Introduction to Luke

Name

The title “Luke” comes from the name of the book’s author.

Author

Although Luke is technically anonymous, there is significant internal as well as external evidence that corroborates Luke’s authorship. Most telling is the sections in Acts where Luke refers to himself saying “we.”

Genre

Gospel

Literary Form

Narrative.

Time Frame

It is impossible to date the writing of the Gospel of Luke with certainty. A date of A.D. 58-60 is likely:

• Luke also wrote Acts,
• Acts was written while Paul was still alive and in prison,
• Acts ends about A.D. 63.
• Luke was written before Acts.

Emphasis

The emphasis of the Gospel of Luke is on strengthening believers’ faith and challenging the misconceptions of unbelievers.

Luke emphasizes the Gospel’s universal message that included the poor, sinners, and other outcasts from society. He emphasizes history, forgiveness, prayer, and the individual’s role in repentance and salvation.

Luke’s gospel is directed primarily to Gentiles. He frequently explains Jewish locations and traditions, which would be unnecessary if his audience were primarily Jewish. He also uses Greek words more familiar to Gentiles than one would use if the audience were Jewish.

 Outline

1. Prologue (1:1-1:4)
2. The Birth of John and Jesus (1:5-2:20)
3. Jesus’ childhood and early adulthood (2:21-2:52 )
4. John the Baptist’s ministry (3:1-3:22)
5. Genealogy of Jesus and testing by the Devil (3:23-4:13)
6. Jesus’  ministry in Galilee (4:14-9:50)
7. Jesus’ ministry Judea and Perea (9:51-19:44)
8. Jesus’ betrayal, suffering and death in Jerusalem (19:45-23:56)
9. Jesus’ resurrection and ascension (24:1-24:53)