2:21-40 – The Presentation of Jesus in the Temple
As in the story of John, Jesus’ family waits the 8 days for the circumcision to happen as according to the law, and he is named at this point in the same manner. There is no problem with the naming as was the case with John. No one needed correction at this point. All is going according to what the angel told Mary, God’s Word is being fulfilled! We hear that Joseph and Mary also do everything according to the law for purification offering sacrifices. The consecration of the first-born is a reminder of the EXODUS. Jesus’ presentation at the temple has close similarities to the presentation of Samuel (1 Sam 1:24-28; 2:20-22). There were two different task to be obedient to the law, first redeem the first born (Ex 34:19-20; Num 18:16), 5 shekels required. Second, Mary’s purification (Lev 12:1-8). The sacrifice given was for a relatively poor family. Everything happens here according to the law, Mary & Joseph are faithful, devout, with no problems or excitement of any kind, yet.
Simeon, devout, righteous, counterpart to Zechariah, told by God, through the Holy Spirit “resting” on him, that he would see the Messiah before he died. Here we have a fulfillment of the prophetic word to Simeon, who then is God’s prophet about who this child is, and what this child will become. Simeon is introduced in typical biblical pattern. Simeon represents the exemplary response to Jesus that we and the world should have. This child is the fulfillment of all God has said and done in the past!
The meeting in the temple is no accident, but a carefully choreographed meeting by the Holy Spirit! This is the 3rd mention of the HS in this scene, and thus it is clear that God’s hand is carefully making all of these things happen!! Upon meeting Simeon takes the child in his arms, and breaks into song praising God. Simeon’s job is done, he can leave his post, he is witnessing what God told him to witness. He is now going in peace. He sees God’s plan unfolding in this child for salvation, revealed to the Gentiles and Israel alike. The Gentiles who were in darkness will be able to see this light, and Israel will be filled with Glory!!
Joseph & Mary are amazed, and Simeon continues with a rather strange blessing to Jesus’ parents, and specifically to Mary. Jesus will cause the great reversal in the world. He will be opposed, the inner thoughts of many will be revealed, and a sword will pierce Mary’s soul. Jesus’ words will not be comfortable for many to hear. It will be judgment upon their actions, their lives, etc. Mary will share in the pain that Jesus will bear when many will not listen to his words.
Anna, old, constantly in the temple worshiping God, fasting & prayer, counterpart to Elizabeth, and as Zechariah & Elizabeth are paired, so to Anna & Simeon. Anna exemplifies the pious widow in both Old & New Testaments. Widows are mentioned 9 times in the Gospel. We are not given Anna’s words, but it sounds like she confirms Simeon’s earlier statements.
The scene at the temple concludes with the statement that they finished everything required by the law, and then return to their hometown of Nazareth. We hear the similar words said of John, grew, became strong, additionally Jesus grew in wisdom, and the favor of God was on him. (wisdom – Sophia; grace – Charis.
2:41-52 – The Boy Jesus in the Temple
This is the only story of Jesus’ childhood in scripture. This serves as a bridge between the birth stories and the ministry of Jesus. This story shows the wisdom he is growing into. This isn’t a miracle story, and so does not really show forth Jesus’ power. It is rather restrained in that. Rather, Luke seems to be focusing upon Jesus’ connection with God, the Father, and it being a conscious connection that Jesus chooses, but he is also feeling the necessity of this choice.
Jesus’ parents are devout Jews, and go to the temple every year. If they travelled at 15 miles/day it would have taken 4-5 days to make the trip. Since Jesus was 12 he was still considered a child, at age 13 he would become man. Jesus’ parents don’t seem to be blamed for him being left behind, as we might think today. It seems that Jesus’ is blamed, certainly by Mary, but also at the end, when we are told he was obedient from that point on, with the little connotation that he wasn’t really too obedient in this story. However, the point is the Jesus is going to be doing his father’s business, and its not woodworking!! Jesus is found in the temple listening to the teachers and asking questions. Mary’s response is our response. Then Jesus provides his first words. Even as a child Jesus is perceiving an imperative in his life. He “MUST” be doing God’s will, God’s business, in God’s house. The point of this story is that Jesus’ life is going to be divinely inspired, as has been everything in his life up until now.
Jesus goes back with his parents, is obedient, and again Mary has things to “ponder” in her heart. V52 is similar to v40 in telling us he is increasing in wisdom, and grace both divine & human.
Wednesday, November 11, 2009
Wednesday, November 4, 2009
Gospel of Luke Study – Chapter 2
2:1-20 – The Birth of Jesus
Here we have the fulfillment of the second announcement by the angel Gabriel. In society first is always most important. Biblically first seems to be inferior to second, especially in relation to birth stories (Esau & Isaac). Here the birth of Jesus is told with a minimum of detail. We hear a placement within world history. Emperor Augustus & Quirinius are mentioned to fix a date and time for this birth to take place, also setting up who is in charge of the worldly realm at this time. The power of Rome is clear. When they say move, everyone moves, just like on a chess board. There is irony here also, that the moves of such a powerful government are actually exactly what is needed for the Messiah to be born in Bethlehem. Augustus was also claimed to be the good news for the world, and the divine savior of the Roman world. Here we have a dramatic contrast between worldly power, and God’s power.
Historical dating is a difficulty here though. Augustus reigned from 44/42BC – 14AD. Quirinius was governor beginning 6 AD, at which time he took a census of Judea. There is no other historical record of a worldly census, and some of the other historical records that we do have make no mention of this at this time (Josephus). Also, the Roman system of registration didn’t require returning to your homeland. Therefore, if history doesn’t help us here there must be some other reason for Luke to present this story in this way. Luke’s mention of these names does provide the contrast, and people would remember the misery that the Romans brought to Palestine.
Luke is clear in wanting to link the census with the birth of Jesus. Luke frequently wants to link the gospel story with significant historical events and rulers. It is clear that this Gospel story is going to have profound effect upon not only those who believe, but upon the worldly powers as well. Augustus was acclaimed as the “bringer of peace.” Here we begin to see Luke pitting Jesus against Augustus (this will continue), and who truly is the “bringer of peace!” Joseph and Mary are shown as those who are obeying Roman Law, they are not shirkers. The Messiah is to be born in Bethlehem, and Jesus grew up in Nazareth, this helps explain how that was possible. Matthew resolves this dilemma with the fleeing into Egypt, and the later return not to Bethlehem, but Nazareth. The census is also a good way for Luke to explain Jesus’ family lineage, and how he is descended from the house and family of David (Messiah).
Mary & Joseph are engaged, and Mary is expecting a child at this point. The announcement by Gabriel has come true. Mary is still in an unusual position, being not married and pregnant. It is clear that Mary & Jospeh have not consummated the marriage yet, thus still only engaged. Mary is pregnant through the Holy Spirit, not Joseph. Two verses then tell us the birth story. The time came, she gave birth, first-born son, wrapped in bands of cloth (typical motherly care, providing comfort for the child), laid in manger (feeding trough, not unusual for the poor), no place in inn. (what is not here?). 1st century people in Palestine didn’t keep animals in barns.
