16:20 Mark 16:20

Luke 1:1

1:2 1:2

Bible Versions

¶ Forasmuch as many have taken in hand to set forth in order a declaration of those things which are most surely believed among us,
Forasmuch {G1895} as many {G4183} have taken in hand {G2021} to set forth in order {G392} a declaration {G1335} of {G4012} those things {G4229} which are most surely believed {G4135} among {G1722} us {G2254},
Dear Theophilos: Concerning the matters that have taken place among us, many people have undertaken to draw up accounts
Many have undertaken to compose an account of the things that have been fulfilled among us,
Forasmuch as many have taken in hand to draw up a narrative concerning those matters which have been fulfilled among us,

Study Tools

Luke 1:1 serves as the crucial opening statement of the Gospel of Luke, immediately establishing the author's purpose and methodology. It sets the stage for a carefully researched and historically grounded account of the life, ministry, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ.

Context of Luke 1:1

This verse introduces Luke's comprehensive narrative, which is unique among the Gospels for its detailed preface. Luke, traditionally identified as a Gentile physician and companion of the Apostle Paul, was not an eyewitness to the events he describes. Instead, he meticulously gathered information from those who were, aiming to provide an accurate and orderly account for his recipient, Theophilus, and a wider audience. The mention of "many" who had already "taken in hand to set forth in order a declaration" suggests that various accounts of Jesus' life were circulating, some perhaps less complete or accurate than others. Luke's intention was to offer a definitive, well-substantiated record of the origins of Christianity.

Key Themes and Messages

  • Historical Reliability: Luke emphasizes the factual basis of the Christian faith. He is not presenting myths but events that were "most surely believed" because they were verifiable and widely accepted among early Christians. This commitment to historical accuracy distinguishes his work.
  • Orderly Presentation: The phrase "set forth in order" highlights Luke's methodical and systematic approach. He aims to present events logically, often with chronological precision, to build a coherent and convincing narrative. This is further elaborated in Luke 1:3.
  • Eyewitness Foundation: Although not an eyewitness himself, Luke's work is grounded in the testimony of those who were present from the beginning, underscoring the importance of firsthand accounts in establishing truth and the validity of the Gospel message.
  • Shared Conviction: "Those things which are most surely believed among us" speaks to the core doctrines and historical events that formed the common faith of the early Christian community, emphasizing a collective understanding of the Gospel message and its foundational truths.

Linguistic Insights

The Greek phrase translated "most surely believed" is peplērophorēmenōn, which carries a stronger meaning than mere belief. It implies "fully accomplished," "fully assured," or "fully confirmed." This suggests that the events Luke is about to narrate were not just matters of opinion or faith, but historical realities that had been fulfilled and attested to with certainty among believers. This term reinforces Luke's commitment to presenting a factual and reliable account of the life of Jesus.

Practical Application

Luke 1:1 reminds us that the Christian faith is not based on blind belief or fables, but on historical events that were thoroughly investigated and affirmed by those who lived through them. It encourages believers to appreciate the diligent efforts of those who preserved and documented the Gospel message for future generations. For contemporary readers, it underscores the importance of examining the historical evidence for Christianity and understanding that faith is built upon a solid foundation of truth and fulfilled prophecy, much like the "infallible proofs" mentioned in Acts 1:3 regarding Christ's resurrection.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

  • Acts 1:1

    ¶ The former treatise have I made, O Theophilus, of all that Jesus began both to do and teach,

  • Acts 1:3

    To whom also he shewed himself alive after his passion by many infallible proofs, being seen of them forty days, and speaking of the things pertaining to the kingdom of God:

  • 2 Peter 1:16

    ¶ For we have not followed cunningly devised fables, when we made known unto you the power and coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, but were eyewitnesses of his majesty.

  • 2 Peter 1:19

    ¶ We have also a more sure word of prophecy; whereunto ye do well that ye take heed, as unto a light that shineth in a dark place, until the day dawn, and the day star arise in your hearts:

  • 1 Timothy 3:16

    And without controversy great is the mystery of godliness: God was manifest in the flesh, justified in the Spirit, seen of angels, preached unto the Gentiles, believed on in the world, received up into glory.

  • John 20:31

    But these are written, that ye might believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God; and that believing ye might have life through his name.

  • 2 Timothy 4:17

    Notwithstanding the Lord stood with me, and strengthened me; that by me the preaching might be fully known, and [that] all the Gentiles might hear: and I was delivered out of the mouth of the lion.

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