Scripture to Read: Luke 1:1–4
God used Luke to write the Gospel of Luke as both an encouragement to believers and as a defense of the Gospel of Christ. Many theologians believe that, as God used Luke to write to Theophilus, this letter was intended to strengthen the faith of believers and help them defend their faith against the enemies of the Roman Empire. The Roman Empire strongly opposed Christianity because it felt Christians were being disloyal to the Roman Empire. As God led Luke to write, we read in Luke 1:1–4, “Inasmuch as many have undertaken to compile an account of the things accomplished among us, 2 just as they were handed down to us by those who from the beginning were eyewitnesses and servants of the word, 3 it seemed fitting for me as well, having investigated everything carefully from the beginning, to write it out for you in consecutive order, most excellent Theophilus; 4 so that you may know the exact truth about the things you have been taught.” God had Luke write this to Theophilus, although others had already written of the life of Jesus. As God led Luke to write, Luke was probably referring to the Gospel of Mark and the Gospel of Matthew. Most theologians believe that the Gospel of John was written after the Gospel of Luke. God used “eyewitnesses and servants of the word” to share with others about Jesus so all could know that He was and is the Messiah, the Savior of the world. God desires all to “know the exact truth” about Christ so everyone will repent and believe in Him.
Challenge & Application
Why did the Roman Empire oppose Christianity and why do people still oppose it today?
Why did God have Luke write the Gospel of Luke and how is this still applicable to all people today?
Don’t forget to pray using the A.C.T.S. (Adoration, Confession, Thanksgiving, Supplication) method!