In the name of God the Father, Christ Jesus His Son and the Holy Spirit, One True God. Amen
Dear brothers and sisters in Christ Jesus
Table of Contents
Introduction
On October 18, the Orthodox Churches and the Roman Catholic Church commemorates the life of St. Luke the Evangelist – one of the four ascribed authors of canonical gospels. The Early Church Fathers ascribe to St. Luke the authorship of both the Gospel of St. Luke and the Acts of the Apostles. Saint Luke is recognized as one of the four Evangelists, alongside Matthew, Mark, and John. His portrayal of the life and teachings of Jesus Christ in the Gospel of Luke and the Acts of the Apostles makes him a significant figure in early Christian literature.
The New Testament mentions Luke briefly a few times, and the St. Paul’s Letter to the Colossians refers to him as a physician (from Greek for ‘one who heals’); thus he is thought to have been both a physician and a disciple of Paul.
Life and Ministry
Many scholars believe that Luke was born of a Greek family in the city of Antioch in ancient Syria. While it has been widely accepted that the theology of Luke–Acts points to a gentile Christian writing for a gentile audience, some have concluded that it is more plausible that Luke–Acts is directed to a community made up of both Jewish and gentile Christians since there is stress on the scriptural roots of the gentile mission (see the use of Isaiah 49:6 in Luke–Acts).
Whether Luke was a Jew or gentile, or something in between, it is clear from the quality of the Greek language used in Luke-Acts that the author, held in Christian tradition to be Luke, was one of the most highly educated of the authors of the New Testament. The author’s conscious and intentional allusions and references to, and quotations of, ancient Classical and Hellenistic Greek authors, such as Homer, Aesop, Epimenides, Euripides, Plato, and Aratus indicate that they were familiar with actual Greek literary texts. This familiarity most likely derived from their experiences as a youth of the very homogeneous Hellenistic educational curriculum that had been, and would continue to be, used for centuries throughout the eastern Mediterranean.
Luke is believed to have been a close companion and disciple of the apostle Paul. It is said that he travelled extensively with Paul, witnessing first-hand the expansion of the early Christian community. This intimate association with Paul is reflected in the “we” sections of the Book of Acts, written in the first-person plural.
If Luke was the author of the third Gospel and the Acts of the Apostles, the course and nature of his ministry may be sketched in more detail from both texts. He excludes himself from those who were eyewitnesses of Christ’s ministry. He indicates participation in the Pauline mission by the use of the first person in the “we” sections of Acts. They suggest that Luke shared in instructing persons in the Christian message and possibly in performing miraculous healings.
The “we” sections are analogous in style to travel reports found elsewhere in writings of the Greco-Roman period. They place the author with Paul during his initial mission into Greece—i.e., as far as Philippi, in Macedonia (c. 51 CE). It is there that Luke later re-joins Paul and accompanies him on his final journey to Jerusalem (c. 58 CE). After Paul’s arrest in that city and during his extended detention in nearby Caesarea, Luke may have spent considerable time in Palestine working with the apostle as the occasion allowed and gathering materials for his future two-volume literary work, the Gospel and the Acts. In any case, two years later he appears with Paul on his prison voyage from Caesarea to Rome and again, according to the Second Letter of Paul to Timothy 4:11, at the time of the apostle’s martyrdom in the imperial city of Rome (c. 66 CE).
New Testament References
Further references to Luke in the New Testament is scarce. Luke’s earliest mention is in the Epistle to Philemon 1:24. He is also mentioned in Colossians 4:14 and 2 Timothy 4:11, both traditionally held to be Pauline epistles.
Writings from the latter half of the second century provide further information. A number of them—St. Irenaeus’s Against Heresies, the Anti-Marcionite Prologue to the Gospels, and the Muratorian Canon listing the books received as sacred by the Christians—identify Luke as the author of the third Gospel and Acts. The Prologue makes the particular assertion that St. Luke was “a man from Antioch, Syria” who wrote while being “moved by the Holy Spirit”—that is, as a prophet.
