Written By Lesallan – August 21, 2023
The Book of Luke (ESV): Book Survey
Version: ESV
GENERAL MATERIALS
The Book of Luke (ESV) is a remarkable account of the life and teachings of Jesus Christ. It was written by Luke, a physician, and the companion of the apostle Paul, who portrays Jesus as the Son of God who came to save sinners and establish God’s kingdom on earth. What sets Luke’s Gospel apart is its emphasis on Jesus’ compassion for the poor, the outcast, and the marginalized. Luke also highlights Jesus’ teachings on prayer and forgiveness and his interactions with women. The Book’s secondary themes of repentance, faith, discipleship, and the Holy Spirit are all woven together to create a truly inspiring and timeless account of one of the most influential figures in human history.
The Book of Luke (ESV) is primarily a historical account of Jesus’ life, teachings, death, resurrection, and Ascension of Jesus Christ. The Book of Luke (ESV) is also biographical in nature, with its primary emphasis being the life and teachings of Jesus. The Book is not quite organized chronologically, with events presented in the order in which they occurred, as some events are sometimes arranged thematically. The Book of Luke (ESV) is traditionally thought to have been written by Luke, a physician and travel companion of apostle Paul. It is believed that Luke also wrote its sequel, the Book of Acts.
In addition to its historical and biographical emphasis, the Book of Luke (ESV) has several secondary emphases. One of these secondary emphases is its ideological emphasis on Jesus’ teachings and the ideas He presented. Luke’s characteristics and significant themes include and emphasize that salvation is not just for the Jews but for all people, including Gentiles. The Holy Spirit plays a prominent role in Luke’s Gospel, beginning with the announcement that the Spirit has ordained him to do the things he does. Prayer also plays a prominent role in Luke’s Gospel, as Jesus is often shown praying and teaching His disciples to pray. The issues of wealth, poverty, and social injustice are shown as Jesus reaching out to those disregarded by society. The Book of Luke (ESV) beautifully portrays Jesus as the perfect human, offering Himself as the ultimate sacrifice for the redemption of humankind. Christianity is presented as the true fulfillment of God’s promises to Israel. Through Luke’s Gospel, we are reminded of the importance of praising God and the significance of Jesus as the perfect Savior. With an emphasis on parables, Luke’s Gospel invites us to reflect on the profound teachings of Jesus and His divine mission on earth.
The Book of Luke (ESV) also contains a geographical emphasis and information as it describes the places where Jesus traveled and taught. Jesus’ travels and teachings take place predominantly in Palestine, an area located at the eastern end of the Mediterranean Sea and bordered by Syria to the north, Jordan to the east, and Egypt to the southwest. At the time, Palestine was a province of the Roman Empire and was lived in by a varied population of Jews, Greeks, Romans, and other ethnic groups.
In summary, while the primary emphasis of the Book of Luke (ESV) is historical, it also has several secondary emphases, including ideological and geographical. The Book of Luke (ESV) should be regarded as having elements of all five categories biographical, historical, chronological, geographical, and ideological. These different emphases work together to provide a rich and detailed account of the life and teachings of Jesus Christ.
MAJOR STRUCTURAL RELATIONSHIPS
Strategically Employed Geographical Markers
One of the significant structural relationships in the Book of Luke (ESV) is the use of setting, particularly geography, to indicate literary divisions, as noted by Bauer and Traina (2014).
Luke primarily employs setting, particularly geography, to signal literary divisions, according to a source.
What are significant geographical markers found in the Book of Luke (ESV) that provide the Book’s major divisions?
The Book of Luke (ESV) begins with the preface (Luke 1:1-4, ESV). The birth of John the Baptist and the birth of Jesus are foretold, laying the groundwork for His ministry (Luke 1:5-4:13, ESV). Jesus begins His ministry in Galilee (Luke 4:14-9:50, ESV). Jesus’ ministry on the way to Jerusalem (Luke 9:51-19:27, ESV). Jesus’ entry and ministry in Jerusalem (Luke 19:28-24:53, ESV). These major divisions provide a framework for understanding the overall structure of the Book of Luke (ESV).
