Introduction: That You May Know the Certainty of Those Things in Which You Have Been Instructed

Greetings. We begin our chapter-by-chapter examination of the Gospel of Luke. Previously, we studied the Gospels of Mark, Matthew, and John. Today, we embark on the last of the four Gospels, Luke. A comparison of these four books reveals a distinct characteristic: they all narrate the story from the birth of Jesus to his crucifixion and resurrection. However, their emphases differ. Luke focuses on meticulously investigating and then writing about these events, as stated in the opening:

Inasmuch as many have taken in hand to set in order a narrative of those things which have been fulfilled among us, just as those who from the beginning were eyewitnesses and ministers of the word delivered them to us, it seemed good to me also, having had perfect understanding of all things from the very first, to write to you in order, most excellent Theophilus, that you may know the certainty of those things in which you have been instructed. (Luke 1:1-4)

I will provide an overall summary of this book to offer a fresh perspective on the Gospel of Luke. The Gospel of Matthew omits many details, which can lead to some confusion for the reader. For example, when I first became a believer, I found it slightly perplexing when Jesus told Peter, Follow me, and Peter readily abandoned everything to follow Jesus. It seemed somewhat mythical. However, the Gospel of Luke describes the act of following Jesus in great detail.

Each of the four Gospels possesses its own unique characteristics. The Gospel of Mark is characterized by fewer teachings and a greater emphasis on miracles. Those who believe will be accompanied by signs and wonders. The Gospel of Matthew presents two kingdoms, two pursuits, and two outcomes. The Gospel of Luke provides a detailed examination from the beginning, ensuring that we know the certainty of the things we have been taught. The Gospel of John reflects a distinctly Jewish mindset, predominantly discussing the way to eternal life.

The Gospel of Luke reads somewhat like a historical record, meticulously detailing the births of both Jesus and John the Baptist. Today, I will offer a general summary of the Gospel of Luke, with the aim of ensuring that we know the certainty of the things we have been taught. Luke did not witness Jesus firsthand; he was a disciple of the Apostle Paul. He gained knowledge of these events through thorough investigation. Some argue that while Luke was a physician, his writing style resembles that of a historian, primarily documenting the occurrence, development, and consequences of events.

Luke authored not only the Gospel of Luke but also the Book of Acts. The Book of Acts primarily chronicles the history of the Apostle Paul, with a brief account of other apostles at the beginning. While he was not intimately familiar with those individuals, he recorded what he personally witnessed, from the early church to the arrest of the Apostle Paul in Rome. How did Luke know the certainty of these things? Because he saw the works of the Apostle Paul. I believe Luke was also a person who acted in accordance with the words of Jesus Christ, having personally witnessed the power of Jesus Christ's resurrection from the dead.

The Filling of the Holy Spirit is Closely Related to the Power of Faith

Luke meticulously records the historical events, using his own language and highlighting clear emphases. The first emphasis is closely linked to the Book of Acts. The first chapter of the Gospel of Luke discusses the birth of John the Baptist, mentioning the filling of the Holy Spirit several times. The filling of the Holy Spirit profoundly influenced Luke's theological system. Luke's second volume, the Book of Acts, narrates how the Holy Spirit descended upon the disciples and why the Apostle Paul tirelessly preached the Gospel in various locations, employing preaching methods with distinct characteristics. This is worthy of our contemplation. He would ask people, Have you repented? Have you been baptized in the name of Jesus Christ? After baptism, have you received Jesus Christ as your Savior and been filled with the Holy Spirit?

We observe a distinct characteristic: being baptized in the Holy Spirit and being filled with the Holy Spirit are, in fact, central to Paul's theological framework. The filling of the Holy Spirit, as documented by Luke, occurs in the Book of Acts. Moreover, Luke was not present when the Holy Spirit descended upon those disciples. Luke witnessed the actions of the Apostle Paul. When discussing John the Baptist, Jesus, and even Jesus' mother, Mary, he invoked the concept of being filled with the Holy Spirit.

For instance, in the first chapter, John was filled with the Holy Spirit from his mother's womb. Later, Elizabeth is described as being filled with the Holy Spirit and prophesying. Although the term filled with the Holy Spirit is rarely mentioned in the Old Testament, Luke introduces a clear concept when examining these events: the filling of the Holy Spirit.

