Luke 1:1-4 Luke’s Description of How He Wrote His Book

Since many have undertaken to set down an orderly account of the events that have been fulfilled among us, just as they were handed on to us by those who from the beginning were eyewitnesses and servants of the word, I too decided, after investigating everything carefully from the very first, to write an orderly account for you, most excellent Theophilus, so that you may know the truth concerning the things about which you have been instructed. (New Revised Standard Version)

… many have undertaken to set down an orderly account … Evidently others had written an “account” of Jesus’ life and ministry. “Many” – not clear how many More than Matthew and Mark

… they were handed on to us … The events (and teachings) were handed down through Oral teachings. It had been at least a generation since Jesus’ death. The early disciples used Jesus’ teachings and miracles in their teachings. Jesus’ teachings were being “handed on.”

… by those who from the beginning were eyewitnesses and servants of the word … Eyewitnesses were there and would be able to “hand on” the information. This would primarily be the disciples, men and women. Perhaps also Mary and other family members. “Servants of the word” – individuals who were recognized as responsible for preserving the tradition/teachings accurately.

… after investigating everything carefully from the very first … Luke has worked on this project for some time. He has “investigated carefully” –Read the other works –Talked to eyewitnesses –Talked to and gotten information from the “servants of the word”

… to write an orderly account … The term orderly does not necessarily refer to chronological order. It may refer to an orderly arrangement. It may suggest that the others he had used were not all arranged in an orderly fashion. Perhaps some were primarily lists of sayings or collections of miracle stories.

… most excellent Theophilus … “Most excellent” – perhaps a title for a wealthy person, governmental official, etc. Theophilus – perhaps a person “Theophilus” means “lover of God” – could be a general term addressing anyone wanting to know more about Jesus’ life and ministry.

… so that you may know the truth concerning the things about which you have been instructed …. Luke wanted Theophilus and his readers to know the truth of Jesus’ teachings. He wanted to help them have a good understanding of Jesus ministry, but also an assurance of what they had already learned.

Summary of Luke’s Efforts Luke did a lot of research Used written sources Used oral tradition Talked to eyewitnesses Wrote what he thought was a better account than he had seen