Angelic Pronouncement
The shepherds in the field are the first to hear of this event taking place. The angels come to them. Shepherding was a despised job in this day. Shepherds were thought of as dishonest who grazed their flocks on other people’s lands. They were outcasts of this society, and obviously cast out of the town, “living in the fields.”
Shepherds are in the field, then an angel appears, and the glory of the Lord shines around them, terror fills their hearts. First words from the angel? “DO NOT BE AFRAID!” Contrast the humble setting of the birth, and the humble setting of these shepherds in the field, with this rather dramatic pronouncement by the angel, and then the “multitude of the Heavenly Host!!” Here we have a fulfillment of Isaiah 9:2, “The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light; those who lived in a land of deep darkness— on them light has shined.” In this scene we have the shepherds, in actual darkness (nighttime), with the actual real light from the angel, glory of the Lord shone upon them. You also have Shepherds, considered those who were walking in darkness, not following faithfully, who have the Light of the World literally shown to them by the angels. Here is a foreshadowing of what Jesus is going to do, and even on the night of his birth he is already bringing people into the light both literally and figuratively.
The angels bring good news of great joy!! The response to the gospel is JOY!!! The announcement makes clear that this is the long awaited fulfillment of the Messiah; city of David, savior, Messiah/Christ/Lord. The shepherds receive a sign, go see the child, wrapped, lying in a manger. Jesus is the only child lying in a manger!! Then the heavens burst open, and the Shepherds must have been in awe. The song of the angels is the angelic song of the choirs of heaven, proclaiming glory to God always, and showing that God is the one who brings peace!! As instructed the shepherds go, thus the shepherds are actually redeemed already, no longer are they good for nothings, but actually dutiful servants who obey and do as they are told.
They go quickly and find everything as was told to them. They passed on to Mary and Joseph everything that took place to them, thus making them the first evangelists, telling their story. Mary treasures these words, and ponders them. This is what she did when the Angel Gabriel told her what was going to happen, and she continues to take in these words from God and ponders them. The shepherds then leave, but they leave in great joy, worshipping God. The shepherds are the premier example of what our response to Jesus really should be!! The shepherds pass on the story “as it had been told them.” This is exactly what Luke is doing. Luke may very well see himself in the Shepherd role here of passing on the Angelic pronouncement through his writing.
Contrasted in this birth story of the Messiah is with the Kings of the earth. Jesus is born in a small place, not in home, but in purely humble surroundings, and the only visitors for Luke are shepherds, despised people, who hear God’s calling. This certainly foreshadows Jesus as coming for the lowly and despised people of this world. This is the way true peace comes to earth, not with the power and majesty of earthly kings.
Here we have the fulfillment of the second announcement by the angel Gabriel. In society first is always most important. Biblically first seems to be inferior to second, especially in relation to birth stories (Esau & Isaac). Here the birth of Jesus is told with a minimum of detail. We hear a placement within world history. Emperor Augustus & Quirinius are mentioned to fix a date and time for this birth to take place, also setting up who is in charge of the worldly realm at this time. The power of Rome is clear. When they say move, everyone moves, just like on a chess board. There is irony here also, that the moves of such a powerful government are actually exactly what is needed for the Messiah to be born in Bethlehem. Augustus was also claimed to be the good news for the world, and the divine savior of the Roman world. Here we have a dramatic contrast between worldly power, and God’s power.
Historical dating is a difficulty here though. Augustus reigned from 44/42BC – 14AD. Quirinius was governor beginning 6 AD, at which time he took a census of Judea. There is no other historical record of a worldly census, and some of the other historical records that we do have make no mention of this at this time (Josephus). Also, the Roman system of registration didn’t require returning to your homeland. Therefore, if history doesn’t help us here there must be some other reason for Luke to present this story in this way. Luke’s mention of these names does provide the contrast, and people would remember the misery that the Romans brought to Palestine.
Luke is clear in wanting to link the census with the birth of Jesus. Luke frequently wants to link the gospel story with significant historical events and rulers. It is clear that this Gospel story is going to have profound effect upon not only those who believe, but upon the worldly powers as well. Augustus was acclaimed as the “bringer of peace.” Here we begin to see Luke pitting Jesus against Augustus (this will continue), and who truly is the “bringer of peace!” Joseph and Mary are shown as those who are obeying Roman Law, they are not shirkers. The Messiah is to be born in Bethlehem, and Jesus grew up in Nazareth, this helps explain how that was possible. Matthew resolves this dilemma with the fleeing into Egypt, and the later return not to Bethlehem, but Nazareth. The census is also a good way for Luke to explain Jesus’ family lineage, and how he is descended from the house and family of David (Messiah).
Mary & Joseph are engaged, and Mary is expecting a child at this point. The announcement by Gabriel has come true. Mary is still in an unusual position, being not married and pregnant. It is clear that Mary & Jospeh have not consummated the marriage yet, thus still only engaged. Mary is pregnant through the Holy Spirit, not Joseph. Two verses then tell us the birth story. The time came, she gave birth, first-born son, wrapped in bands of cloth (typical motherly care, providing comfort for the child), laid in manger (feeding trough, not unusual for the poor), no place in inn. (what is not here?). 1st century people in Palestine didn’t keep animals in barns.
Angelic Pronouncement
The shepherds in the field are the first to hear of this event taking place. The angels come to them. Shepherding was a despised job in this day. Shepherds were thought of as dishonest who grazed their flocks on other people’s lands. They were outcasts of this society, and obviously cast out of the town, “living in the fields.”
Shepherds are in the field, then an angel appears, and the glory of the Lord shines around them, terror fills their hearts. First words from the angel? “DO NOT BE AFRAID!” Contrast the humble setting of the birth, and the humble setting of these shepherds in the field, with this rather dramatic pronouncement by the angel, and then the “multitude of the Heavenly Host!!” Here we have a fulfillment of Isaiah 9:2, “The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light; those who lived in a land of deep darkness— on them light has shined.” In this scene we have the shepherds, in actual darkness (nighttime), with the actual real light from the angel, glory of the Lord shone upon them. You also have Shepherds, considered those who were walking in darkness, not following faithfully, who have the Light of the World literally shown to them by the angels. Here is a foreshadowing of what Jesus is going to do, and even on the night of his birth he is already bringing people into the light both literally and figuratively.
The angels bring good news of great joy!! The response to the gospel is JOY!!! The announcement makes clear that this is the long awaited fulfillment of the Messiah; city of David, savior, Messiah/Christ/Lord. The shepherds receive a sign, go see the child, wrapped, lying in a manger. Jesus is the only child lying in a manger!! Then the heavens burst open, and the Shepherds must have been in awe. The song of the angels is the angelic song of the choirs of heaven, proclaiming glory to God always, and showing that God is the one who brings peace!! As instructed the shepherds go, thus the shepherds are actually redeemed already, no longer are they good for nothings, but actually dutiful servants who obey and do as they are told.
