I realize studying history is not for everyone. Twenty some years ago I could have cared less about it. I was only interested in receiving a good grade in my history classes. I didn’t try to retain any information; I just did what I needed to get by. Well, that has changed. In a day and age where the written word leaves room for personal interpretation, I find historical facts to be extremely important.

It’s those thoughts that now carry over to how I study scripture. I want to know the meaning behind each word, whether Greek or Hebrew. I want to know the author’s background of the books I read in the Bible. Basically, I want to know the historical significance of what I’m reading. So, you can imagine my excitement as we begin this year delving into the Gospel of Luke, where we will have the opportunity to meet many biblical/historical figures. We will see the life of Christ played out by eyewitness account. And we will hear parables and stories told in a fresh way. I hope you will tune in weekly to follow us on this journey of Luke.

So, for you history buffs, here are some facts about our author. Luke was the only Gentile who wrote scripture. He wrote the book of Luke and the book of Acts. The Apostle Paul, called him the “beloved physician,” which have left many Bible scholars to believe he was a doctor. However, in those times the position of a physician was not as prestigious as today. In those days physicians were usually slaves.

As Luke, chapter one opens, Luke addresses Theophilus. Some scholars believe Theophilus may have been Luke’s master. Others believe he was saying Theophilao, which is a Greek word meaning “lovers of God.” Thus he is addressing all those who Iove God. I tend to believe Theophilus was actually a person and “most excellent” was stated because he held some ruling position in the Roman government. But, that is my interpretation. I encourage you to study for yourself and see what you come up with.

“Many have undertaken to draw up an account of the things that have been fulfilled among us, just as they were handed down to us by those who from the first were eyewitnesses and servants of the word. Therefore, since I myself have carefully investigated everything from the beginning, it seemed good also to me to write an orderly account for you, most excellent Theophilus, so that you may know the certainty of the things you have been taught.” Luke 1:1-4

Luke states with some authority in these opening verses that he has carefully investigated all the stories he is recording. One picture that comes to mind for me in Luke, chapter one, is Luke and Mary (the mother of Jesus), sitting down and visiting. I picture Luke asking pointed and probing questions and Mary sharing her heart. Commentaries have stated that the detail in which Luke records chapters one and two could only have come from a direct interview with Mary. You will also notice that the other three gospels do not cover this story in as much detail as Luke does. Given his medical background he was probably very interested in Mary’s account of the birth of Christ. It is with this accuracy, I believe, Luke writes this account of biblical history.

Now don’t misunderstand, I am not saying that other authors of scripture didn’t approach their writing with the same accuracy. Luke just brings a different background to the table. I am certain, as with all other authors of scripture, Luke followed the direct promptings of our Heavenly Father to record this beautiful, life-changing , relevant message. Thank you Luke, for your obedience to our Lord!

“All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.” 2 Timothy 3:16-17