The Gospel of Luke for Today

THE GOSPEL OF LUKE FOR TODAY Student’s name Course Date Introduction The gospel according to Luke is unique in many ways and offers teachings that are extremely relevant in the contemporary era. It is not only the longest among the four gospels, but it is also part one of a two-volume work, with Acts being the second part. Luke does a great job of telling the story of Jesus, right from the annunciation of his conception to his ascension to heaven. The prologue the gospel (Luke 1:1–4) reveals Luke as a historian, who meticulously investigated and recorded facts from eyewitnesses and servants of the word.[Brown, R. E. (1997). An Introduction to the New Testament. New York: Doubleday, 225] The gospel begins with the annunciation of the birth of John the Baptist (JBap), with Luke recalling Abraham and Sarah in portraying Zechariah and Elizabeth. With the start of God’s final plan, JBap was sent to prepare the way before the coming of Jesus. The annunciation of the birth of Jesus (1:26-38) was significant in the sense that it marked the newness of God’s intentions for His people. As proclaimed by Gabriel, the Messiah would fulfill the expectations of Israel and he would become the Son of God. Through Jesus’ birth, circumcision, and presentation in the Temple, Luke provides an important account for the reader before the start of Jesus’ Ministry.[Brown, 229] From 4:14 to 9:50, Luke dedicates his work to the account of Jesus’ first public ministry, that is, the ministry in Galilee. The rejection of Jesus at Nazareth as written by Luke is integral in preparing the reader for the ultimate fate that would befall Him. With Carpenaum being the center of Jesus' ministry in Galilee, Luke recounts how Jesus performed exorcism, healed the sick, and cast out demons. Jesus' ministry in Galilee was also characterized by Pharisees' criticisms of Jesus and the choice of the twelve. Other miracles as written by Luke showing the compassion and power of Jesus include the healing of the centurion’s servant, the raising of the son of the widow of Nain, calming of the sea storm, the healing of the daughter of Jairus, and the healing of the woman with the hemorrhage.[Brown, 237] [Brown, 239-242] From 9:51 to 19:27, Luke focuses on the journey of Jesus to Jerusalem where he would conduct his final ministry. Many events occur in this part of Luke's gospel, including the sending of the seventy-two and the parables of the Good Samaritan, the fig tree, the lost sheep, the lost coin, and the prodigal son. The parable of the rich man and Lazarus is also covered, emphasizing the theme of mishandled wealth. Jesus' ministry in Jerusalem is documented from 19:51 to 19:27. His royal entry into the city was significant in showing Jesus as king and marked the start of his teaching in the temple. Jesus tells the parable of the wicked tenant as he answers the question of the chief priests and scribes.[Brown, 253] The final part of the gospel of Luke covers the Last Supper, passion, death, and burial of Jesus (21:1–23:56). After the Last Supper, he goes to pray at Mount Olives where He is arrested. He later faces charges as he is presented to the pilate. Luke documents the way of the cross, his crucifixion, and burial in 23:26–56. As revealed by Brown, it is only in Luke where Jesus speaks during crucifixion, saying "Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they do" (23:41a). Before His ascension, Luke narrates the women finding an empty tomb and risen Jesus' encounter with two disciples on Emmaus Road. On the evening of the resurrection day, Jesus explains the scripture to the disciples before ascending to heaven (24:50–53). Unlike other gospels, Luke provided a detailed narrative of Jesus’ life and ministry. Themes in Luke While there are many themes in Luke that intersect with contemporary issues for the church, this section focuses on God’s love for the poor, prisoners, and the oppressed and the danger of money. The Gospel of Luke demonstrates God's care and love for the poor, the needy, prisoners, and the oppressed. In Luke 3:11, John teaches us to share clothes and food with those who do not have them. In Luke 4:18-19, Jesus says that He was anointed to bring good news to the poor, freedom to the prisoners, eyesight for the blind, and to f...