They go quickly and find everything as was told to them. They passed on to Mary and Joseph everything that took place to them, thus making them the first evangelists, telling their story. Mary treasures these words, and ponders them. This is what she did when the Angel Gabriel told her what was going to happen, and she continues to take in these words from God and ponders them. The shepherds then leave, but they leave in great joy, worshipping God. The shepherds are the premier example of what our response to Jesus really should be!! The shepherds pass on the story “as it had been told them.” This is exactly what Luke is doing. Luke may very well see himself in the Shepherd role here of passing on the Angelic pronouncement through his writing.
Contrasted in this birth story of the Messiah is with the Kings of the earth. Jesus is born in a small place, not in home, but in purely humble surroundings, and the only visitors for Luke are shepherds, despised people, who hear God’s calling. This certainly foreshadows Jesus as coming for the lowly and despised people of this world. This is the way true peace comes to earth, not with the power and majesty of earthly kings.
Chapter 1 - Continued
1:39-56 – Mary’s Visit with Elizabeth
Here the two stories converge for a moment to show they are not really two, but are really part of one story, but they will separate again for the births, and then return together at Jesus’ Baptism. Following the meeting with the Angel, Mary shows her willing obedience by doing exactly as the angel instructs, she goes to see her cousin with haste! Here we are going to have a traditional older woman teaching a younger woman the ropes sharing her story, but we will also have Mary teaching Elizabeth (more unusual). She enters the house and greets Elizabeth, and immediately we have confirmation that what the angel has said is coming true. John leaps in the womb, and Elizabeth is filled with the Holy Spirit (Elizabeth here is a prophet), and speaks the Word of God. Elizabeth is the first person to call Jesus LORD, and the first woman to give beatitude. She speaks a blessing upon Mary, upon what is happening even now, and she confirms that the child that this lowly peasant woman is carrying is GREAT as she is flabbergasted that, “The mother of my Lord comes to me?” Those who are great do not visit those who are less great. It is always the other way around. Does this signify the great reversal that God is bringing about through Jesus? Jesus calls the disciples to be servants of others. The blessing of children is always the highest blessing for women in scripture, but Mary has an even greater blessing that she is blessed among women.
Elizabeth comments on John leaping for joy at the sound of Mary’s greeting. Gen 25:22-23 here the unborn twins of Rebecca “struggled/leaped” in her womb, it was a sign of that they would be at odds. Here we have a sign that John is expectantly awaiting Jesus, and that at Jesus presence John is already pointing to him even from the womb. Elizabeth knows that John is leaping for JOY! The angel told Zechariah that he would have joy, now joy comes to Elizabeth & John. Mary/Jesus bring JOY. Joy is another recurring theme throughout Luke. Finally a blessing is spoken over Mary, and proclaims her faithfulness, her obedience to God’s word an amazing and wonderful thing!! This testifies to the fact that God never fails those who are so faithful, and could possibly contrast with her husband Zechariah’s less than faithful response to the angel.
The Magnificat – (v46-55)
Here is the first of Luke’s strong, powerful songs sung as pronouncements of what God is going to do, prophetic utterance, something far greater than the scene it is in. These songs in Luke very possibly were being used in Worship already, and he weaves these pieces in to his story to lift up the significance of what is happening, and as a powerful way to shape his telling of this story. None of these prophetic songs are in the other gospels.
Mary’s song here proclaims that what God is doing is going to change the world forever. God is the Savior. It is in Jesus that the role of God as Savior becomes visible to the world, actually very sacramental. This focus on God as Savior means that nothing else can save us, and we are to look nowhere else. Mary begins by focusing on what God has done for her, and then moves to what God is doing for all people.
Similar to Hannah’s hymn of praise (1 Sam 2:1-10) as she presented Samuel to the temple for service after the Lord granted her a son. Begins by praising God, and how Mary is filled with an amazing sense of gratitude towards God. She is amazingly humble, and recognizes how incredible all of this is. Mary seems from the very beginning to really understand what is happening. Mary is the first, in a sense, to truly feel the impact of salvation for humanity. What she is experiencing is what all humanity will experience. This song proclaims what God is doing through her, and she is allowing this to take place, and is embracing God’s will for her completely. God cares for the lowly, and has even selected one for this great honor. Mary will be remembered, revered, and surely known as blessed by God. But it has nothing to do with what Mary has done; it is because God has bestowed this upon her.
Starting at v50 we begin to hear a prophetic utterance of how what God is doing is going to go global. God has mercy on those who fear God. Here are the themes of the Gospel: In this birth God is showing his strength (although in an unusual way), he is going to scatter the proud (those not fearing God), bring down the powerful, lift up the lowly, fill the hungry, sent the rich away empty. This is the great reversal; all things will be turned upside down in Jesus. This is God helping Israel, fulfilling the covenants he made with Abraham and his posterity. This is the Messiah!! God is fulfilling the covenants he made forever! In this we have a sense of Judgment as well as Salvation. Those who are not following God will not fare well. God knows our hearts!! Luke for sure wants the readers to know that God has not forgotten his promises, and God is making good on his promises through Jesus.
At this time the Roman Empire was extremely powerful, the most powerful force on earth (or so thought). These words of Luke take on even greater significance if this writing was actually composed after the fall of Jerusalem (around 70AD) as a way of saying to the people that God is doing something greater than what the Roman’s can do!!
Mary is the perfect disciple. She listens to God’s word, submits to it, and follows. This theme continues that Mary is to be a premier example of us of discipleship. Mary stay’s 3 months, probably learning about carrying a child, and seems to leave just as Elizabeth is about to give birth. However, it seems strange that she would leave to this point. Why not stay for the birth and see what you need to do??
We are Zechariah, we are called to be Mary
1:57-65 – The Birth of John the Baptist
We’ve had the two announcements by the Angel Gabriel, and the confirmation of the Angel’s announcement in the meeting of Mary & Elizabeth. The two stories diverge again, and we hear the fulfillment of the first, which gives a clue that the fulfillment of the second will follow shortly. We begin with the birth, circumcision, and naming of the child. These parents surely follow God’s law, and do everything in proper order. The fulfillment happens: a son is born, many rejoice at the birth, the name will be John (despite others who wanted a different name, God’s word is followed). As God’s word is followed in obedience (contrast with Mary’s willing obedience from the beginning) Zechariah’s curse is lifted, Zechariah while not as obedient and faithful at first turns out faithful and righteous as was stated earlier about both Zechariah & Elizabeth.
A strange occurrence in the crowd “motioning” to Zechariah, suggesting either that Zechariah was deaf as well as mute, or that maybe since the crowd is trying to go against God’s name for the child that maybe they were just struck mute and couldn’t communicate with Zechariah without motioning with their hands?? Zechariah’s head seems much clearer at this point, and he asks for a way to write what he wants to communicate. Naming falls to the father, in naming the son the father claims the son as his own. As his tongue is freed his first words are to praise God. God’s power is perceived and fear strikes the hearts of those who have witnessed this event take place. Fear is a common Lukan response to God’s power being shown. The people ponder what this man will become, since God’s power has been evident in this birth!! This pondering is similar to Mary’s pondering later, it is a “placing in their hearts,” referring to something that they want to remember and refer back to later, a significant event, even if the significance isn’t readily interpreted.
