The Gospel of Luke: the Savior of all
Luke, a physician and companion of Paul, is the only non-Jewish author in the New Testament. He announces his method from the first line: to examine everything "accurately," after inquiring of the eyewitnesses, to write an orderly account. The result: the longest, most documented gospel.
Its golden thread is compassion: Jesus lifts up women, the poor, the sick, the outcast — and the most beloved parables are found only here: the good Samaritan, the prodigal son, the Pharisee and the tax collector. The gospel of salvation offered to everyone, without exception.
Frequently asked questions about Luke
Who was Luke?
A physician (Colossians 4:14), traveling companion of Paul, author of the gospel bearing his name and of the Acts of the Apostles — together more than a quarter of the New Testament.
What makes Luke unique?
Its exclusive accounts: the annunciation, the manger and the shepherds, the good Samaritan, the prodigal son, Zacchaeus, the pardoned thief on the cross. And its constant attention to the small, to women and to foreigners.
Who was Luke writing to?
To "most excellent Theophilus" (Luke 1:3), probably a Greco-Roman notable, and through him to all non-Jews: Luke demonstrates that Jesus is the Savior of the whole world, not of one people.