James C. Goodloe IV

Luke wrote this Gospel so that you [Theophilus] may have certainty concerning the things you have been taught [i. e. , catechesis] (1:4). It proceeds with a barrage of questions.

The first comes from Zechariah: How shall I know? (1:18). This is a question of knowledge. The angel Gabriel answers that we shall know by the word of God (1:19).

The second comes from Mary: How will this be? (1:34). This is a question of agency, of how the Son of God can become human. Gabriel answers that it will be by the power of God (1:35).

The third comes from Elizabeth: Why me? (1:43). Why should the gospel of Jesus Christ come to her? Mary answers that it has to do with God's choice, election, mercy, and salvation (1:47-55).

The fourth has to do with John: What then will this child be? (1:66). Zechariah answers that he will be a prophet (1:76-79). John is not the Christ, but he will go before the Christ.

Thus begins the catechism according to Luke, a series of questions in order that we may have certainty concerning the things we have been taught.

Wipf and Stock

Preaching Through Luke: The Gospel as Catechism

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