1:66-80 – The Benedictus (the first words – Blessed be the Lord God of Israel)
As Mary broke out in song when meeting Elizabeth, we have Zechariah breaking out in song here at the naming of his son, and as his tongue is freed. He is filled with the Holy Spirit, thus this is prophetic utterance of God’s word. This song can be seen as God’s answer to the question uttered by the crowd, “what will this child become?” Through v75 the song focuses on what God has done.
Starts blessing God. God has blessed the people redeeming them, fulfilling the covenant made with David and the prophets of old. God is saving his people from enemies, showing his people mercy (not deserved, but God saves anyway), because he remembers his covenants to Abraham. The purpose of this salvation, this mercy, is that we might serve God without fear (our normal response to angels), and in holiness and righteousness. Thus God is setting his people free in order that they may worship God completely.
V76 and on speak of what John is going to do that is going to set this plan in motion. John is the premier prophet of God, who is going to prepare the way, going ahead of Jesus. John is Jesus’ snowplow!! John is going to present the concept of salvation through forgiveness of sin. John is going to begin the way for this sun to shine his way into the darkness of our souls in order that we may live in peace. This imagery is a reference to Isaiah 9:2 “The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light; those who lived in a land of deep darkness— on them light has shined.; 42:6-7. In peace we will be able to worship & serve God. This reference to peace at the end is one of 14 references to peace in Luke. Peace cannot come without redemption/salvation. God is at work here bringing peace to earth – we will hear this again! The problem we will see is the when God brings peace, the world goes to war against God. Closes with John growing up, being strong in spirit, living in the wilderness, similar to Elijah & Moses, not a part of the religious authorities, until he was made public.
Here the two stories converge for a moment to show they are not really two, but are really part of one story, but they will separate again for the births, and then return together at Jesus’ Baptism. Following the meeting with the Angel, Mary shows her willing obedience by doing exactly as the angel instructs, she goes to see her cousin with haste! Here we are going to have a traditional older woman teaching a younger woman the ropes sharing her story, but we will also have Mary teaching Elizabeth (more unusual). She enters the house and greets Elizabeth, and immediately we have confirmation that what the angel has said is coming true. John leaps in the womb, and Elizabeth is filled with the Holy Spirit (Elizabeth here is a prophet), and speaks the Word of God. Elizabeth is the first person to call Jesus LORD, and the first woman to give beatitude. She speaks a blessing upon Mary, upon what is happening even now, and she confirms that the child that this lowly peasant woman is carrying is GREAT as she is flabbergasted that, “The mother of my Lord comes to me?” Those who are great do not visit those who are less great. It is always the other way around. Does this signify the great reversal that God is bringing about through Jesus? Jesus calls the disciples to be servants of others. The blessing of children is always the highest blessing for women in scripture, but Mary has an even greater blessing that she is blessed among women.
Elizabeth comments on John leaping for joy at the sound of Mary’s greeting. Gen 25:22-23 here the unborn twins of Rebecca “struggled/leaped” in her womb, it was a sign of that they would be at odds. Here we have a sign that John is expectantly awaiting Jesus, and that at Jesus presence John is already pointing to him even from the womb. Elizabeth knows that John is leaping for JOY! The angel told Zechariah that he would have joy, now joy comes to Elizabeth & John. Mary/Jesus bring JOY. Joy is another recurring theme throughout Luke. Finally a blessing is spoken over Mary, and proclaims her faithfulness, her obedience to God’s word an amazing and wonderful thing!! This testifies to the fact that God never fails those who are so faithful, and could possibly contrast with her husband Zechariah’s less than faithful response to the angel.
The Magnificat – (v46-55)
Here is the first of Luke’s strong, powerful songs sung as pronouncements of what God is going to do, prophetic utterance, something far greater than the scene it is in. These songs in Luke very possibly were being used in Worship already, and he weaves these pieces in to his story to lift up the significance of what is happening, and as a powerful way to shape his telling of this story. None of these prophetic songs are in the other gospels.
Mary’s song here proclaims that what God is doing is going to change the world forever. God is the Savior. It is in Jesus that the role of God as Savior becomes visible to the world, actually very sacramental. This focus on God as Savior means that nothing else can save us, and we are to look nowhere else. Mary begins by focusing on what God has done for her, and then moves to what God is doing for all people.
Similar to Hannah’s hymn of praise (1 Sam 2:1-10) as she presented Samuel to the temple for service after the Lord granted her a son. Begins by praising God, and how Mary is filled with an amazing sense of gratitude towards God. She is amazingly humble, and recognizes how incredible all of this is. Mary seems from the very beginning to really understand what is happening. Mary is the first, in a sense, to truly feel the impact of salvation for humanity. What she is experiencing is what all humanity will experience. This song proclaims what God is doing through her, and she is allowing this to take place, and is embracing God’s will for her completely. God cares for the lowly, and has even selected one for this great honor. Mary will be remembered, revered, and surely known as blessed by God. But it has nothing to do with what Mary has done; it is because God has bestowed this upon her.
Starting at v50 we begin to hear a prophetic utterance of how what God is doing is going to go global. God has mercy on those who fear God. Here are the themes of the Gospel: In this birth God is showing his strength (although in an unusual way), he is going to scatter the proud (those not fearing God), bring down the powerful, lift up the lowly, fill the hungry, sent the rich away empty. This is the great reversal; all things will be turned upside down in Jesus. This is God helping Israel, fulfilling the covenants he made with Abraham and his posterity. This is the Messiah!! God is fulfilling the covenants he made forever! In this we have a sense of Judgment as well as Salvation. Those who are not following God will not fare well. God knows our hearts!! Luke for sure wants the readers to know that God has not forgotten his promises, and God is making good on his promises through Jesus.
At this time the Roman Empire was extremely powerful, the most powerful force on earth (or so thought). These words of Luke take on even greater significance if this writing was actually composed after the fall of Jerusalem (around 70AD) as a way of saying to the people that God is doing something greater than what the Roman’s can do!!
Mary is the perfect disciple. She listens to God’s word, submits to it, and follows. This theme continues that Mary is to be a premier example of us of discipleship. Mary stay’s 3 months, probably learning about carrying a child, and seems to leave just as Elizabeth is about to give birth. However, it seems strange that she would leave to this point. Why not stay for the birth and see what you need to do??
We are Zechariah, we are called to be Mary
1:57-65 – The Birth of John the Baptist
We’ve had the two announcements by the Angel Gabriel, and the confirmation of the Angel’s announcement in the meeting of Mary & Elizabeth. The two stories diverge again, and we hear the fulfillment of the first, which gives a clue that the fulfillment of the second will follow shortly. We begin with the birth, circumcision, and naming of the child. These parents surely follow God’s law, and do everything in proper order. The fulfillment happens: a son is born, many rejoice at the birth, the name will be John (despite others who wanted a different name, God’s word is followed). As God’s word is followed in obedience (contrast with Mary’s willing obedience from the beginning) Zechariah’s curse is lifted, Zechariah while not as obedient and faithful at first turns out faithful and righteous as was stated earlier about both Zechariah & Elizabeth.
