A Look at Luke: The Certainty of Things Taught

by David Chadwick

Luke wanted Theophilus, and any future readers, to know the certainty of things taught (Luke 1:4).

How were truths passed on during these biblical times?

First, through oral tradition. Never underestimate the ability of people to remember what has been taught to them verbally. For some in Luke’s day, this was the only way to transmit truths to future generations. Therefore, people repeated truths through families, in public arenas, and within gatherings in order to both learn and pass on information. Without oral tradition, truths and generational realities were lost.

Secondly, through written tradition. As societies became more advanced, written transmission of information became more doable. There were scrolls, parchments, ink, pens, and other means of writing available to authors. Luke took advantage of means and made sure that the gospel truths were not just passed down orally, but through written word. He wanted writings to be available to other people to grow in personal discipleship and to pass down these truths to future generations.

The Gospel of Luke did this. Luke carefully, painstakingly, and proudly wrote down everything he saw and heard. He provided great certainty through eyewitnesses and gave intricate details that only a doctor would seek to find. I would surmise that Luke recorded with divinely inspired certainty, yes, for Theophilus, but also for his good friend Paul, and with future generations, including you and me, in mind!

Aren’t you grateful for Luke? I sure am! I am so glad that God called this amazing man and physician to give us this beautiful Gospel that we will study together over the coming months. This book of the Bible makes me love my Lord and my Savior, Jesus, with greater fervor. I pray it does the same for you!

Now that we understand the author named Luke, join me next week as we take a look at our first character at the cradle, Zechariah.