The filling of the Holy Spirit is, in effect, closely related to the power of Christian faith. What does Luke's writing about the filling of the Holy Spirit signify? It signifies the many instances of praying in tongues mentioned in the Book of Acts. We must have a renewed understanding of the concept of being filled with the Holy Spirit. The concept of being filled with the Holy Spirit existed before Jesus Christ's resurrection and ascension, even before Jesus Christ's conception and formation as a fetus in Mary's womb. The filling of the Holy Spirit is a crucial concept in the theological systems of the Apostle Paul and Luke. Therefore, pay close attention to the filling of the Holy Spirit.

Jesus is Appointed for the Fall and Rise of Many

The second emphasis is the appointment of Jesus Christ, which is quite intriguing. After Jesus' birth, his parents took him to the temple, where a prophet prophesied about the child:

Then Simeon blessed them, and said to Mary his mother, “Behold, this Child is destined for the fall and rising of many in Israel, and for a sign which will be spoken against (yes, a sword will pierce through your own soul also), that the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed.” (Luke 2:34-35)

The faith in Jesus Christ is a peculiar one, causing the fall and rise of many, and serving as a sign that will be spoken against, revealing the thoughts of many hearts. Chinese Mingding Destiny places great emphasis on this matter, recognizing that the fall of many is normal, and the rise of many is also normal.

When Luke wrote about the fall of many, he was following the Apostle Paul in establishing churches. He then reflected on the events that occurred decades earlier, at the time of Jesus Christ's birth. In practicing the word of God, he observed that many fell and many rose. To this day, we have identified a characteristic, a reality we must accept: the fall and departure of people from the church are normal. In our church, the fall and departure of people occur in cycles of one or two each year, or even more frequently.

A few days ago, a sister mentioned that each time our church prays extensively, continuously striking at the demonic enemies and climbing the spiritual path, a large number of people leave, while a large number of people are also delivered. I have also summarized a pattern: in the process of building our church, each time we recognize the truth of Jesus Christ and each time there is progress in healing and deliverance, we witness the fall of many and the rise of many.

Recently, as we have been striking at the demonic enemies, some people are about to fall. Perhaps they do not perceive themselves as falling, but one thing is certain: many lies will be generated within them, and I believe they are aware of the existence of lies within themselves. My service is still very conscientious. Each time I minister to individuals, I have a clear sense, but their reception is not necessarily attentive. Perhaps they believe that my conscientious service is motivated by ulterior motives. Therefore, in my ministry, I often remind these individuals, saying, Perhaps today you have a positive relationship with me, but after a period of time, you will inexplicably hate me. Your hatred is normal; you will either be delivered or deceived by the devil.

In reality, the devil is formidable. Today, let us ask ourselves whether we are among those who are about to fall. In many instances, we are deceived by the devil without even realizing it. Jesus Christ is appointed for the fall and rise of many. However, I bring you good news: each time a group of people is unwilling to run this destined path and chooses to leave, the church takes another significant step forward.

This is the fall of many and the rise of many. You may ask if my interpretation is accurate. I do not know. However, in the era of Luke and Paul's ministry, they certainly observed this situation. Today, we must do a new thing in the church, enabling people to recognize the truth of Jesus Christ more deeply. As we recognize the truth of Jesus Christ more deeply, many will fall and many will rise. This is a pattern.

In the process of advancing the church, you will discover that the thoughts of many hearts are revealed. Your ideas may be concealed for a period of time, but not for long. You can follow us and move forward together, but it is uncertain how long you will be able to follow us. If you attempt to conceal the intentions of your heart, it is ultimately impossible. Once Jesus is raised up, the thoughts of many hearts will be revealed.

Some time ago, I delivered a sermon on the fall. Falling is normal; it is Jesus Christ's way of selecting people. In the process of selecting people, Jesus will baptize us with the Holy Spirit and fire. How does Luke describe this?