Epiphanius, in the 5th century states that Luke was one of the Seventy Apostles (Panarion 51.11), and John Chrysostom indicates at one point that the “brother” that Paul mentions in the Second Epistle to the Corinthians 8:18 is either Luke or Barnabas (Homily 18 on Second Corinthians on 2 Corinthians 8:18).
Luke died at age 84 in Boeotia, according to a “fairly early and widespread tradition”. According to Nikephoros Kallistos Xanthopoulos, Greek historian of the 14th century (and others), Luke’s tomb was located in Thebes, whence his relics were transferred to Constantinople in the year 357.
Gospel of Luke
Luke’s Gospel offers a unique perspective on the life of Jesus, emphasizing themes of compassion, mercy, and inclusivity. It includes parables such as the Good Samaritan and the Prodigal Son, shedding light on the teachings of Jesus that extend love and forgiveness to all. Let us look into some of the themes incorporated in the Gospel:
The Universal Savior
St. Luke’s Gospel gently unfolds its pages, revealing a profound narrative that resonates with the hearts of people from all walks of life. With an empathetic pen, the Gospel presents Jesus Christ as the universal Savior, whose mercy transcends boundaries and embraces the entirety of humanity. It is a testament to the inclusive nature of Christ’s message that His genealogy, meticulously traced by Luke, threads its way through the tapestry of history, stretching back to the very origins of mankind.
In tracing Jesus’ lineage all the way to Adam, St. Luke holds a mirror up to our shared humanity. This gesture signifies that the salvation freely offered by Jesus is not confined by the limitations of time, place, or lineage. It is an open invitation extended to every soul, from every corner of the earth, regardless of their background or ancestral heritage.
Within the pages of Luke’s Gospel, we find a transformative story that speaks to the hearts of individuals across cultures and continents. It emphasizes the inherent worth and dignity of every human person, highlighting the profound truth that Jesus’ love and mercy know no bounds. From the humblest beginnings to the grandest heights, the Gospel invites each and every one of us to find solace, forgiveness, and redemption in the arms of the compassionate Saviour.
Parables of Mercy and Forgiveness
Situated within the elegant tapestry of St. Luke’s Gospel, we find an array of parables that illuminate the boundless mercy and compassion of Christ. Among these cherished gems, none shines quite as brightly as the Parable of the Prodigal Son. With its layers of profound symbolism and profound emotional intensity, this powerful narrative offers a timeless message of hope, redemption, and unyielding forgiveness.
The Prodigal Son parable beckons us to journey alongside a young man who, driven by his restless spirit, embarks on a reckless quest for freedom and self-discovery. In his pursuit of worldly pleasures and independence, he squanders his inheritance, both material and spiritual, and finds himself destitute and alone. As the world turns its back on him, his desperate state becomes a powerful metaphor for the human condition—our inherent inclination to stray from the path of righteousness and experience the consequences of our actions.
Yet, despite the young man’s moral bankruptcy and countless mistakes, the story takes an unexpected turn. As he reaches the depths of despair, he finally recognizes the profound love of his father, a love that never faltered even during his absence. Overwhelmed with remorse and humility, the prodigal son gathers his strength to return to his father’s embrace, hoping for mercy and restoration.
The heart of this parable lies in the father’s response to his long-lost son. Rather than meeting him with anger or resentment, the father’s heart brims with inexhaustible love and compassion. Spotting his wayward child from afar, he dashes towards him, robes flowing, and joyfully welcomes him back into the embrace of the family. Desperate to express his love and forgiveness, the father lavishes the prodigal son with a feast and celebrates his homecoming with uncontainable joy.
Through the Parable of the Prodigal Son, we are reminded that no matter how far we may wander or how deeply we may fall, the Father’s unwavering love and forgiveness are always within reach. In this richly detailed narrative, we discover the depths of divine mercy that surpass our understanding—an invitation to cast aside our burdens and approach the throne of grace with confidence.
