The Gospel of Luke is a meticulously researched and beautifully written account of Jesus Christ’s life, ministry, death, and resurrection. Traditionally attributed to Luke, a Greek physician and companion of Paul (Colossians 4:14), this Gospel presents Jesus as both the Messiah of the Jews and the Savior of all humanity. Written primarily for Greeks, especially Theophilus (1:3–4), Luke’s Gospel emphasizes Jesus’ compassion, humanity, and mission to seek and save the lost. This survey will explore the key themes, structure, and theological contributions of the Gospel of Luke.

Keys to Understanding Luke

• Human Author: Luke, a Greek physician and companion of Paul, as mentioned in Colossians 4:14. His background as a scientist and historian lends precision and detail to his narrative.
• Type of Writing: Gospel/Historical Narrative. Luke combines thorough research with eloquent storytelling, making it one of the most comprehensive Gospels.
• Date of Writing: Around AD 60, likely after the Book of Acts. Its careful documentation reflects a later date when eyewitness testimonies were still accessible.
• Primary Audience: Greeks, particularly Theophilus (1:3–4). Luke writes to provide certainty about Jesus’ identity and mission.
• Key Verse: Luke 19:10 — “For the Son of Man has come to seek and to save that which was lost.”
• Big Idea: Jesus is both the Messiah of the Jews and the Savior of all mankind (2:10–11).

Outline of Luke

Introduction to Theophilus (Chapter 1:1–4)

Luke begins by explaining his purpose and methodology.

• A. As a Historian, Luke Wrote Down the Testimonies of Eyewitnesses (1:1–2): He gathered accounts from those who had witnessed Jesus’ life firsthand.
• B. Luke Recorded What He Learned Through Extensive Research (1:3): His investigation ensured accuracy and completeness.
• C. Dedicated to Theophilus: The book is addressed to a man of nobility, possibly a sponsor, ensuring its credibility and accessibility.
• D. Purpose of the Gospel: To give Theophilus (and other readers) certainty about the truth of Jesus’ life and teachings (1:4).
• E. Precision and Style: Luke’s writing combines scientific rigor with artistic elegance, appealing to both intellect and emotion.

Two Miraculous Births (Chapters 1–2) — The Dawn of Redemption

This section introduces two miraculous births: John the Baptist and Jesus.

• A. Angelic Announcement to Zacharias: The birth of John the Baptist is foretold, emphasizing his role as the forerunner of Christ.
• B. Angelic Announcement to Mary: The angel Gabriel announces the conception of Jesus through the Holy Spirit.
• C. Mary’s Song of Praise: Mary celebrates God’s faithfulness and mercy in her Magnificat (1:46–55).
• D. Zacharias’ Song of Praise: Zacharias prophesies about John’s mission and Jesus’ coming kingdom (1:67–79).
• E. Angelic Announcement to Shepherds at Bethlehem: Angels proclaim the birth of the Savior, bringing glory to God.
• F. Angels’ Song of Praise: Heaven rejoices over the arrival of the Messiah.
• G. Two Old, Wise Saints at the Temple: Simeon and Anna recognize Jesus as the fulfillment of prophecy.
• H. Young, Wise Jesus at the Temple: At age twelve, Jesus demonstrates His divine wisdom and commitment to His Father’s work (2:41–52).

Jesus’ Mission in Galilee (Chapters 3–9) — The Beginning of Ministry

Jesus initiates His public ministry in Galilee, demonstrating authority and teaching profound truths.

 — A. Preparation by John the Baptist: John prepares the way for Jesus, calling people to repent.

 — B. Genealogy of Jesus Going Back to Adam: Luke traces Jesus’ lineage to Adam, emphasizing His universal significance as the second Adam.

 — C. Victory Over Satan’s Temptation: Jesus triumphs over temptation in the wilderness, establishing His moral authority.

 — D. Demonstration of Authority:

• In His preaching (4:32).
• Over demonic spirits (4:35).
• Over all diseases (4:40).
• Over the fish of the sea (5:4–11).
• Over sin, with power to forgive (5:20–25).
• Over the Sabbath day (6:5).
• Over death (7:12–15).

 — E. The Lord’s Teachings: Jesus delivers the Sermon on the Plain, teaching love, forgiveness, and justice (6:27–31).

