the local government and was knowledgeable about the basics of the Christian doctrine. Someone had exposed him to it and it is possible he had some questions about the doctrine, however the bible does not tell us who Theophilus was. Luke was a close friend of Paul and frequently traveled with him, Paul referred to him as “the beloved physician” (Colossians 4:14). Luke was a man of facts… He was familiar with sailing and took note of various geographical details. These two facts are interesting because to keep up with Paul and his life and mission would require such ability and diligence. He would have also been able to meet, listen to and talk with some of the most important people of the Early Church. Luke was a well-educated, observant, and careful writer. Last thing…His style of writing was such that it resonated with the customs and language of the people of that day.

Luke writes about those things that are worthy of belief, the great events of the ministry of Jesus and the work of the early church. Both provide hope. There is the extra added bonus that these events have been recorded by those who were from the beginning eye-witnesses and ministers of the word, and who recorded them through Divine Inspiration.  

The book of Luke has often been referred to as  “A Lovely Book” Each Gospel has a sign…for Luke it is the calf.  In biblical times the calf was a symbol of sacrifice, Luke most likely equated the ministry of Jesus as the sacrifice to all the world. It is also the book in which all barriers between Jew and Gentile are broken down. After all is said and done…it is a book of credible information that bolsters the foundation of our faith. I hope you have enjoyed our little side trip for a quick look at Luke…

Luke 1:1-4

1 Inasmuch as many have taken in hand to set in order a narrative of those things which have been fulfilled among us, 2 just as those who from the beginning were eyewitnesses and ministers of the word delivered them to us, 3 it seemed good to me also, having had perfect understanding of all things from the very first, to write to you an orderly account, most excellent Theophilus, 4 that you may know the certainty of those things in which you were instructed.

Life is Good 

jk