The Good Samaritan
In the parable of the Good Samaritan, St. Luke unravels the essence of Christian love and compassion.
In this parable, Jesus narrates the tale of a man who was robbed, beaten, and left half-dead on the roadside. A priest and a Levite, both esteemed figures in Jewish society, pass by without offering any help. However, it is the Samaritan, a member of a despised group by the Jewish community, who stops and tends to the wounded man.
This parable challenges societal norms and prejudices, highlighting the importance of empathy and compassion. Jesus uses this story to illustrate that genuine acts of kindness and love should know no boundaries or restrictions. Rather, they should flow freely, transcending differences of race, religion, and social status, to uplift and care for those in need.
The actions of the Good Samaritan teach us to recognize the face of Christ in every person we encounter. It is a call to look beyond our own self-interests and extend a helping hand to those who are suffering. Just as the Samaritan poured oil and wine on the man’s wounds, bandaged them, and brought him to an inn for further care, we too are called to offer practical assistance and genuine concern to those around us.
This parable challenges us to examine our own prejudices and biases, reminding us that acts of kindness and mercy have the power to bridge divides and bring healing to a broken world. It calls us to be agents of change, to be the ones who step forward to offer assistance, comfort, and hope to those who are in desperate need.
As we reflect on the parable of the Good Samaritan, let us be inspired to live out its message in our own lives. May we be instruments of God’s love, extending compassion and kindness to all we encounter, regardless of their background or circumstances. Through our actions, may we bring about a world where love triumphs over hatred, and where the wounded are embraced with empathy and care.
The Ministry of Healing
As a physician himself, St. Luke had a deep understanding and appreciation for the healing ministry of Jesus. In his Gospel, St. Luke presents a vivid portrayal of Christ’s compassion and tenderness towards the sick and suffering. He emphasizes Christ’s role as the Divine Physician, who not only tends to physical ailments but also heals the wounded souls of those who seek His mercy.
Through his careful narration, St. Luke showcases numerous instances where Jesus performs miraculous healings, demonstrating his boundless love and extraordinary power. From restoring sight to the blind to curing the lepers and even raising the dead, each healing account serves as a powerful testimony to Christ’s divine authority over illness and his compassion for the afflicted.
Furthermore, St. Luke’s Gospel highlights the inclusivity of Christ’s healing ministry. He emphasizes that Jesus does not discriminate based on social status, ethnicity, or any other worldly divisions. The healings extend to both women and men, the rich and the poor, the marginalized and the powerful. This inclusivity reveals the radical nature of Jesus’ love and the revolutionary nature of His message.
Through the stories of these healings, St. Luke invites us to consider the deeper meaning and significance behind the physical miracles. He prompts us to reflect on our own woundedness, both physically and spiritually, and to seek healing and restoration through our encounters with Jesus. St. Luke’s Gospel reminds us that Christ’s love has the power to mend even the deepest wounds of the human heart and provide the ultimate healing for the entirety of our being.
In conclusion, St. Luke’s Gospel presents a rich tapestry of healing narratives that point to the transformative power of Christ’s love and mercy. Through his meticulous account, St. Luke invites us to draw near to the Divine Physician and experience the profound healing and wholeness that He offers to all who come to Him in faith.
Women in Luke’s Gospel
St. Luke’s Gospel, known for its rich narrative and attention to detail, bestows a special prominence upon women, underscoring their essential role in the life and ministry of Jesus. Through his vivid storytelling, St. Luke invites us to contemplate the powerful ways in which women shape and contribute to the unfolding of God’s plan.
One of the central figures in St. Luke’s Gospel is Mary, the Mother of God. Her faithful obedience and humble acceptance of the angel’s message demonstrate her extraordinary trust in God’s divine plan. Mary’s willingness to surrender herself to the will of God serves as an inspiring example of faith and devotion for believers throughout the ages.
