Luke

Luke is unique among New Testament authors as the only Gentile writer of Scripture. Paul called him "the beloved physician," and his medical background is reflected in precise descriptions of healings and diseases throughout his writings. His two-volume work—the Gospel of Luke and the Acts of the Apostles—comprises more of the New Testament than any other single author.

Luke's Gospel is distinguished by its emphasis on Jesus' compassion for outcasts: women, the poor, Samaritans, sinners, and Gentiles. He alone records the parables of the Good Samaritan, the Prodigal Son, and the Rich Man and Lazarus. His birth narrative includes Mary's Magnificat and the shepherds' visit, and his resurrection account includes the beautiful Emmaus Road encounter.

Luke traveled extensively with Paul, as indicated by the "we" passages in Acts. He was present during Paul's second and third missionary journeys, the voyage to Rome, and Paul's imprisonments. When others abandoned Paul, Luke remained faithful. Paul wrote from prison, "Only Luke is with me."

As a historian, Luke was meticulous. He addressed both his works to "Theophilus" and declared his purpose: "Having had perfect understanding of all things from the very first, to write unto thee in order." His accounts of dates, officials, and places have been repeatedly confirmed by archaeological discoveries. Luke's writings bridge the Jewish and Gentile worlds, demonstrating that the gospel is for all peoples.