Book 42 · New Testament · Gospels
Luke
To give an orderly account showing God's salvation reaching all people.
World at a glance
The Roman Empire · Jewish and Greco-Roman social worlds
The text doesn't name its author; tradition says Luke, a companion of Paul
Usually dated AD 70–90
Theophilus and a wider non-Jewish Christian audience
What was happening in the world
Luke anchors his story in the empire's own records — Caesar Augustus's census, Tiberius's reign, Pilate's governorship — placing Jesus inside documented Roman history. Written for a Gentile reader, his Gospel moves through a Mediterranean world ordered by patronage, honor, and strict social boundaries, and keeps crossing them: the poor, women, Samaritans, and outsiders take center stage.
What this helps us see
Jesus' sermon at Nazareth defines his Spirit-anointed mission as good news for the poor, release, sight, and freedom — not abstract spirituality.
The shape of the book
- 01Birth and preparation (1–4)
- 02Ministry in Galilee (4–9)
- 03The journey to Jerusalem (9–19)
- 04The cross and resurrection (19–24)
Grace and holy living
The Spirit forms holy compassion that crosses boundaries, shares possessions, welcomes people at the table, and seeks the lost.
For reflection
Where is God’s grace inviting you beyond knowledge into wholehearted love and faithful action?