Grouping of Related Material into Thematic Sections
Luke groups together related parables, teachings, miracles, or events that share a common theme or topic, known as thematic sections.
In Luke 15 (ESV), Luke groups together three parables about lost things: the lost sheep, the lost coin, and the lost son. These parables illustrate the theme of God’s joy over repentant sinners. In Luke 18:1-30 (ESV), he groups four teachings about prayer, wealth, humility, and discipleship.
What do these themes in the Book of Luke (ESV) illustrate?
These thematic groupings and teachings illustrate the theme of entering into God’s Kingdom.
Parallelism or Contrast
Luke sometimes parallels or contrasts two or more scenes or characters with similarities or differences.
Luke alternates between scenes about John the Baptist and Jesus Christ in Luke 1-2 (ESV). This highlights their similarities as God’s chosen messengers and their differences as the forerunner and the Messiah. Luke contrasts two scenes about loving God and neighbor in Luke 10:25-42 (ESV): the parable of the good Samaritan and the story of Mary and Martha.
What do these scenes reveal to the reader?
These scenes reveal distinct aspects of what it means to love God and neighbor.
Inclusio Used as a Literary Device
Luke sometimes uses a literary device called inclusio, which means framing a section with similar words or ideas at the beginning and end.
In Luke 4:16-30 (ESV), Luke frames Jesus’ visit to Nazareth with the words “he went into the synagogue” (Luke 4:16, ESV) and “he went away from them” (Luke 4:30, ESV). This inclusio highlights Jesus’ rejection by his own people. In Luke 24:13-35 (ESV), Luke frames the story of the Emmaus road with the words “their eyes were kept from recognizing him” (Luke 24:16, ESV) and “their eyes were opened” (Luke 24:31, ESV).
What does Luke’s use of inclusio highlight for the reader?
Luke’s use of this literary device, “inclusio,” highlights Jesus’ revelation of himself after his resurrection.
OUTLINE
I. Introduction (Luke 1:1-4, ESV).
A. The Purpose of Luke’s Gospel (Luke 1:4, ESV).
B. The Method of Luke’s Gospel (Luke 1:1-3, ESV).
II. The Birth and Childhood of Jesus (Luke 1:5-2:52, ESV).
A. The Births of John the Baptist and Jesus (Luke 1:57-66; Luke 2:1-7, ESV).
B. The Childhood of John the Baptist and Jesus (Luke 2:8-52, ESV).
III. The Preparation for Jesus’ Ministry (Luke 3:1-4:13, ESV).
A. The Ministry of John the Baptist (Luke 3:1-22, ESV).
B. The Baptism and Temptation of Jesus (Luke 3:21-22; Luke 4:1-13, ESV).
IV. The Ministry of Jesus in Galilee (Luke 4:14-9:50, ESV).
A. The Early Ministry of Jesus in Galilee (Luke 4:14-30, ESV).
B. The Later Ministry of Jesus in Galilee (Luke 8:2-3, ESV).
V. The Journey to Jerusalem (Luke 9:51-19:27, ESV).
A. The Journey Begins (Luke 9:51, ESV).
B. Teachings on the Way to Jerusalem (Luke 9:52-19:40, ESV).
C. The Entry into Jerusalem (Luke 19:28-44, ESV).
VI. The Ministry of Jesus in Jerusalem (Luke 19:28-21:38, ESV).
A. The Cleansing of the Temple (Luke 19:45-48, ESV).
B. Teachings in the Temple (Luke 19:45-22:53, ESV).
VII. The Arrest, Trial, and Crucifixion of Jesus (Luke 22:1-23:56, ESV).
A. The Arrest and Trial of Jesus (Luke 22:54-23:25, ESV).
B. The Crucifixion and Burial of Jesus (Luke 23:26-23:56, ESV).
VIII. The Resurrection and Ascension of Jesus (Luke 24:1-53, ESV).
A. The Resurrection of Jesus (Luke 24:1-12, ESV).
B. The Appearances of Jesus (Luke 24:13-49, ESV).
C. The Ascension of Jesus (Luke 24:50-53, ESV).
REPORTORIAL QUESTIONS
Who?
