Overview Well written Greek Audience – Greek converts predominantly Gentile Written around 80-85 AD Sources: Mark, ‘Q’ and unique material To challenge believers to put their faith in action more fully Scholars often refer to “Luke/Acts” as one book.

Ministry to the excluded or disadvantaged Those who might be despised or overlooded receive special attention (note references to Samaritans 9:51-56 10:29-37 17:11-19 And tax collectors 15:1-2, 18:9-14, 19:1-10 Note how this is alluded to in the magnificat Spelled out in Jesus’ inaugural address.

Women in Luke’s Gospel Prominence of women in gospel 1:26-66. 7:11-17, 8:1-3, 11:27-28, And parallel references man/woman both represented Annunciation to Zechariah – annunciation to Mary Canticle of Mary ---- Canticle of Zechariah Presentation === prophecy of Simeon & prophecy of Anna Man w/ mustard seed – woman w/ yeast (13:18 – 21) Shepherd looking for lost sheep -- woman looking for lost coin Crippled woman is healed – lame man is healed

Luke’s gospel shows Jesus at meals often Luke’s gospel shows Jesus at meals often. It is at meals that we recognize him; especially in the Emmaus journey. The disciples finally recognize Jesus when he sits to eat with them, in the ‘breaking of the bread’.

Jesus prays more in this Gospel than any other His Baptism, transfiguration, before choosing Disciples, before he questions them about his identity and before he predicts Peter’s denial. Pointed toward Jerusalem First chapters w liturgical hymns 4:15, 5:25, 7:16 - - -20 references to people worshiping or giving thanks to God

Unique to Luke. . . . Canticles (Magnificat, Benedictus, Nunc Dimittis) Infancy narrative (Annunciation, shepherds, angels) (ch 1 & 2) Jesus’ inaugural sermon (4:14-30) Parable of Good Samaritan (10:29-37) Parable of prodigal son (15:11-32) Parable of the lost coin (15:8-10) Parable of rich man and Lazarus (16:19-31) Story of Zacchaeus (19:1-10) Jesus appears on the rod to Emmaus (24:13-35) Jesus’ ascension (24:50-53)