John answered, saying to all, “I indeed baptize you with water; but One mightier than I is coming, whose sandal strap I am not worthy to loose. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and with fire. His winnowing fan is in His hand, and He will thoroughly clean out His threshing floor, and gather the wheat into His barn; but the chaff He will burn with unquenchable fire.” (Luke 3:16-17)

We must never assume that the church is a charitable organization. The church governed by Jesus Christ is quite crucial. Jesus' rule may not align with your or my intentions, but it is ruthless: every tree that does not bear fruit will be cut down and thrown into the fire. Today, our church is gradually advancing. Are you wheat or chaff?

Luke's theological framework is vividly embodied in the Gospel of Luke. When I summarize this book, I discover that it clearly records such an outline, thus establishing a framework. When reading books, one must discern a framework, especially for challenging books like the Gospels of Matthew and Luke. Without a framework, one is at a loss as to what is being conveyed. One sees the trees but not the forest; one sees only fragments and is unable to assemble them into a cohesive system.

Luke clearly understood that the faith in Jesus Christ is a powerful faith, and Jesus is full of the power of the Holy Spirit because Jesus was filled with the Holy Spirit. Therefore, today, to emulate Jesus and possess the power of Jesus Christ's resurrection from the dead, we must be filled with the Holy Spirit. This power, as described clearly in Isaiah 61:11, elucidates the gospel we believe today.

The Spirit of God and its Crucial Role in the Gospel

The Spirit of the Lord is on me, because he has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim freedom for the prisoners and recovery of sight for the blind, to set the oppressed free, to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor. (Luke 4:18-19)

Returning to the books of Luke and Acts, one will find that in the churches established by Luke and the Apostle Paul, the Spirit of the Lord was always mentioned. This is a critical component of the Gospel, providing the power to cast out demons. What did Jesus commission the twelve disciples to do? He sent them out to preach the Gospel, heal the sick, and cast out demons. Of course, Luke also includes teachings similar to the Sermon on the Mount in Matthew. However, the overarching concept in Luke is the powerful Gospel, discussing two foundations.

In the Gospel of Luke, Luke primarily compiles and organizes the teachings of Matthew, Mark, and the Apostle Paul during their ministries. Having witnessed these events firsthand, he traces back to the birth of Jesus Christ, His crucifixion, resurrection, and the descent of the Holy Spirit. Luke meticulously records these events, fully embodying the theological system he absorbs from the Apostle Paul, while also documenting many of Jesus' teachings and miracles.

Today, brothers and sisters must begin to understand the Apostle Paul's theological system, which also includes the event when someone told Jesus that His mother and brothers had arrived. How did Jesus respond?

He replied, 'My mother and brothers are those who hear God’s word and put it into practice.' (Luke 8:21)

Here, Jesus speaks somewhat subtly, but in other Gospels, the expression is much stronger.

He replied to him, “Who is my mother, and who are my brother?” Pointing to his disciples, he said, “Here are my mother and my brothers. For whoever does the will of my Father in heaven is my brother and sister, and mother.”’ (Matthew 12:48-50)

In Luke's Gospel, Jesus speaks more gently, saying that those who hear God's word and obey it are His mother and brothers. In reality, this also represents Luke's logical system of magnifying the Lord, emphasizing that obedience to God's word is what truly matters.

Overview of Faith, Hypocrisy, and Entering the Narrow Gate

Luke's discussion of faith is also more detailed than in other Gospels. For example, the woman with the issue of blood touched Jesus' garment, and her bleeding stopped.

Then he said to her, “Daughter, your faith has healed you; go in peace.” (Luke 8:48)

Faith runs through the entire Gospel of Luke and is one of the frameworks for Luke's writing.

When Jesus had called the Twelve together, he gave them power and authority to drive out all demons and to cure diseases. (Luke 9:1)

The disciples, believing they had received authority, traveled throughout towns and villages, proclaiming the Gospel of the kingdom of God, healing the sick, and casting out demons. Proclaiming the Gospel and healing are closely related. The Lord also appointed seventy-two others and sent them to trample snakes and scorpions, cast out demons, heal the sick, and set people free.

Today, we have every reason to believe that what Luke did with the Apostle Paul was what Jesus trained His disciples to do. This is Luke's theological system. Everyone must remember these concepts that are discussed today, and when we examine each chapter in detail in the future, everything will be much clearer.