Who is the author of the Book Luke (ESV)?
Luke, a Gentile physician, and his companion Paul, wrote the Book of Luke to provide an accurate account of Jesus’ life and ministry. He emphasized God’s salvation for all people, especially the poor and outcasts. His Greek education and medical background are reflected in his writing. Luke was a meticulous historian who verified eyewitness information and arranged it chronologically. He used literary devices to enhance his narrative and emphasized the role of the Holy Spirit in guiding God’s people. Luke’s life and work inspire us to serve God and His people, overcoming cultural barriers to spread hope and salvation. Let us follow his example and share the good news of Jesus Christ with all nations.
Who are the original recipients or audience of the Book of Luke (ESV)?
The Gospel of Luke and Acts were written for a person named Theophilus, who was likely a prominent Roman official and Luke’s benefactor. Luke intended to support his readers’ teachings, illuminate why Israel rejected Jesus and how Gentiles were included in God’s plan, clarify Jesus’ teachings about his return, and reassure them about the power of earthly authorities.
Who are the main characters or groups in the Book of Luke (ESV)?
The Book of Luke (ESV) presents the awe-inspiring journey of Jesus Christ, the Son of God, who graced the earth with his teachings, healing, and ultimate sacrifice to save humanity through his death and resurrection. Accompanied by his devoted disciples, including Peter, James, John, and Judas Iscariot, Jesus performed miraculous deeds that many people saw. Mary and Joseph played a significant role as Jesus’ earthly parents, while John the Baptist paved the way for Jesus’ ministry. Despite opposition from Pharisees and Sadducees, Jesus remained steadfast in his love for humanity and his desire to fulfill God’s plan for salvation. The Book of Luke (ESV) weaves a complex web of relationships and motivations, inspiring us with the unwavering faith and commitment of Jesus and his disciples to bring hope and salvation to the world.
Who is God revealing Himself to be in the Book of Luke (ESV)?
The Book of Luke (ESV) clearly portrays God as a loving and a very compassionate deity who deeply cares for His people. This Book emphasizes His attributes of mercy, grace, and faithfulness. Throughout its pages, we witness God’s mighty acts as He fulfills His promises and provides salvation to His people. God sent His Son, Jesus Christ, to earth to fulfill His promises. Jesus healed those that were sick, performed miracles, and taught people about God’s kingdom, demonstrating His love and power. In the Book of Luke, God makes several promises. An angel appears to Zechariah in Luke 1:13-17 (ESV) and prophesies that his wife Elizabeth will bear a son named John who will be great before the Lord and turn many of the children of Israel to their God. This promise is fulfilled when John the Baptist is born and begins his ministry to prepare the way for Jesus. The Book of Luke (ESV) uniquely portrays God’s love and faithfulness toward His people. In Luke 24:47-49 (ESV), Jesus promises His disciples that the message of repentance and forgiveness of sins will be spread to all nations in His name.
Additionally, He assures them that the Holy Spirit will empower them. This promise is fulfilled in the Book of Acts when the disciples receive the Holy Spirit and boldly proclaim the Gospel to people of all nations. Through His actions, God shows that He keeps His promises and always acts on behalf of His people.
What?
What is the genre or literary form of the Book of Luke (ESV)?
The Gospel of Luke (ESV) comprises various forms of literature, including narrative history, genealogy, sermons, parables, and prophetic oracles. It belongs to the genre of historical narratives, which encompasses different sub-genres such as epics, histories, and biographies. Other sub-genres present in the Gospel of Luke include miracle stories, confrontation stories, healings, teaching, parables, and origin stories. Of all the Gospels, Luke (ESV) is mainly known for its emphasis on parables, containing nineteen parables. It is the third of the synoptic Gospels.
What is the main idea or theme of the Book of Luke (ESV)?
