The Story of Jesus Jesus' Biography in the Gospel of Luke (Lesson 24)
Introduction:
1. In 2 Peter 3:18 we are instructed to grow in the knowledge of Christ. 2. Jesus revealed the key to accomplishing this growth in John 5:39. 3. Jesus' biography is found in the Gospels -- Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John. 4. A general knowledge of these books is helpful as we study them. 5. This lesson is a study of the Gospel of Luke.
Discussion:
I. GENERAL INFORMATION ABOUT JESUS' BIOGRAPHY BY LUKE
A. Concerning the writer's identity, Luke: 1. was a fellow laborer of Paul (Philemon 24) 2. was "the beloved physician" (Colossians 4:14) 3. was with Paul near the end of his life (2 Timothy 4:11). B. The Gospel of Luke seems to have been written primarily for the Greeks. 1. The Lord's genealogy is traced to Adam, the common ancestor of Jews and Gentiles (3:23-38). 2. Greek culture stressed matters such as mental, physical, spiritual, and social development [Luke showed how Jesus grew in these areas -- 2:52]. 3. Greeks also considered virtues such as compassion to be very important [Jesus often demonstrated His compassion through His miracles -- 6:17-19; 7:11-16]. C. Luke's purpose for writing is revealed in 1:1-4.
II. OUTLINE
A. (1:1-4) Introduction B. (1:5-80) The birth narrative of John the Baptist C. (ch.2) Birth and childhood of Jesus D. (ch.3-4:13) Baptism, genealogy, and temptation of Jesus E. (4:14-9:50) Jesus' early ministry F. (9:51-19:27) The journey to Jerusalem G. (19:28-ch.23) The last week and crucifixion of Jesus H. (ch.24) The resurrection, appearances, and ascension
III. IMPORTANT POINTS OF INFORMATION REVEALED IN LUKE
A. God considers the unborn to be living children. 1. John was called a "babe" while he was in his mother's womb (1:39-44). 2. Jesus was referred to as a "babe" after He was born (2:12). 3. The same word is also translated "infants" (18:15). B. Jesus prayed often. 1. He prayed at His baptism (3:21). 2. He prayed alone (5:16; 9:18). 3. He prayed all night before He chose the apostles (6:12). 4. He prayed at the transfiguration (9:28-29). 5. He had prayed before His disciples asked Him to teach them to pray (11:1). 6. He prayed for Peter (22:31-32). 7. He prayed before His crucifixion (22:39-44). 8. He prayed on the cross (23:34). 9. He prayed as He died (23:46). C. Jesus teaches His followers to pray persistently (11:9-10; 18:1-8). D. Jesus strongly warns against "covetousness" (12:13-21). E. Jesus will not accept excuses from those who fail to do His will (14:15-24). F. Gratitude for what Jesus has done should motivate His followers to serve Him (17:11-19).