 — F. The Lord’s Parables: Jesus uses parables to reveal the mysteries of the Kingdom (8:9–10).

 — G. The Lord’s Miracles: Jesus performs numerous miracles, showcasing His divine power.

 — H. The Lord’s Transfiguration: Jesus is glorified before Peter, James, and John, confirming His identity as the Son of God (9:29–35).

Jesus’ Journey to Jerusalem (Chapters 9–19) — The Road to Redemption

Jesus sets His face toward Jerusalem, revealing His mission to die and rise again.

• A. Revelation of Himself as the Christ: Jesus declares His identity as the Messiah but also reveals His coming suffering (9:20–22).
• B. Heading Toward the Cross: From this point, Jesus resolutely journeys to Jerusalem (9:51).
• C. Teachings About the Kingdom: Jesus instructs His followers on discipleship, humility, and service.
• D. Dining with the Pharisees: Jesus challenges their hypocrisy and calls for genuine righteousness (11:37–39).
• E. Dining with the Poor: Jesus associates with outcasts, drawing criticism from religious leaders (15:1–2).
• F. Parables of Lost Things: Jesus teaches about God’s joy in saving the lost, including the parable of the prodigal son (15:4–32).
• G. Continued Journey to Jerusalem: Jesus remains steadfast in His mission, predicting His death and resurrection (18:31–33).
• H. Salvation of Outcasts: Jesus saves individuals like Zacchaeus, fulfilling His mission to seek and save the lost (19:9–10).

Jesus’ Final Week in Jerusalem (Chapters 19–24) — The Climax of Redemption

The final week culminates in Jesus’ crucifixion, resurrection, and commissioning of His disciples.

• A. Triumphal Entry: Jesus enters Jerusalem as King, hailed by crowds but mourned by Him due to their impending rejection (19:37–44).
• B. Cleansing the Temple: Jesus drives out corrupt merchants, asserting His authority over the temple.
• C. Sharing the Passover: Jesus institutes the Lord’s Supper during the Last Supper (22:13–20).
• D. Betrayal by Judas: Judas betrays Jesus, leading to His arrest (22:47–48).
• E. Denial by Peter: Peter denies knowing Jesus three times (22:55–62).
• F. Crucifixion: Jesus is crucified between two thieves, forgiving even His executioners (23:33–34).
• G. Resurrection: Three days later, the tomb is found empty, and Jesus appears to His disciples (24:1–12).
• H. Expounding the Scriptures: Jesus explains how the Messiah must suffer and rise again to fulfill Scripture (24:25–27).

The Great Commission (Chapter 24) — The Call to Witness

Jesus commissions His disciples to spread the gospel to all nations.

• A. Final Meal Together: Jesus shares one last meal with His disciples, reinforcing their mission.
• B. Opening Their Understanding: Jesus helps them grasp the necessity of His death and resurrection for salvation (24:44–46).
• C. Sending Them Forth: The disciples are charged to preach repentance and forgiveness in Jesus’ name to all nations (24:47–48).
• D. Ascension: Jesus blesses His disciples and ascends into heaven (24:50–53).
• E. Awaited Promise: The disciples return to Jerusalem, awaiting the coming of the Holy Spirit.

Additional Insights

• Theological Themes: Luke emphasizes Jesus’ compassion, universality, and mission to save the lost. The Gospel highlights themes of redemption, forgiveness, and inclusion.
• Mission and Church: Luke highlights the global mission of the church, calling believers to be witnesses to the ends of the earth.
• Eschatology: While not as detailed as Matthew or Mark, Luke includes teachings about the end times, focusing on the importance of readiness and faithfulness.

Conclusion

The Gospel of Luke presents Jesus as the Son of Man, who came to seek and save the lost. Through its meticulous research, vivid storytelling, and emphasis on compassion and inclusivity, Luke invites readers to recognize Jesus as both the Jewish Messiah and the Savior of all humanity. The Great Commission (24:47–48) serves as a fitting conclusion, calling all believers to participate in spreading the good news of salvation. Luke’s Gospel remains a timeless testimony to the person and work of Jesus Christ, inviting all to follow Him as Lord and Savior.