The Book of Luke emphasizes Jesus’ perfect humanity and portrays him as a compassionate savior who can relate to all people. It highlights the universal nature of Christianity and includes Christ’s sermon in Nazareth, which guaranteed spiritual blessings for Gentiles. Luke’s primary objective in composing his Gospel was to provide an accurate and precise account of the events of Christ’s life in chronological order. Being a physician, Luke possessed the skills of a meticulous observer, which were indispensable in this undertaking. The outcome was the first component of a two-volume work addressed to Theophilus, with the succeeding part known as the Book of Acts. Luke thoroughly scrutinized the available materials and supplemented them in whatever manner he deemed most suitable. When writing his Gospel, he did not merely assemble bits of information from various sources but made his own contributions by selecting and organizing the materials and providing the necessary interpretation to produce a comprehensive and coherent narrative.
What is the author Luke in his Book (Luke, ESV) trying to communicate or emphasize?
The Book of Luke (ESV) focuses on Jesus Christ’s perfect humanity. Luke portrays Jesus as a compassionate savior who understands and relates to everyone. He shares the personal story of our Savior and records more of Jesus’ prayers than any other book. Luke’s primary theme highlights the universal nature and appeal of Christianity. He dedicated his Gospel to a Gentile, traced Christ’s ancestry to Adam, and included Christ’s sermon in Nazareth, guaranteeing spiritual blessings for Gentiles. Luke’s Gospel is a remarkable testimony to Christ’s life, written by a skilled physician who carefully selected and organized materials to create a cohesive and complete narrative. His work is the first of a two-volume set, followed by the inspiring Acts.
What are the main events or actions in the Book of Luke (ESV)?
The Book of Luke (ESV) is a crucial part of the New Testament as it narrates the life, teachings, death, and the resurrection of Jesus Christ. It covers a wide range of significant events, including the birth of John the Baptist (Luke 1, ESV), the birth of Jesus (Luke 2:6, ESV), the boy Jesus at the Temple (Luke 2:41, ESV), John the Baptist’s preparation for Jesus’ coming (Luke 3, ESV), the baptism of Jesus (Luke 3:21, ESV), and the temptation of Jesus (Matthew 4, Mark 1:12, Luke 4, ESV).
Moreover, it also includes Jesus calling his first disciples (Matthew 4:18, Mark 1:16, Luke 5, ESV), giving instructions on prayer (Luke 11, ESV), ministering in Galilee (Matthew 8, 1st century AD; Mark 2, Luke 4:14, ESV), and demonstrating his authority as Lord of the Sabbath (Matthew,1st Century AD, 12; Mark 3, 1st Century AD; Luke 6, ESV). Additionally, Jesus answered John’s disciples (Matthew, 1st Century AD 11; Luke 7, ESV), spoke many parables (Matthew, 1st Century AD, 13; Mark, 1st Century AD, 4; Luke 8, ESV), healed a demoniac (Matthew 8:28, Mark 5, Luke 8:26, ESV), and fed the 5,000 (Matthew 14:15, Mark 6:30, Luke 9; John 6, ESV).
Peter’s confession of Christ (Matthew 16; Mark 8, Luke 9:18, ESV), the Transfiguration (Matthew 17; Mark 9, Luke 9:28, ESV), Jesus sending out the seventy-two (Luke 10, ESV), Jesus speaking more parables (Luke 12 -16, ESV), and cleansing the ten lepers (Luke 17, ESV) are also covered. The book concludes with the final journey to Jerusalem (Matthew 19, 1st Century AD, 20; Mark 10, 1st Century AD; Luke 18, 1st Century AD, ESV), the Triumphal Entry (Matthew 21, 1st Century AD; Mark 11, 1st Century AD; Luke 19, 1st Century AD; John 12, ESV), closing ministry in Jerusalem (Matthew22–25; Mark12–13; Luke20–21, ESV), Thursday before Passover (Matthew26; Mark14; Luke22; John13, ESV), Jesus’ betrayal, trial, and crucifixion (Matthew 27, 1st Century AD; Mark 15, 1st Century AD; Luke 23, 1st Century AD; John 18–19, ESV), and Jesus’ Resurrection (Matthew28; Mark16; Luke24; John20–21, ESV).
