Luke 1:1-4
1 Many have undertaken to draw up an account of the things that have been fulfilled among us,
2 just as they were handed down to us by those who from the first were eyewitnesses and servants of the word.
3 With this in mind, since I myself have carefully investigated everything from the beginning, I too decided to write an orderly account for you, most excellent Theophilus,
4 so that you may know the certainty of the things you have been taught.
Luke 1:1-4: Verse-by-Verse Analysis
Verse 1: “Many have undertaken to draw up an account of the things that have been fulfilled among us,”
Luke begins by acknowledging that others have written about the events he is about to describe. This shows the importance and widespread interest in these events. The phrase “things that have been fulfilled” indicates that these events were prophesied and have now come to pass.
Verse 2: “just as they were handed down to us by those who from the first were eyewitnesses and servants of the word.”
Luke emphasizes the reliability of his sources. He mentions that the accounts were handed down by eyewitnesses. These were people who directly experienced the events. They were also “servants of the word,” meaning they were dedicated to spreading the teachings of Jesus.
Verse 3: “With this in mind, since I myself have carefully investigated everything from the beginning, I too decided to write an orderly account for you, most excellent Theophilus,”
Luke explains his methodology. He has carefully investigated everything. He aims to provide an orderly account. This suggests a structured and well-researched narrative. He addresses his work to Theophilus, who is likely a person of high status, as indicated by the title “most excellent.”
Verse 4: “so that you may know the certainty of the things you have been taught.”
The purpose of Luke’s writing is to provide certainty. He wants Theophilus to be confident in the teachings he has received. This underscores the importance of a well-documented and reliable account of events.