Luke Bible Study Notes Chapter 1

3/18/2012

Luke 1

-Luke, the physician (Colossians 4:14), writes a detailed-accurate history of the events of the life of Jesus Christ in chronological order from the eyewitnesses in a compiled work. He writes it to the most excellent Theophilus, who is more than likely an individual person of importance; although, it could possibly be a group of people.

-This occurred in the days of Herod the Great, king of Judah. He was only half Jewish, half Idumaean (a descendent of the Edomites) and was highly distrusted by the Jewish populace. He was wealthy and a friend of the Roman Empire, which gave him his kingdom by Senate vote from Rome.

- The history begins with the story of Zacharias the priest of God from the Abijah division and his wife Elizabeth, who was from the daughters of Aaron. Zacharias is visited by Gabriel, the angel who stands in the presence of God. The prophecy of his son, John (John the Baptist), was revealed. This is the one who would come in the spirit of Elijah before the coming of the Messiah (Malachi 4:5-6) for the purpose of turning them back in repentance to the LORD. Luke gives us many insightful developments and descriptions of the events of John’s birth and Elizabeth’s interaction with Mary, the mother of Jesus.

-Chapter 1 also reveals the events of Gabriel’s appearance in Nazareth to Mary, the virgin, when she is impregnated by the Holy Spirit as the favored mother of God. This is a fulfillment of Isaiah 7:14. Her song in verses 46-55 gives us vivid description of her relationship with the LORD she was carrying in her womb as His bondslave. It also prophecies the fulfillment of Jesus’ ministry and the completion of His covenant with His people.

-Zacharias’ prophecy completes the first chapter with a compilation of all the Scriptures that are about to be fulfilled through Jesus Christ for the redemption of His people and salvation from their enemies. It denotes the Davidic kingship as the eternal throne and underscores the tender mercies of our God.

-A verse describing John’s life as he grew up in the deserts is inserted at the end of the chapter.

Verse to Memorize: Luke 1:37