Journal Luke 1 (all references are from the ESV; changes in punctuation are mine)
Scripture: “In as much as many have undertaken to compile a narrative of the things that have been accomplished among us, just as those who from the beginning were eyewitnesses and ministers of the word have delivered them to us, it seemed good to me also (having followed all things closely for some time past) to write an orderly account for you, most excellent Theophilus, that you many have certainty concerning the things you have been taught.”
Luke 1:1-4
Observation: Why would Luke write Luke? This foreword implies that Luke isn’t the first to write about Jesus. It does insinuate that he wants to write something that:
- Compiles a narrative, that is
- Orderly, and
- Accountable (systematic)
- Based on long time observations
so that Theophilus may have CERTAINTY of the things he has been taught.
Analysis: What kind of guy was Luke?
A learned man by all accounts I have read. A doctor, a historian. Someone who want to “get the facts” out there for his friend to read. A guy taking great pains and time to get it right (“having followed all things closely for some time past”). According to Wikipedia, 85 CE (approximately 50 years after the Crucifixion).
50 years; 5 decades. That is about how long it has been since I vowed allegiance to Christ—and about the same as I am starting to put it all together, “…accurately dividing the Word of Truth…”, bit by bit, an “orderly account…”
My wife is my test subject. She gets to hear all my efforts to be wise in the ways of the Word; adhering to the Gospel first, then applications to life and the heart, with the end result/objective to walk worthy of the Gospel in all respects.
Do Christians regularly go through a “self-examination”, presented to the Holy Spirit, to see if their mind needs to be straightened out on certain subjects? I do, and that is not “polishing my halo.”
Do I cherish the Word so much that I study, read, and talk about what I think with other brothers? Not enough, to my shame, not enough—and it makes me despondent.
If this is read, think about it some…
Prayer: Father, it has been a long time, 6 months or so, since I last offered up something for posting. I have put myself on sporadic missions in your Word. I have given up on being a faithful writer—but now am trying to get back into the saddle.
Forrest presented “getting into the Wonder of Christ” in a 1:28 moment a number of days ago—a timely word.
Help me gaze out my window and see, feel, and think about your Wonders again, including your Word. AMEN
Rick Sutton