Luke (Life Application Bible Commentary | LABC)
Overview
Luke, a doctor and a historian, wrote the third Gospel. As a doctor, a man of science, he carefully considered all the facts before rendering an opinion. As a historian, Luke’s research was meticulous; he interviewed reliable witnesses and primary sources. Addressing Theophilus, Luke wrote, “Having carefully investigated all of these accounts from the beginning, I have decided to write a careful summary for you, to reassure you of the truth of all you were taught” (Luke 1:3-4 NLT). To “reassure” his friend and other believers who never had the opportunity to see Jesus themselves, Luke sought and found the truth. Luke’s investigation included reading “accounts about the events” (1:1) and analyzing “reports . . . from the early disciples and other eyewitnesses” (1:2). Then he recorded it to affirm this truth in writing and to point his readers to the Truth, Jesus Christ. As you read Luke’s Gospel, carefully investigate for yourself. Analyze the evidence presented, follow the clues, and render your judgment. No doubt you, too, will discover that Jesus is Christ, the Savior, God’s son.
About the Series
The Life Application Bible Commentary series provides verse-by-verse explanation, background, and application for every verse in the New Testament. In addition, it gives personal help, teaching notes, and sermon ideas that will address needs, answer questions, and provide insight for applying God’s Word to life today. The content is highlighted so that particular verses and phrases are easy to find.
Each volume contains three sections: introduction, commentary, and reference. The introduction includes an overview of the book, the book’s historical context, a timeline, cultural background information, major themes, an overview map, and an explanation about the author and audience.
The commentary section includes running commentary on the Bible text with reference to several modern versions, especially the New International Version and the New Revised Standard Version, accompanied by life applications interspersed throughout. Additional elements include charts, diagrams, maps, and illustrations. There are also insightful quotes from church leaders and theologians such as John Calvin, Martin Luther, John Wesley, A. W. Tozer, and C. S. Lewis. These features are designed to help you quickly grasp the biblical information and be prepared to communicate it to others. The reference section includes a bibliography.
Top Highlights
“Jesus answered Satan with what is written in Scripture.” (Page 86)
“Mark. For instance, a fever is said to be ‘high’ (4:38—compare this with Mark 1:30 in the Greek” (Page xiii)
“Continual prayer would have been a new idea for the Jews, who said that it was best to pray three times a day so as not to weary God. To persist in prayer and not give up does not mean endless repetition or painfully long prayer sessions. Always praying means keeping one’s requests constantly before God as one lives for him day by day, believing he will answer. Living by faith means not giving up. God may delay answering, but his delays always have good reasons. Christians must not be discouraged by God’s delays.” (Pages 409–410)
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“Mary was young, poor, female—all characteristics that, to the people of her day, would make her seem unusable by God for any major task. But God chose Mary for one of the most important acts of obedience he has ever demanded of anyone. You may feel that your ability, experience, or education makes you an unlikely candidate for God’s service. Don’t limit God’s choices. He can use you if you trust him. Take him at his word.” (Page 17) |
“What is faith? It is total dependence on God and a willingness to do his will.” (Page 398)