A strange occurrence in the crowd “motioning” to Zechariah, suggesting either that Zechariah was deaf as well as mute, or that maybe since the crowd is trying to go against God’s name for the child that maybe they were just struck mute and couldn’t communicate with Zechariah without motioning with their hands?? Zechariah’s head seems much clearer at this point, and he asks for a way to write what he wants to communicate. Naming falls to the father, in naming the son the father claims the son as his own. As his tongue is freed his first words are to praise God. God’s power is perceived and fear strikes the hearts of those who have witnessed this event take place. Fear is a common Lukan response to God’s power being shown. The people ponder what this man will become, since God’s power has been evident in this birth!! This pondering is similar to Mary’s pondering later, it is a “placing in their hearts,” referring to something that they want to remember and refer back to later, a significant event, even if the significance isn’t readily interpreted.
1:66-80 – The Benedictus (the first words – Blessed be the Lord God of Israel)
As Mary broke out in song when meeting Elizabeth, we have Zechariah breaking out in song here at the naming of his son, and as his tongue is freed. He is filled with the Holy Spirit, thus this is prophetic utterance of God’s word. This song can be seen as God’s answer to the question uttered by the crowd, “what will this child become?” Through v75 the song focuses on what God has done.
Starts blessing God. God has blessed the people redeeming them, fulfilling the covenant made with David and the prophets of old. God is saving his people from enemies, showing his people mercy (not deserved, but God saves anyway), because he remembers his covenants to Abraham. The purpose of this salvation, this mercy, is that we might serve God without fear (our normal response to angels), and in holiness and righteousness. Thus God is setting his people free in order that they may worship God completely.
V76 and on speak of what John is going to do that is going to set this plan in motion. John is the premier prophet of God, who is going to prepare the way, going ahead of Jesus. John is Jesus’ snowplow!! John is going to present the concept of salvation through forgiveness of sin. John is going to begin the way for this sun to shine his way into the darkness of our souls in order that we may live in peace. This imagery is a reference to Isaiah 9:2 “The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light; those who lived in a land of deep darkness— on them light has shined.; 42:6-7. In peace we will be able to worship & serve God. This reference to peace at the end is one of 14 references to peace in Luke. Peace cannot come without redemption/salvation. God is at work here bringing peace to earth – we will hear this again! The problem we will see is the when God brings peace, the world goes to war against God. Closes with John growing up, being strong in spirit, living in the wilderness, similar to Elijah & Moses, not a part of the religious authorities, until he was made public.
Wednesday, October 28, 2009
Gospel of Luke Study – Chapter 1
The Reverend Jeffrey G. Bohan, Senior Pastor
St. Luke Lutheran Church – Bloomsburg, PA
1:1-4 – The Prologue (Introduction) – This is what tells us the purpose for this writing, and gives us some background on the author, what his reasons are, etc. Scholars call this one of the most literarily stylized sentences of the New Testament, rivaled only by John 1. This prologue is sophisticated in its day, and would appeal to a “secular” audience that is used to the conventional historical writing of the day.
1. Luke is concerned about the “events that have been fulfilled among us,” this is the subject matter.
2. We realize that there are multiple accounts of the things this book is going to be about, and the author knows of them, has researched them, and is using them in creating this “orderly account.”
3. These writers (including Luke) are dependent upon those who were “eyewitnesses.” This is key to any history of the day; to be thought to be accurate it had to come from “eyewitnesses.” This shows the connection that Luke is making from Jesus, to eyewitnesses, to Luke’s writing. Thus the tradition of the Christian Church from Jesus to eyewitnesses to gospel to disciples down through the ages is intact. We will see this same type of connection made in the geneology of Jesus (chapter 3).
4. This writing is for Theophilus in order that he may know the truth about the things he has already been instructed about. Is this a putting into writing the exact things that were taught to Theophilus? Is this an orderly account to correct some things Theophilus has been taught?? Not sure, but it is clear that Theophilus is a benefactor of some sort, higher class (ie. Most excellent), and deserving of instruction by the author, and needing to have the “truth” written down in an orderly form.
The next two stories are really to be compared together to notice the similarities, but then to realize the very apparent differences between them. John & Jesus are both very very important figures, but it is obvious when these stories are compared what place each has in the story being told.
1:5-25 – The Annunciation (announcing) of the Birth of John the Baptist
This story starts with an upstanding priestly couple, Zechariah (priestly order of Abijah), and Elizabeth (descendent of Aaron, Moses’ brother and right hand man!!), and we hear some pretty incredible things about them: They are righteous before God, living blamelessly, keeping the commandments (not many can say this!!) Sadly no children, Elizabeth was barren. This is the biblical clue for WAKE UP GOD IS GOING TO DO SOMETHING HERE!!!!! Remember Abraham & Sarah from Old Testament, Luke actually takes some quotes from there. Zechariah and Elizabeth are the Abraham & Sarah of this story; an old childless couple. These two have every sign of ones who are faithful, obedient, and ready for God to appear at any moment. Are they??
As a priest Zechariah is to take care of the temple, and every once in a while one is chosen to go into the sanctuary of the Lord (where God dwells) to offer incense, etc. Zechariah gets the opportunity (marked by God) this time. The priests who cast lots were the ones who had never had the opportunity before, and so since Zechariah is quite old, he has been waiting his whole life to enter this part of the temple. He had never been in there before! Now, remember, this is the place where God dwells!! A priest should expect to see God!! Yet, when Zechariah sees the angel Gabriel he is terrified (which is always the normal reaction to an angel), though maybe as a priest he should have at least expected it (compare with Mary later). Every time an angel appears the first words are always, “Don’t be afraid!!” They expect to be an intrusion into what we would normally expect.
Gabriel then launches into his story. Their prayer is answered by God, they will have a son, and continues with everything about this son. Parenting instructions: You will name him John; You will rejoice; He will be great; Parenting instructions: No strong drink; He will be filled with the Holy Spirit (important for Luke throughout Gospel, watch for more from the HS); he will turn many back to God; he will be like Elijah; he will turn the disobedient into righteous; for the purpose of preparing the way! John is going to enter into the illustrious history of the prophets who were chosen very young: Samuel, Elijah, Elisha, David.
Zechariah’s question is Abraham’s question from the OT actually quoted by Luke, however, Zechariah should know the story pretty well!! Gabriel’s proof is who he is, and that he stands in God’s presence, and is bringing God’s word!!! Because Zechariah didn’t believe he will be mute, unable to speak. When Zechariah finally comes out he can’t speak, and the crowd knows he has seen a vision. He is gesturing wildly because he can’t speak!! After Zechariah’s service he returns home, and they conceive a child. Elizabeth’s seclusion allows for Mary not knowing about this until the angel appears to Mary in the next scene.
