Luke: An Introduction

The author of the book of Luke does not declare the identity of the author. However, the author is almost certainly Luke. This book starts in a similar fashion as the book of Acts and it is written to the same person, Theophilus. The book of Acts starts with a reference to the authors earlier accounts (Acts 1:1-3).

This book was probably originally written in Greek. Luke was apparently a Greek and not a Jew. He had intimate acquaintance with the Greek language and had a Greek name [Loukas <Strong’s G3065>]. According to Eusebius and others, he was a native of Antioch. But from his accurate knowledge of the Jewish ceremonies and customs, it is likely that he was a Jewish proselyte. Luke was a physician also (Col. 4:14).

The book of Luke is characterized by its parables. One could call it the “parable Gospel.” The writings of Matthew contain some parables, but few when compared with Luke. Also, most of the parables in Matthew are also found in Luke. Mark and John have only one or two passages that could be construed as parables. If you are looking for a particular parable in the Gospels, it almost certainly came from the Book of Luke.

Why are the parables important? Because they are a vital way in which Elohim communicates with His people in the last days. Yeshua quotes the prophet Isaiah to tell the disciples that He speaks in parables because Elohim does not want everyone to understand what He is saying:
(Luke 8:10 NASB) And He said, “To you it has been granted to know the mysteries of the kingdom of God, but to the rest it is in parables, in order that SEEING THEY MAY NOT SEE, AND HEARING THEY MAY NOT UNDERSTAND.

You might ask, “If the parables were not intended to be understood by all, then how can I understand them?” It is not difficult if one has been blessed with a love for His Word. As in prophecy, the meanings of symbols used in parables are given to us in other places in His Word. Also, Elohim’s Word is consistent. If His Word states that “birds” represent “the evil one,” then keep that representation in mind when birds are used in a symbolic fashion any place in Scripture.

This also begs the question, “What’s the big secret? Why isn’t this information for everyone?” These parables are for His chosen people. They will only be meaningful for those whom Elohim has opened their eyes, ears, and hearts. Otherwise, their meanings will be misconstrued. For instance, most in Christianity want to interpret the parable of the rich man and Lazarus as a literal account which delves into secrets of the alleged “afterlife.” It does no such thing. The alleged “afterlife” is actually Greek and Roman mythology adopted into Christian beliefs and dogma. It is totally without Scriptural basis. So what is the meaning of the parable of the rich man and Lazarus? Read our analysis and see if you don’t agree! You will find that every phrase in that parable had distinct significance and purpose.

Let’s look at what parables are NOT:
Parables are not literal. Parables are symbolic stories with deep meaning.
Parables are not fun little ditties to remind us how good we are. The majority of parables are loud warnings of evil and deception.

Parables are not to be interpreted by themselves. As mentioned previously. parables are like Scriptural prophecy. The meanings of the symbols in parables can be found in other parts of Scripture. After the symbolism is deciphered, then one can clearly see the message given.

Interested? Come join us as we study the writing of Dr. Luke as he tells us of the eyewitness testimony of Messiah!

Patrick McGuire