Luke is a carefully researched and orderly account of the life, ministry, death, and resurrection of Jesus. Written to provide certainty about the gospel, Luke highlights Jesus’ compassion for the marginalized, His emphasis on prayer, the work of the Holy Spirit, and the universal reach of God’s salvation. Luke presents Jesus as the perfect Son of Man who came to seek and save the lost.
Background
Author: Luke
Audience: Primarily Gentile believers, addressed to Theophilus
Date: AD 60–62
Location Written: Likely Caesarea or Rome
Context: Luke was a physician, historian, and companion of Paul. He wrote this Gospel after thoroughly investigating eyewitness accounts to give believers confidence in the truth about Jesus. Luke emphasizes mercy, justice, humility, and the inclusion of outsiders such as women, Gentiles, the poor, and social outcasts. It forms the first volume of a two-part work completed by the book of Acts.
Characters
- Jesus — Son of Man who brings salvation to all people
- Luke — author and careful historian documenting eyewitness testimony
- Theophilus — recipient seeking certainty about the gospel
- Mary — mother of Jesus highlighted for faith and obedience
- John the Baptist — prophetic forerunner preparing the way
- Disciples — followers learning from Jesus and witnessing His works
- Religious Leaders — opponents who challenge Jesus’ authority
- Zacchaeus, Mary Magdalene, and other individuals — lives transformed by Jesus’ compassion
Major Events
- Birth announcements of John the Baptist and Jesus (Chapters 1–2)
- Jesus’ baptism, genealogy, and temptation (Chapters 3–4)
- Early ministry, miracles, and calling of disciples (Chapters 4–6)
- Sermon on the Plain and parables (Chapter 6)
- Healings, resurrection miracles, and demonstrations of authority (Chapters 7–9)
- Transfiguration of Jesus (Chapter 9)
- Teachings on discipleship and parables of mercy and grace (Chapters 10–15)
- The prodigal son, rich man and Lazarus, and other parables (Chapters 15–16)
- Teachings on the kingdom and the cost of following Jesus (Chapters 17–19)
- Triumphal entry and temple confrontations (Chapters 19–21)
- The Last Supper, betrayal, trial, and crucifixion (Chapters 22–23)
- Resurrection of Jesus and appearance on the Emmaus road (Chapter 24)
Application & Life Lessons
- Jesus brings salvation to all people regardless of background
- God values the poor, the overlooked, and the outcast
- Prayer is essential for strength, clarity, and obedience
- Following Jesus requires humility and surrender
- God’s mercy is abundant and transforms repentant hearts
- Faith grows through hearing and responding to God’s word
- Hospitality, generosity, and compassion reflect God’s heart
- Christ’s resurrection brings hope, joy, and purpose
Bible Study Videos
Video by the Bible Project providing an overview of Luke 1-9
Video by the Bible Project providing an overview of 9-24
Sermons & Teachings
Sermon by Skip Heitzig offering a brief overview of Matthew, Mark, & Luke
Podcasts
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Articles
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Bible Reading Plans
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Books
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Disclosures & Notices
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