1:26-38 – The Annunciation (announcing) of the Birth of Jesus
Contrast this meeting by the angel Gabriel with the previous one. The angel comes to an unknown woman, of no status, not a priest. There is no OT biblical equivalent to a young unmarried woman receiving the joyous news that she is going to have a baby. Mary is engaged to Joseph who is from the house of David. At age 12 a woman’s vow was considered valid, but an age is not given, so we can surmise that she is at least 12, possibly a little older. This meeting doesn’t happen in a special religious place (like the temple), but in a small remote village, Nazareth. We aren’t given any information about Mary’s family yet, and so Luke seems to be portraying her as an unknown to us. She is meant to be a surprise, biblically, for us. God is doing something new. The obstacle that God needed to overcome in John’s birth is that Zechariah & Elizabeth are old, which is a traditional OT birth miracle. The obstacle in Jesus’ conception & birth is that Mary is not married, this is an even great miracle birth by a virgin!!
Gabriel greets Mary in a very special way! Though Mary isn’t “terrified” like Zechariah, only “perplexed.” But then as Mary is perplexed we hear the traditional angelic words, “Do not be afraid!”
Both John & Jesus will be great, but Jesus will also be “Son of the Most High.” Jesus will be given the throne of David, and he will rule forever. Here is the ultimate in Kingship!! However, in Luke the traditional king is not what Jesus is, in fact, Jesus never calls himself a King, rather others accuse him of being a king, and for this he is executed. Throughout Gabriel’s speech he is emphasizing God’s action, this is what God is doing. God has chosen Mary for this special purpose. The angel doesn’t seem to mind Mary’s question, though it seems similar to Zechariah’s. It is possible that Zechariah was looking for some proof, while Mary is just wondering how it is going to happen. The angel then describes the incredible process, certainly very unusual (different from Zechariah & Elizabeth, another reason why Mary’s question makes more sense. The explanation is the Holy Spirit, “will come upon you.” This will come up again in the book of Acts as the Holy Spirit rests on the believers. And the Holy Spirit will “overshadow” Mary. This kind of overshadowing is similar to the description of God’s presence in the tent in Exodus 40:35 “Moses was not able to enter the tent of meeting because the cloud settled upon it, and the glory of the LORD filled the tabernacle.” This child will by Holy!
For proof the angel tells Mary of Elizabeth’s conception of a child, and she is well enough along for Mary to be able to see for herself. We now learn that Mary & Elizabeth are relatives. “Nothing will be impossible with God!!” Important statement here, as it continues the focus not on Mary, or Elizabeth, or Zechariah, but the focus is on what God is doing here!! Finally, the scene ends with Mary’s faithful pronouncement that she will be God’s pawn, and God can move her around as He sees fit. She is linked to the OT Hannah in her willing obedience (1 Sam 1:18).
The Reverend Jeffrey G. Bohan, Senior Pastor
St. Luke Lutheran Church – Bloomsburg, PA
1:1-4 – The Prologue (Introduction) – This is what tells us the purpose for this writing, and gives us some background on the author, what his reasons are, etc. Scholars call this one of the most literarily stylized sentences of the New Testament, rivaled only by John 1. This prologue is sophisticated in its day, and would appeal to a “secular” audience that is used to the conventional historical writing of the day.
1. Luke is concerned about the “events that have been fulfilled among us,” this is the subject matter.
2. We realize that there are multiple accounts of the things this book is going to be about, and the author knows of them, has researched them, and is using them in creating this “orderly account.”
3. These writers (including Luke) are dependent upon those who were “eyewitnesses.” This is key to any history of the day; to be thought to be accurate it had to come from “eyewitnesses.” This shows the connection that Luke is making from Jesus, to eyewitnesses, to Luke’s writing. Thus the tradition of the Christian Church from Jesus to eyewitnesses to gospel to disciples down through the ages is intact. We will see this same type of connection made in the geneology of Jesus (chapter 3).
4. This writing is for Theophilus in order that he may know the truth about the things he has already been instructed about. Is this a putting into writing the exact things that were taught to Theophilus? Is this an orderly account to correct some things Theophilus has been taught?? Not sure, but it is clear that Theophilus is a benefactor of some sort, higher class (ie. Most excellent), and deserving of instruction by the author, and needing to have the “truth” written down in an orderly form.
The next two stories are really to be compared together to notice the similarities, but then to realize the very apparent differences between them. John & Jesus are both very very important figures, but it is obvious when these stories are compared what place each has in the story being told.
1:5-25 – The Annunciation (announcing) of the Birth of John the Baptist
This story starts with an upstanding priestly couple, Zechariah (priestly order of Abijah), and Elizabeth (descendent of Aaron, Moses’ brother and right hand man!!), and we hear some pretty incredible things about them: They are righteous before God, living blamelessly, keeping the commandments (not many can say this!!) Sadly no children, Elizabeth was barren. This is the biblical clue for WAKE UP GOD IS GOING TO DO SOMETHING HERE!!!!! Remember Abraham & Sarah from Old Testament, Luke actually takes some quotes from there. Zechariah and Elizabeth are the Abraham & Sarah of this story; an old childless couple. These two have every sign of ones who are faithful, obedient, and ready for God to appear at any moment. Are they??
As a priest Zechariah is to take care of the temple, and every once in a while one is chosen to go into the sanctuary of the Lord (where God dwells) to offer incense, etc. Zechariah gets the opportunity (marked by God) this time. The priests who cast lots were the ones who had never had the opportunity before, and so since Zechariah is quite old, he has been waiting his whole life to enter this part of the temple. He had never been in there before! Now, remember, this is the place where God dwells!! A priest should expect to see God!! Yet, when Zechariah sees the angel Gabriel he is terrified (which is always the normal reaction to an angel), though maybe as a priest he should have at least expected it (compare with Mary later). Every time an angel appears the first words are always, “Don’t be afraid!!” They expect to be an intrusion into what we would normally expect.
Gabriel then launches into his story. Their prayer is answered by God, they will have a son, and continues with everything about this son. Parenting instructions: You will name him John; You will rejoice; He will be great; Parenting instructions: No strong drink; He will be filled with the Holy Spirit (important for Luke throughout Gospel, watch for more from the HS); he will turn many back to God; he will be like Elijah; he will turn the disobedient into righteous; for the purpose of preparing the way! John is going to enter into the illustrious history of the prophets who were chosen very young: Samuel, Elijah, Elisha, David.
Zechariah’s question is Abraham’s question from the OT actually quoted by Luke, however, Zechariah should know the story pretty well!! Gabriel’s proof is who he is, and that he stands in God’s presence, and is bringing God’s word!!! Because Zechariah didn’t believe he will be mute, unable to speak. When Zechariah finally comes out he can’t speak, and the crowd knows he has seen a vision. He is gesturing wildly because he can’t speak!! After Zechariah’s service he returns home, and they conceive a child. Elizabeth’s seclusion allows for Mary not knowing about this until the angel appears to Mary in the next scene.
