A “beautiful” story Luke

 Where?  Around 80s (if author used Mark, 65–73 CE)  Gospel intended for wide distribution  Two volumes (Luke-Acts) dedicated to a patron Theophilus Date and Place

 Anonymous Gospel  Paul’s traveling companion? see Acts 16:10–17  Tradition says: “Luke the Physician”  Well educated, impressive vocabulary  Knowledge of classical literature, styles of writing, and Hebrew scriptures  Hellenistic Jew? Gentile convert?  Used written sources (Mark, Q) Author

 Unique material includes five miracle stories and seventeen parables  Discipleship given an immersion experience: “learning on the job”  Changes to Mark Smoothes rough language Broadens appeal to “more culturally diverse audience” (text p. 153) Softens Mark’s portrayal of Jesus’ disciples Uses Greek similar to Septuagint’s language Uses musical and poetic language of liturgy Style

 Women  Ministry to the excluded and disadvantaged  Samaritans  Jerusalem, a focal point  Worship and prayer  Food  Riches and poverty  Work of the Holy Spirit  Disciples of Jesus are examples for imitation  Salvation Available here and now Liberation  Muted eschatology Key Themes

Luke (part 1)  Birth story and genealogy (1–2)  Ministry (3–9)  Journey to Jerusalem (9:51–19:44)  Passion (19:45–24:12)  Resurrection appearances (24:13–53) Acts (part 2) Outline