Read Luke 1:1-4

Luke’s gospel account is unique from the other accounts because it begins with an emphasis on the purpose and also is addressed to someone. As we look at the opening of Luke’s account we notice that he has chosen to undertake the task of compiling the information he is about to impart on the readers.

The message Luke will share is not based on information that has been passed down from generation to generation but a firsthand telling from those who were eyewitnesses of the life of Jesus. These eyewitness were tasked with passing this information on to others. We know the importance of an eyewitness account versus what has been shared many times. Stories begin to grow and take on a life of their own as each individual usually has to put their own spin on things. Luke received the message for his gospel record directly from the men who were with Jesus.

Luke wanted to share this information with others. The word gospel means good news. Luke wanted to share the good news with Theophilus. The identity of Theophilus remains unknown. He appears to be someone of importance as Luke addresses him as “most excellent” but we are never told the exact identity. Luke also begins the book of Acts similarly taking the story of Jesus from birth to ascension and also the growth of the Church as the apostles take center stage.

Luke shares with us the reason for the gospel record in verse 4. Luke wants us to have certainty about the things we have been taught. This is important for us today as we read scripture. This is the confirmation of where our faith is placed. We must take courage from the pages of God’s Word and know that the good news is for us today. Luke tells us about the life of Jesus and how he came to seek and save the lost. This message is for all people all over the world. We can live confidently knowing that our faith is secure when it is placed in Jesus.