1:26-38 – The Annunciation (announcing) of the Birth of Jesus
Contrast this meeting by the angel Gabriel with the previous one. The angel comes to an unknown woman, of no status, not a priest. There is no OT biblical equivalent to a young unmarried woman receiving the joyous news that she is going to have a baby. Mary is engaged to Joseph who is from the house of David. At age 12 a woman’s vow was considered valid, but an age is not given, so we can surmise that she is at least 12, possibly a little older. This meeting doesn’t happen in a special religious place (like the temple), but in a small remote village, Nazareth. We aren’t given any information about Mary’s family yet, and so Luke seems to be portraying her as an unknown to us. She is meant to be a surprise, biblically, for us. God is doing something new. The obstacle that God needed to overcome in John’s birth is that Zechariah & Elizabeth are old, which is a traditional OT birth miracle. The obstacle in Jesus’ conception & birth is that Mary is not married, this is an even great miracle birth by a virgin!!
Gabriel greets Mary in a very special way! Though Mary isn’t “terrified” like Zechariah, only “perplexed.” But then as Mary is perplexed we hear the traditional angelic words, “Do not be afraid!”
Both John & Jesus will be great, but Jesus will also be “Son of the Most High.” Jesus will be given the throne of David, and he will rule forever. Here is the ultimate in Kingship!! However, in Luke the traditional king is not what Jesus is, in fact, Jesus never calls himself a King, rather others accuse him of being a king, and for this he is executed. Throughout Gabriel’s speech he is emphasizing God’s action, this is what God is doing. God has chosen Mary for this special purpose. The angel doesn’t seem to mind Mary’s question, though it seems similar to Zechariah’s. It is possible that Zechariah was looking for some proof, while Mary is just wondering how it is going to happen. The angel then describes the incredible process, certainly very unusual (different from Zechariah & Elizabeth, another reason why Mary’s question makes more sense. The explanation is the Holy Spirit, “will come upon you.” This will come up again in the book of Acts as the Holy Spirit rests on the believers. And the Holy Spirit will “overshadow” Mary. This kind of overshadowing is similar to the description of God’s presence in the tent in Exodus 40:35 “Moses was not able to enter the tent of meeting because the cloud settled upon it, and the glory of the LORD filled the tabernacle.” This child will by Holy!
For proof the angel tells Mary of Elizabeth’s conception of a child, and she is well enough along for Mary to be able to see for herself. We now learn that Mary & Elizabeth are relatives. “Nothing will be impossible with God!!” Important statement here, as it continues the focus not on Mary, or Elizabeth, or Zechariah, but the focus is on what God is doing here!! Finally, the scene ends with Mary’s faithful pronouncement that she will be God’s pawn, and God can move her around as He sees fit. She is linked to the OT Hannah in her willing obedience (1 Sam 1:18).
Tuesday, October 27, 2009
Introduction to Study of the Gospel of Luke
Gospel of Luke Study - Introduction
The Reverend Jeffrey G. Bohan, Senior Pastor - St. Luke Lutheran Church – Bloomsburg, PA
Anonymous author
The Gospel of Luke was written by an author who never tells us his name within the gospel writing itself. The name of Luke was attached to this gospel early on, however. We do have in the earliest manuscript of this book dated to 175-225AD to which the name the Gospel According to Luke is attached, and in several other places there is mention to such a possibility that it was Luke who wrote the book.
Luke is named in several other New Testament books:
Philemon 24 - Epaphras, my fellow-prisoner in Christ Jesus, sends greetings to you,* 24and so do Mark, Aristarchus, Demas, and Luke, my fellow-workers.
Colossians 4:14 - 13For I testify for him that he has worked hard for you and for those in Laodicea and in Hierapolis. 14Luke, the beloved physician, and Demas greet you.
2 Timothy 4:11 - 11Only Luke is with me. Get Mark and bring him with you, for he is useful in my ministry.
Luke in Tradition
Irenaeus (c130-200), bishop of Lyon, wrote about “Luke” who was Paul’s companion, and who recorded a book of the Gospel preached by him. This sounds like Luke is the scribe writing down what Paul is preaching.
Tertullian (c150-225) writes of Luke as one who has followed the apostles, thus showing that Luke follows the unbroken chain from Jesus to the apostles to the writer of the Gospel of Luke.
It is very possible from the above that Luke did indeed write this gospel, and that Luke was a companion with Paul, and possibly even Paul’s scribe. However, not much more is known about the author, and it is probably worth noting that the author wasn’t interested in being known, but rather sharing the content of the Gospel about Jesus!! Thus, just from the absence of this information we have a beginning of Luke’s theology, and a focus for his story not on himself, but rather on Jesus!!
Comparison of the Gospel of Luke to Matthew and Mark
These three gospels have been called “synoptic” gospels by scholars. Synoptic means “seeing together” and basically is talking about how similar these three Gospel stories are to each other. They seem to follow along the same general path, with only a few adjustments that are important to each one telling the story of Jesus in their own special way. In reading the Gospel of John, you will notice how different in character the writing is to these other three.
In comparing the gospels you will notice that there are some sections of each of these gospels that are strikingly similar if not exactly the same, there are sections of Luke & Matthew that are strikingly different from each other, and not at all in Mark, and you would notice that most of the Gospel of Mark is contained in both Matthew & Luke. This leads scholars to conclude that Matthew and Luke both probably used the Gospel of Mark to create their gospels, as well as a source that was common to both of them which scholars call “Q,” and that both Matthew and Luke had sources for material that are unique to their Gospel.
Luke from the Gospel Writing
- Luke is a skilled writer, and a master storyteller, and is able to weave the elements of the story into a complex story from beginning to end. He provides a structure for the entire Gospel, but also is able to provide structure for each story contained in the larger story.
- Luke has a deep knowledge of the Old Testament; and also knows the Greek world, and how to connect the two together.
- Luke was most probably in the artisan class (physicians are included here), who thus served the elite (Theophilus) to whom he is writing for.
Outline of the Gospel of Luke
Chapter 1 -2 – Prologue and Infancy Stories
Chapter 3 – 4:13 – Preparation for Jesus’ Ministry
Chapter 4:14 -9:50 – Jesus’ Ministry in Galilee
Chapter 9:51-19:27 – Jesus’ Journey to Jerusalem
Chapter 19:28-21:38 – Jesus’ Ministry in Jerusalem
Chapter 22-24 – Jesus’ Death (Passion) & Resurrrection
Themes running through the Book
Kingdom of God – how this is breaking into our world; banquet; eating; healing; good news to the poor; new sense of Kingdom, not what we normally think of as a Kingdom.
Wealth & Poverty – blessings of poverty and the dangers of wealth
Prophet’s Voices – Regular people being filled with the Holy Spirit and speaking words from God; these are the “good guys” in the story; connects with ACTS, and with us today as we follow Jesus God uses us as prophets speaking & doing by being filled with the Holy Spirit!
Repentance & Forgiveness = preaching the gospel/good news; disciples are required to forgive. “Repentance is Luke’s model for how ones begins discipleship.”(Vinson)
Salvation for all alike – Jesus breaks down all prejudice and eats with all who are labeled “sinners” by the religious elite.
Women – are visible in this gospel. They are very important, and play important roles.