These events provide a comprehensive and informative account of the life and ministry of Jesus Christ. It is a valuable resource for anyone seeking to understand the foundations of the Christian faith.
What are the central doctrines or truths in the Book of Luke (ESV)?
The Book of Luke (ESV) offers essential truths about the Christian faith. It teaches that the Gospel is for everyone, regardless of their background, since Jesus is the promised Savior of God. Moreover, the Book highlights God’s sovereignty over history and how His kingdom is present and accessible to all who seek it. The Holy Spirit’s arrival and presence for believers is also a crucial theme, as it empowers them to live a godly life and be witnesses to Christ. The Book encourages prayer and good stewardship and warns against the dangers of materialism. These truths serve as a foundation for a life pleasing to God and are relevant to all believers today.
When?
When was the Book of Luke (ESV) written?
According to most scholars, the Book of Luke was written around AD 60-80. It was written after the Gospel of Mark, which it used as one of its sources, along with a hypothetical collection of Jesus’ sayings called Q and some unique material known as L. It was written before the Book of Acts, which is its second volume and continuation. It was written in a historical and cultural context that influenced the Roman Empire, the Jewish religion, and the early Christian movement. The author was a Gentile convert associated with Paul’s missionary journeys. The original audience was also mostly Gentile, as indicated by the genealogy of Jesus that traces back to Adam, the universal scope of God’s salvation, and the explanation of Jewish customs and terms.
When did the events recorded in the Book of Luke (ESV) occur?
The events recorded in the Book of Luke took place from around 6 BC to AD 30, covering the birth, the ministry, death, and the resurrection of Jesus Christ. They fit into the timeline of Biblical and world history as follows: Jesus was born during the reign of Caesar Augustus when Herod the Great was king of Judea (Luke 2:1-7, ESV). Jesus grew up in Nazareth, a Galilee town under the rule of Herod Antipas, a son of Herod the Great (Luke 2:39-40; 3:1, ESV). Jesus began his public ministry around AD 26, after being baptized by John the Baptist in the Jordan River (Luke 3:21-23, ESV). Jesus traveled throughout Galilee and Judea, preaching, teaching, healing, and performing miracles for about three years (Luke 4:14-19:27, ESV). Jesus entered the city of Jerusalem around AD 30, during the Passover festival, where He was welcomed by the crowds as the Messiah (Luke 19:28-40, ESV). The only perfect Man was arrested, betrayed by one closest to Him, tried, and crucified by the Jewish and Roman authorities, under the governorship of Pontius Pilate (Luke 22:1-23:56, ESV). Jesus rose from the dead on the third day and appeared to his disciples for forty days (Luke 24:1-49, ESV). Jesus ascended to heaven from Bethany, near Jerusalem (Luke 24:50-53, ESV).
When did Jesus say or do certain things in the Book of Luke (ESV)?
The teachings of Jesus are filled with wisdom and compassion. He shared parables to help us understand the importance of being a good neighbor and caring for those in need. When faced with many people, He showed kindness by performing a miracle and feeding them all. He spoke about God’s love and the importance of following His teachings in the Sermon on the Plain. Even in the face of death, he demonstrated His power by raising Lazarus from the dead. Luke’s writings show us the significance of certain words and phrases, such as the Son of Man, the kingdom of God, salvation, and joy. Each concept reminds us of God’s great love and the importance of living a life that honors Him.
Where?
Where was the Book of Luke (ESV) written?
The Book of Luke (ESV) was written by Luke, a Gentile physician and a companion of Paul. He wrote the Book around AD 60-80 and was most likely from Rome, where Paul was under house arrest. Luke wrote the Book as the first volume of a two-part work, which continued with the Book of Acts. Luke wrote the Book for a man named Theophilus, who was probably a Roman official or a wealthy patron. Luke wrote the Book to provide an orderly and accurate account of the life and ministry of Jesus Christ and show how Jesus fulfilled the Old Testament prophecies and expectations of the Messiah. He also wrote the Book to emphasize God’s universal salvation for all people, especially the poor, the oppressed, and the outcasts.
