A Gospel Record

Luke 1.

Luke 1:1–4 CSB

Many have undertaken to compile a narrative about the events that have been fulfilled among us, just as the original eyewitnesses and servants of the word handed them down to us. It also seemed good to me, since I have carefully investigated everything from the very first, to write to you in an orderly sequence, most honorable Theophilus, so that you may know the certainty of the things about which you have been instructed.

1.1-4

Who? [Luke…non-apostle, Greek, educated; early church testimony; Common authorship of Luke-Acts = ‘we’ sections of Acts (; ; )...

Whom? [Theophilus… “friend/lover of God”…Gentile audience (emphases)

When? [earliest possible=early 60s (after events of )…latest possible=c. 170 (or earliest reference to Luke as author of this gospel)… Most likely 61-63AD…before Acts]

Where? [Opt1=from Rome in latter part of Paul’s imprisonment there… Opt2=earlier, Paul’s imprisonment in Caesarea ()]

What? [Opening text…an orderly account of the life and purpose of Christ from compiling various eyewitness testimonies]

Why? [Opening text…to specifically evangelize Gentiles and encourage Gentile Christians]

1.5-80

Scan through the rest of chapter one.

What is your favorite part? [one of mine=Mary Visits Elizabeth (); another=The Magnificat (Luke 1.46-56)]

What stands out to you about the first two narratives? [The detail...The frankness of the angel…the questions of the message recipients…the difference in consequences <Zech had been praying for this issue and doubted God’s special answer, whereas Mary was not seeking but was sought out>]

How is Gabriel described? [stands in the presence of God]

The Magnificat ()

How would you describe any change in Mary from the announcement to this time in her life? [growth in awareness…of who she is in relationship to what God can and is doing/going to do]

How big is her God? […what makes you say that?]

How could we benefit from what we have seen in these verses?