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Luke 1: 1-4
Dedication to Theophilus 1 Inasmuch as many have undertaken to compile a narrative of the things that have been accomplished among us, 2 just as those who from the beginning were eyewitnesses and ministers of the word have delivered them to us, 3 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, 4 that you may have certainty concerning the things you have been taught. |
We must have all found ourselves in a situation where we have had doubts or not been sure about something, and wanted to have a greater understanding about a topic. Increasingly, I expect many of us turn to technology for answers. Apparently, there are billions of google searches every day! This can give many options to choose from, with potentially different and even conflicting answers.
What a contrast in the opening verses of Luke! A doctor with an interest in detail, Luke explains he has ‘carefully investigated’ all that he has learned, and then comprehensively written about his findings. Why has he done this? As it says in verse 4, so that Theophilus ‘may know the certainty of the things you have been taught’. Luke’s writings give much detail about what this certainty relates to - the birth of baby Jesus, His death to take away our sin, His resurrection, and through believing in Jesus as our Saviour, our certain hope of eternal life.
As we celebrate another Christmas season, people will generally be aware of what Luke writes about Jesus as a baby in a manger; although this may well be as an afterthought in the commercialism of 21st century Christmas. But how much more we can celebrate! The amazing fact that some 2,000 years after Luke wrote his gospel we can read from the same source as Theophilus. To learn not only about baby Jesus, but also of the certainty His coming gives for our eternal future.
Fiona M