Where did the events recorded in the Book of Luke (ESV) occur?
The events recorded in the Book of Luke (ESV) took place from around 6 BC to AD 30, covering the birth, ministry, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. They occurred in various locations across Palestine and beyond, such as Galilee, Judea, Samaria, Perea, Decapolis, Phoenicia, Syria, and many other locations.
Where were Jesus or other characters in the Book of Luke (ESV) when they said or did certain things?
In the Book of Luke (ESV), the locations where Jesus and other characters said or did certain things often significantly impacted the events that took place. When Jesus was in Bethlehem and according to the Gospel of Luke, Jesus was born in Bethlehem. This fulfilled a prophecy from the Old Testament that the Messiah would be born in Bethlehem (Micah 5:2, ESV). Jesus is next found in Galilee after His Baptism and temptation in the wilderness. Jesus began his public ministry in Galilee (Luke 4:14-15, ESV). Jesus performed many miracles and taught in the synagogues there, gaining a large following.
It was not until after his Baptism and temptation in the wilderness that Jesus began his public ministry in Galilee (Luke 4:14-15, ESV). Jesus performed many miracles and taught in the synagogues there, gaining a large following. The climax of the Book of Luke (ESV) occurs in Jerusalem, where Jesus is arrested, tried, and crucified. Jesus’ death and resurrection in Jerusalem fulfilled many prophecies and profoundly impacted his followers and the world. After his resurrection, while on the road to Emmaus (Luke 24:13-35, ESV), our Lord and Savior Jesus appeared to two of his disciples on the road to Emmaus (Luke 24:13-35, ESV). During this encounter, Jesus explained to them, He taught them (the Gentiles) how the Scriptures pointed to Him and how He had fulfilled the prophecies concerning the Messiah. This encounter with Jesus strengthened the disciples’ faith and helped them understand who Jesus was more fully.
These are just a few examples of how location played a significant role in the events described in the Book of Luke (ESV). The places where Jesus and other characters said or did certain things often had symbolic or prophetic significance and helped to shape the course of events.
Why?
Why did Luke write the Book of Luke (ESV)?
Luke’s purpose in writing the Book of Luke (ESV) was to provide an accurate and orderly account of the life and ministry of Jesus Christ. Moreover, he sought to demonstrate how Jesus fulfilled the Old Testament prophecies and expectations of the Messiah. Luke also emphasized the universality of God’s salvation, especially for poor, oppressed, and outcasts. He wrote this Book for Theophilus, a man who was likely a Roman official or a wealthy patron who wanted to learn more about Christianity. The Book of Luke served as the first volume of Luke’s two-part work, which continued with the Book of Acts.
Why did the events recorded in the Book of Luke (ESV) happen?
The events chronicled in the Book of Luke (ESV) were not only a part of God’s sovereign plan to reveal his love and grace to humanity through his Son, Jesus Christ, but were also influenced by human choices and actions. Various factors, such as faith, sin, culture, and politics, shaped these events. The outcomes of these events varied, with different people and groups experiencing salvation, repentance, joy, peace, forgiveness, healing, restoration, rejection, opposition, and persecution.
Why did Jesus or other characters in the Book of Luke (ESV) say or do certain things?
In the parable of the rich fool, Jesus wanted to caution His listeners about the dangers of greed and materialism (Luke 12:13-21, ESV). This parable was narrated when someone asked Him to settle a dispute over inheritance (Luke 12:13, ESV). Jesus used this parable to communicate that life is not just about having an abundance of possessions but about being rich in Spirit towards God (Luke 12:15; 21, ESV). When Jesus healed the woman who had been crippled for eighteen years on the Sabbath day (Luke 13:10-17, ESV), He did so out of compassion for her and a desire to set her free from her bondage (Luke 13:12, ESV). Jesus performed this miracle to demonstrate His power and authority as the Lord of the Sabbath (Luke 13:15, ESV). Jesus also did this miracle to expose the hypocrisy and legalism of the synagogue ruler and some Pharisees who criticized Him for breaking their traditions (Luke 13:14; 17, ESV).