Apostles (the 12 chosen ones), Disciples (70+ others that follow), Crowds (wishy-washy group that hangs around), & Enemies (Pharisees, Scribes, Chief Priests, Elders) – four groups that spend a lot of time around Jesus.
Identity of Jesus running through the Book
Son of God – used 6 times (Angel Gabriel, the devil 2x, demons 2x, question from “enemies”)
Prophet – one greater than the prophets. Fulfillment of the prophets.
Lord – used in various ways from the simple meaning of “sir” all the way to meaning Jesus is LORD of heaven and earth.
Messiah/Christ – “anointed one”; connects to kingship whoever is the Lord’s anointed.
Son of Man – how Jesus refers to himself most often in Luke; sometimes replaces “I”. Links Jesus’ ministry, his death, and the future judgment. What is our response to this “son of man”?
Savior - of the synoptics this appears only in Luke (2x) in the infancy narrative; but in a variety of forms links this idea of salvation in Jesus throughout the gospel.
The Reverend Jeffrey G. Bohan, Senior Pastor - St. Luke Lutheran Church – Bloomsburg, PA
Anonymous author
The Gospel of Luke was written by an author who never tells us his name within the gospel writing itself. The name of Luke was attached to this gospel early on, however. We do have in the earliest manuscript of this book dated to 175-225AD to which the name the Gospel According to Luke is attached, and in several other places there is mention to such a possibility that it was Luke who wrote the book.
Luke is named in several other New Testament books:
Philemon 24 - Epaphras, my fellow-prisoner in Christ Jesus, sends greetings to you,* 24and so do Mark, Aristarchus, Demas, and Luke, my fellow-workers.
Colossians 4:14 - 13For I testify for him that he has worked hard for you and for those in Laodicea and in Hierapolis. 14Luke, the beloved physician, and Demas greet you.
2 Timothy 4:11 - 11Only Luke is with me. Get Mark and bring him with you, for he is useful in my ministry.
Luke in Tradition
Irenaeus (c130-200), bishop of Lyon, wrote about “Luke” who was Paul’s companion, and who recorded a book of the Gospel preached by him. This sounds like Luke is the scribe writing down what Paul is preaching.
Tertullian (c150-225) writes of Luke as one who has followed the apostles, thus showing that Luke follows the unbroken chain from Jesus to the apostles to the writer of the Gospel of Luke.
It is very possible from the above that Luke did indeed write this gospel, and that Luke was a companion with Paul, and possibly even Paul’s scribe. However, not much more is known about the author, and it is probably worth noting that the author wasn’t interested in being known, but rather sharing the content of the Gospel about Jesus!! Thus, just from the absence of this information we have a beginning of Luke’s theology, and a focus for his story not on himself, but rather on Jesus!!
Comparison of the Gospel of Luke to Matthew and Mark
These three gospels have been called “synoptic” gospels by scholars. Synoptic means “seeing together” and basically is talking about how similar these three Gospel stories are to each other. They seem to follow along the same general path, with only a few adjustments that are important to each one telling the story of Jesus in their own special way. In reading the Gospel of John, you will notice how different in character the writing is to these other three.
In comparing the gospels you will notice that there are some sections of each of these gospels that are strikingly similar if not exactly the same, there are sections of Luke & Matthew that are strikingly different from each other, and not at all in Mark, and you would notice that most of the Gospel of Mark is contained in both Matthew & Luke. This leads scholars to conclude that Matthew and Luke both probably used the Gospel of Mark to create their gospels, as well as a source that was common to both of them which scholars call “Q,” and that both Matthew and Luke had sources for material that are unique to their Gospel.
Luke from the Gospel Writing
- Luke is a skilled writer, and a master storyteller, and is able to weave the elements of the story into a complex story from beginning to end. He provides a structure for the entire Gospel, but also is able to provide structure for each story contained in the larger story.
- Luke has a deep knowledge of the Old Testament; and also knows the Greek world, and how to connect the two together.
- Luke was most probably in the artisan class (physicians are included here), who thus served the elite (Theophilus) to whom he is writing for.
Outline of the Gospel of Luke
Chapter 1 -2 – Prologue and Infancy Stories
Chapter 3 – 4:13 – Preparation for Jesus’ Ministry
Chapter 4:14 -9:50 – Jesus’ Ministry in Galilee
Chapter 9:51-19:27 – Jesus’ Journey to Jerusalem
Chapter 19:28-21:38 – Jesus’ Ministry in Jerusalem
Chapter 22-24 – Jesus’ Death (Passion) & Resurrrection
Themes running through the Book
Kingdom of God – how this is breaking into our world; banquet; eating; healing; good news to the poor; new sense of Kingdom, not what we normally think of as a Kingdom.
Wealth & Poverty – blessings of poverty and the dangers of wealth
Prophet’s Voices – Regular people being filled with the Holy Spirit and speaking words from God; these are the “good guys” in the story; connects with ACTS, and with us today as we follow Jesus God uses us as prophets speaking & doing by being filled with the Holy Spirit!
Repentance & Forgiveness = preaching the gospel/good news; disciples are required to forgive. “Repentance is Luke’s model for how ones begins discipleship.”(Vinson)
Salvation for all alike – Jesus breaks down all prejudice and eats with all who are labeled “sinners” by the religious elite.
Women – are visible in this gospel. They are very important, and play important roles.
Apostles (the 12 chosen ones), Disciples (70+ others that follow), Crowds (wishy-washy group that hangs around), & Enemies (Pharisees, Scribes, Chief Priests, Elders) – four groups that spend a lot of time around Jesus.
Identity of Jesus running through the Book
Son of God – used 6 times (Angel Gabriel, the devil 2x, demons 2x, question from “enemies”)
Prophet – one greater than the prophets. Fulfillment of the prophets.
Lord – used in various ways from the simple meaning of “sir” all the way to meaning Jesus is LORD of heaven and earth.
Messiah/Christ – “anointed one”; connects to kingship whoever is the Lord’s anointed.
Son of Man – how Jesus refers to himself most often in Luke; sometimes replaces “I”. Links Jesus’ ministry, his death, and the future judgment. What is our response to this “son of man”?
Savior - of the synoptics this appears only in Luke (2x) in the infancy narrative; but in a variety of forms links this idea of salvation in Jesus throughout the gospel.
Friday, October 23, 2009
Upcoming Bible Study - Gospel of Luke
We will be starting a long-term Bible Study on the Gospel of Luke. We will be looking at a chapter a week starting on Wednesday Oct 28th @ 6:20pm-7:00pm, and we will have the same Bible Study each week on Thursday morning at 11:00am-12:00pm. My hope is to post the information that I will be sharing with the Bible Study at least by Wednesday sometime, and even if you cannot make the actual Bible Studies at church you can follow along at home through this blog!! This is my first time attempting a blog so we will see how it goes!!
Pr. Jeff
Pr. Jeff
Thursday, October 15, 2009
Welcome
Welcome to St. Luke's new blog! Our plan is to post information here regarding upcoming events, as well as post Bible study discussions. Visit this page often!
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