These verses introduce the Gospel according to... - All The Good Seed Daily Devotionals for 2024

Inasmuch as many have taken in hand to set in order a narrative of those things which have been fulfilled among us, … it seemed good to me also … to write to you an orderly account, most excellent Theophilus.
Luke 1:1–3

These verses introduce the Gospel according to Luke. At the time of its writing, there were probably already several accounts of the life and death of Jesus. But why does Luke’s account of all things find its way into the Bible and the others do not? They were not considered by the first Christians to be inspired by God, since they did not refer to the direct testimony of the apostles. This does not mean that they were necessarily false. But an inspired text presents things as God would have them presented.

This also explains why the four Gospels, while generally in agreement, also differ from each other in various aspects.

Matthew, himself a Jew, addresses Jews and describes Jesus primarily as the Messiah of Israel. Mark, having once been an unfaithful servant, presents Christ as the faithful and perfect servant. Luke, the physician, has the focus on Him as true man, while John presents Jesus as the Son of God.

The Gospels – like the whole Bible – are documents whose author is God Himself. But the inspiration did not eliminate the character traits of the writers, nor their horizon of experience. So it was not a mere dictation.

Through the Bible, God speaks to mankind. That is what gives it its value! When we read the Word of God sincerely, we realise that God is not concerned with mere reporting. No, He shares much of Himself with us, and His ultimate goal is for us to know a person: His Son, Jesus Christ.

How well do you know Him?

Today’s reading: Ezekiel 26:1-21 · Psalms 128:1-6