The prodigal son told his father, “I have sinned against heaven and before you. I am no longer worthy to be called your son” (Luke 15:21, ESV). He said this after he had wasted his inheritance on reckless living and ended up in a desperate situation (Luke 15:11-16, ESV). He said this because he realized his mistakes and decided to return to his father with a repentant heart (Luke 15:17-20, ESV). He expressed his remorse and humility before his father. The father told his older son, “Son, you are always with me, and all that is mine is yours” (Luke 15:31, ESV). He said this after his older son had complained about his father’s celebration of his younger brother’s return (Luke 15:25-30, ESV). He said this out of his love for his older son and his desire for him to share in the joy of his brother’s restoration (Luke 15:32, ESV). He reminded his older son of his inheritance and their special bond.
How?
How did Luke write the Book of Luke (ESV)?
Luke meticulously researched and investigated the accounts of those who had witnessed and preached the word of God before writing the Book of Luke (ESV) (Luke 1:1-4, ESV). He drew from various sources such as the Gospel of Mark, a collection of Jesus’ teachings known as Q, and other unique material referred to as L. In addition, he used his personal experience and knowledge gained as a physician and companion of Paul. The Book is characterized by its polished and eloquent Greek style and is written in a mix of historical, biographical, and theological genres.
How did the events recorded in the Book of Luke (ESV) happen according to God’s sovereign plan and providence?
God used various means and agents to accomplish his purposes, such as angels, prophets, miracles, signs, and wonders. He also used human choices and actions influenced by various factors such as faith, sin, culture, politics, etc. He also used natural events and circumstances, such as births, deaths, famines, and wars. Jesus or other characters in the Book of Luke (ESV) said or did certain things by using various skills and strategies. For example:
Jesus said the parable of the good Samaritan by using a common storytelling technique that involved a question, a story, and an application (Luke 10:25-37, ESV). He used this technique to engage his listeners’ attention, challenge their assumptions, and teach them a lesson. Jesus did the miracle of healing a woman who had been crippled for eighteen years by using his divine authority and power as the Son of God (Luke 13:10-17, ESV). He (Jesus) used this power to demonstrate His compassion and mercy for the woman and His Lordship over the Sabbath.
In the parable of the “prodigal son,” the son said to his father, “I have sinned against heaven and before you. I am no longer worthy to be called your son.” by using a confession of guilt and repentance (Luke 15:21, ESV). He used this confession to express his sorrow and humility before his father and his desire for forgiveness and restoration. The father said to his older son, “Son, you are always with me, and all that is mine is yours.” by using an affirmation of love and inheritance (Luke 15:31, ESV). He used this affirmation to express his love and care for his older son, as well as his invitation for him to join in the joy of his brother’s restoration.
How did Luke in the Book of Luke (ESV) say or do certain things with words and phrases?
Throughout the Book of Luke (ESV), author Luke frequently employs the word “today” to highlight the significance of events and statements related to Jesus’ identity and mission (Luke 2:11; 4:21; 5:26; 19:9; 23:43, ESV). Luke uses this word to underscore the urgency and importance of God’s action and revelation in history through Jesus Christ. He also invites readers to respond to God’s offer of salvation in Christ with faith and obedience. Additionally, Luke often refers to Jesus as the “Son of Man,” emphasizing his dual nature as both human and divine, as well as his role as the suffering servant who would die and rise again according to God’s plan (Luke 5:24; 9:22; 19:10, ESV). This phrase is most frequently used in the Book’s second half, during Jesus’ journey to Jerusalem, to show that Jesus was fulfilling his mission as the Son of Man, who came to seek and save the lost. Luke also employs the term “salvation” to mean deliverance from sin and its consequences and restoration of God’s favor and fellowship (Luke 1:69; 2:30; 19:9, ESV). This term is used more frequently in the first half of the Book, particularly when narrating the birth and childhood of Jesus. Through this term, Luke demonstrates that Jesus is the source and means of God’s salvation for all people and that he is fulfilling the prophecies and promises of the Old Testament regarding salvation. Finally, Luke uses the word “joy” to express God’s delight over repentant sinners and faithful servants (Luke 15:7; 17:15; 24:52, ESV). This word is frequently used in the middle of the Book, during the narration of Jesus’ parables and teachings, to show that Jesus was revealing God’s heart and character to his people. Luke also invites readers to share this joy and celebrate God’s grace.
