Luke 1:4

That thou mightest know the certainty of those things, wherein thou hast been instructed.

That {G2443} thou mightest know {G1921} the certainty {G803} of {G4012} those things {G3056}, wherein {G3739} thou hast been instructed {G2727}.

so that you might know how well-founded are the things about which you have been taught.

so that you may know the certainty of the things you have been taught.

that thou mightest know the certainty concerning the things wherein thou wast instructed.

Commentary

Luke 1:4 concludes the prologue of Luke's Gospel, clearly stating the author's purpose in writing to his esteemed recipient, Theophilus. This verse is pivotal for understanding Luke's meticulous approach to documenting the life and ministry of Jesus Christ, aiming to provide a solid foundation for faith.

Context

This verse follows Luke's introductory remarks in Luke 1:1-3, where he explains that he has carefully investigated everything from the beginning and decided to write an orderly account. His audience, Theophilus, is likely a Roman official or a person of significant standing, indicated by the title "most excellent" in Luke 1:3. Luke's Gospel, along with the book of Acts (also addressed to Theophilus in Acts 1:1), forms a two-volume historical work designed to provide a solid, verifiable basis for Christian faith in the early church.

Key Themes

  • Certainty and Assurance: The primary goal for Luke is to provide Theophilus, and by extension all readers, with a firm and reliable understanding of the Christian message. This speaks to the historical trustworthiness and divine truth of the events surrounding Jesus Christ.
  • Confirmation of Instruction: Theophilus had already received some form of Christian teaching or instruction. Luke's writing serves not to introduce entirely new concepts but to confirm, deepen, and provide a verifiable basis for what Theophilus had already learned. This highlights the importance of grounding initial faith in solid, documented truth.
  • Historical Veracity: Luke's emphasis on an "orderly account" based on "eyewitnesses" (Luke 1:2) underscores his commitment to historical accuracy, setting the stage for the reliable narrative that follows.

Linguistic Insights

The word "certainty" in Greek is asphaleian (ἀσφάλειαν), which conveys the idea of security, firmness, and reliability. It implies that Luke is not presenting vague notions but truths that are well-founded and beyond doubt. The term "instructed" comes from the Greek katecheo (κατηχέω), from which we derive "catechize" or "catechism." This indicates that Theophilus had received oral instruction, a common method of teaching in the early church. Luke's written account provides a definitive, unshakeable written record to solidify this oral tradition.

Practical Application

For believers today, Luke 1:4 offers profound encouragement and a challenge:

  • Foundation for Faith: Just as Theophilus needed certainty, so do we. This verse reminds us that Christian faith is not built on blind belief or myths, but on verifiable historical events and divine revelation. It encourages us to delve into the Scriptures to strengthen our own assurance, much like the purpose stated in John 20:31.
  • Value of Sound Teaching: The verse highlights the importance of clear, accurate, and systematic instruction in the faith. It underscores the need for robust theological education and diligent study of God's Word to understand "all scripture" that is "given by inspiration of God".
  • Combating Doubt: In an age of skepticism, Luke's purpose resonates. He sought to provide a sure foundation against doubt and misinformation, a task that remains vital for Christians seeking to understand and articulate their beliefs with confidence. The more we understand the historical and theological depth of our faith, the more our beliefs can be confirmed and defended.
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Cross-References

  • John 20:31 (8 votes)

    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.

  • Acts 18:25 (4 votes)

    This man was instructed in the way of the Lord; and being fervent in the spirit, he spake and taught diligently the things of the Lord, knowing only the baptism of John.

  • Galatians 6:6 (2 votes)

    Let him that is taught in the word communicate unto him that teacheth in all good things.

  • 2 Peter 1:15 (2 votes)

    Moreover I will endeavour that ye may be able after my decease to have these things always in remembrance.

  • 2 Peter 1:16 (2 votes)

    ¶ 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.

  • 1 Corinthians 14:19 (2 votes)

    Yet in the church I had rather speak five words with my understanding, that [by my voice] I might teach others also, than ten thousand words in an [unknown] tongue.

  • Romans 2:18 (1 votes)

    And knowest [his] will, and approvest the things that are more excellent, being instructed out of the law;