The Gospel of Luke

Luke, the beloved physician, portrayed Jesus as the Son of Man, who is the Savior of the world. He was a close friend and companion of Paul; the only Gentile author of any NT book.  He also wrote the Book of Acts and was with Paul at his martyrdom.  He addressed both his writings to Theophilus, meaning "friend of God" or "dear to God".  As you read this book, know that it is meant for you as well since you're dear to God.


Luke's purpose was to give an accurate account of the life of Christ for the spiritual well-being of Theophilus and to remind him of what he already knew.  He also revealed the compassionate side of Christ through His sacrificial offering on behalf of the world.   Luke was an accurate historian who relied on eye witnesses' accounts as well as the Holy Spirit's inspiration to help him write in systematic order.


The key elements in Luke's account are the parables.  And he also had a unique interest in individuals such as Zaccheus (19:1-10), the penitent thief (23:39-43), the prodigal son (15:11-32), the pentient publican (18:9-14), the good Samaritan (10:29-37) and the one thankful leper (17:11-19).  Likewise, God has His eyes on you, no matter what the circumstances you're going through.  And we too should be concerned about individuals!


What struck me as I read the first chapter was the couplets of ideas that were given:
1) Two angelic visitations - one to Zacharias and one to Mary (v 11,26-27).
2) Two seemingly innocent questions (v 18, 34).
3) Two conceptions (v 24, 42).
4) Two seemingly impossible conceptions - one suffered from barrenness and the other a virgin.
5) Two prophetic utterances - one by Mary and one by Zacharias (v 39ff, 67ff).


The wonderful promise given by the angel Gabriel, "For nothing will be impossible with God."   (v 37)
Are you suffering from barrenness?  Either literally unable to conceive or experiencing no success with getting an employment or stagnating in your job or getting no headway in your relationship.
Continue to pray and seek God like Zacharias, remain humble like Mary.  When God acts, no one can stop the flow of His blessings.  And when that time comes, you'll rejoice like Mary and Zacharias of old.  Hallelujah!