KEY VERSES
“For nothing will be impossible with God” (Luke 1:37, ESV). The verse portrays God’ might and dominion over everything while highlighting His competence in delivering His commitments and designs, even if they appear unattainable to us.
“And the angel said to them, ‘Fear not, for behold, I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord'” (Luke 2:10-11, ESV). The birth of Jesus Christ, the Messiah and Savior of the world, brings good news of great joy to all people, regardless of their ethnicity, status, or condition.
“The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim liberty to the captives and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty those who are oppressed, to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor” (Luke 4:18-19, ESV). This powerful verse, taken from Isaiah 61:1-2 (ESV), was spoken by Jesus at the outset of his public ministry in Nazareth. It speaks of his divine calling and purpose as the chosen One of God, sent to bring his salvation and kingdom to those who need His boundless grace and mercy.
“And he said to all, ‘If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me. For whoever would save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for my sake will save it. For what does it profit a man if he gains the whole world and loses or forfeits himself?” (Luke 9:23-25, ESV). This verse inspires Jesus’ followers to reflect on the cost of discipleship and wholeheartedly devote themselves to him. It emphasizes that following Jesus requires sacrifice, carrying the cross, and submitting to his will, even if it means risking one’s own life. It also cautions against the emptiness of pursuing material wealth at the expense of one’s eternal soul.
“Just so, I tell you, there will be more joy in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine righteous persons who need no repentance” (Luke 15:7, ESV). In this parable of the lost sheep, we see God’s boundless love and overwhelming joy at the restoration of those who are lost and have repented. It serves as a powerful reminder of God’s different attitude from that of the Pharisees and scribes, who criticized Jesus for spending time with sinners.
“For the Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost” (Luke 19:10, ESV). Jesus’ ultimate purpose was to seek and save the lost, those who are spiritually separated from God. He demonstrated this by warmly welcoming Zacchaeus, a chief tax collector shunned by many.
“And Jesus said, ‘Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do'” (Luke 23:34, ESV). This verse shows Jesus’ unwavering compassion and forgiveness towards those who wronged him and his Father. His prayer and attitude during his crucifixion exemplify his teaching on loving one’s enemies and praying for those who persecute you, as recorded in Luke 6:27-28 (ESV).
“And he said to them, ‘Thus it is written, that the Christ should suffer and on the third day rise from the dead, and that repentance for the forgiveness of sins should be proclaimed in his name to all nations, beginning from Jerusalem'” (Luke 24:46-47, ESV). These powerful verses encapsulate Jesus’ teachings to his disciples after his resurrection. They beautifully illustrate how he fulfilled the prophecies in the Scriptures regarding his sacrifice, death, and resurrection. Furthermore, through these teachings, he inspired and empowered his disciples to spread the good news of redemption and forgiveness to all nations, beginning with Jerusalem.
OTHER MAJOR IMPRESSIONS
• Luke’s Gospel is a beautiful example of God’s love for all people, regardless of their background or ethnicity.
• Luke emphasizes the importance of prayer, especially in Jesus’ life, and the joy of sharing the Gospel’s good news.
• He is particularly attentive to the roles of women, the needs of people experiencing poverty, and the importance of the family and the Holy Spirit.
• Through his use of parables and praise for God, Luke shows us how we can all be better followers of Christ.
References:
Bauer, D. R., & Traina, R. A. (2014). Inductive bible study – a comprehensive guide to the practice of hermeneutics. Baker Publishing Group.