Additionally, we encounter women like Martha and Mary Magdalene, who offer us different glimpses into discipleship and devotion. Martha’s busyness in serving others and Mary’s decision to sit at the feet of Jesus both highlight the necessity of both action and contemplation in the life of a follower of Christ. St. Luke carefully presents these stories to remind us that there are diverse ways to express our love and commitment to God.
Furthermore, St. Luke emphasizes the integral role of women as witnesses to the Gospel. For instance, it is the women who remain steadfast at the foot of the cross, even in the midst of Jesus’ suffering and death. Their unwavering presence and unwavering devotion highlight their deep love for Jesus and their profound understanding of the significance of his sacrifice.
In conclusion, the Gospel of St. Luke beautifully portrays women as not only witnesses but also active participants in Jesus’ ministry. Their faith, love, and steadfastness serve as a testament to the profound impact that women have had and continue to have in the unfolding story of salvation.
Luke – As a Historian
St. Luke stands as a pillar of meticulous record-keeping within the pages of the New Testament. Luke 1:1–4, drawing on historical investigation, identified the work to the readers as belonging to the genre of history. With scholarly precision and divine inspiration, he embarks on a journey to chronicle the life and teachings of Jesus Christ, as well as the nascent days of the early Christian Church.
In his Gospel, St. Luke undertook a careful examination of eyewitness accounts and existing narratives. His commitment to historical accuracy shines through in the precise details, genealogies, and chronological sequence of events. His quest for truth extended to the Book of Acts, where he meticulously traced the expansion of the Christian faith, providing invaluable insights into the journeys and trials of the apostles.
St. Luke’s approach transcends mere documentation; it is an act of sacred stewardship. With unwavering dedication, he crafted a narrative that transcends time, allowing generations to witness the transformative power of Christ’s teachings and the indomitable spirit of the early Christian community. Through his pen, St. Luke invites us to step into the annals of history, to walk alongside the apostles, and to experience the living tapestry of faith that continues to unfold through the ages.
Luke – As an Artist
While St. Luke is revered as the beloved physician and meticulous historian, he is also venerated within the Orthodox tradition as a distinguished artist and iconographer. Legend has it that St. Luke, under the guidance of divine inspiration, painted the first icon of the Virgin Mary, the Theotokos.
As an artist, St. Luke’s creations transcended mere physical representation. His hand, guided by a profound spiritual connection, imbued his icons with a sacred luminosity. Through color, form, and proportion, he captured the essence of divine figures and holy scenes, allowing viewers to glimpse the transcendent realities they represent.
St. Luke’s artistic talents, like his writings, were a medium through which he communicated the ineffable mysteries of faith. His icons became windows to the divine, inviting believers into a deeper communion with the heavenly realm. Through the ages, his legacy as an iconographer has inspired countless artists, shaping the rich tradition of iconography within the Orthodox Church.
Today, as we behold the icons gracing the walls of churches and homes, we are reminded of St. Luke’s profound contribution to the visual language of Orthodox worship. His artistry continues to serve as a sacred bridge between the earthly and the heavenly, guiding us towards a deeper encounter with the Divine.
I hope this expanded information on Saint Luke the Evangelist provides you with a deeper understanding of his life and significance in Christian tradition. If you have any further questions or topics you’d like to explore, feel free to ask!
St. Luke the Evangelist, through his healing hands and inspired pen, leaves us with a legacy of compassion, inclusivity, and unwavering faith. His life serves as a beacon of light, illuminating the path of discipleship for Orthodox Christians around the world. May we, like St. Luke, be inspired to share the Gospel message with love, mercy, and a steadfast commitment to Christ’s healing mission.
Your brother in Christ
Jobin George
Sources:
Luke the Evangelist – Wikipedia
Luke, the Beloved Historian | Christian Courier