Luke also talks about hypocrisy. How did Luke examine hypocrisy? In fact, there was a lot of hypocrisy in Luke's time. Hypocrisy existed before Moses and continues to this day. Brothers and sisters must know that hypocrisy is very rampant in the church today, and it was very rampant in the days of Luke and the Apostle Paul. It was so serious that the Apostle Paul was afraid that his past and present efforts had been in vain, meaning that everything had been done for nothing and had been destroyed by hypocrites.

Entering the narrow gate is also Luke's logical system. God hopes that everyone will enter His kingdom, but whether you can enter truly depends on your creation.

Make every effort to enter through the narrow door, because many, I tell you, will try to enter and will not be able to. (Luke 13:24)

In church ministry, we are selecting treasures, not creating a hodgepodge. If anyone counts, the church will be corrupted. The Book of Acts was also written by Luke. If you do not read carefully, you may think that after the Apostle Paul prayed and preached, three thousand people believed, then five thousand people believed, and even today, many people think this is a good thing.

If you read carefully, you will find that the church established by Luke and the Apostle Paul pursued holiness and unity, not numbers. Luke wrote these things very skillfully, and you may not be able to read them. In fact, he did not agree with these things. If he had agreed that this was a good thing, he would have said so long ago. Luke's impression of the Jerusalem church was not good. Later, the Jerusalem church became very poor, but he was still willing to assist it. Luke and the Apostle Paul both revealed a clear characteristic: doing practical things. The Apostle Paul said that if you do not do honest work, you cannot eat. These are all very strict.

Therefore, few are saved! Do not think that because I have believed in the Lord, I am saved. Are you really saved? Many people followed Moses across the Red Sea, but did they not all die in the wilderness? Were those people saved or not? No one knows. In Luke's time, there was already the concept of entering the narrow gate. This concept is rarely recorded in other Gospels. Matthew mentioned it, but Mark and John recorded it very little.

But when once the master of the house has risen and shut the door, and you begin to stand outside and to knock at the door, saying, ‘Lord, open to us,’ then he will answer you, ‘I do not know where you come from.’ Then you will begin to say, ‘We ate and drank in your presence, and you taught in our streets.’ But he will say, ‘I tell you, I do not know where you come from. Depart from me, all you workers of evil!’ (Luke 13:25-27)

Who is this said to? It is said to Christians. Those people are Christians. They think they know the Lord Jesus, but the Lord Jesus says: I do not know you, I do not know where you come from. Last Sunday, I talked about the sermon in Luke chapter 14, and at that time Luke carefully recorded these words. If you want to live a comfortable life, you cannot follow Jesus. This is a narrow gate. Why did you not squeeze through the narrow gate? Because you are living a comfortable life, because I just bought a piece of land, bought five pairs of oxen, and got married... This way, you cannot follow Jesus.

In fact, this concept existed in the time of the Apostle Paul. Paul's views on marriage better reflect this point. Paul said: Marriage is not a sin, but once married, there will be more pain in the flesh. Because the husband has a request for the wife, and the wife has a request for the husband, and they must please each other, but in fact, it is still for the sake of living a comfortable life.

Living a comfortable life is a very big obstacle to our believing in the Lord. If a person loves his parents, wife, children, brothers, sisters, and his own life more than he loves Jesus, you cannot be a disciple of Jesus Christ, which means you have no relationship with Jesus at all. Some people say, I just want to be a believer. In fact, Jesus does not want believers. Jesus only wants disciples. Therefore, we must carefully discern what Luke is saying. Luke also talks about the concept of being faithful in small things and then being faithful in big things.

Whoever is faithful in a very little is also faithful in much, and whoever is dishonest in a very little is also dishonest in much. If then you have not been faithful in the unrighteous wealth, who will entrust to you the true riches? And if you have not been faithful in that which is another's, who will give you that which is your own? No servant can serve two masters, for either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and money.” (Luke 16:10-13)

We must know that if we care about these things in order to live a comfortable life, you will not be able to serve God. Furthermore, Luke's view of Lot is that Lot is a person who lives a comfortable life, and Lot's wife is even more so. They managed their finances absolutely well. What was the result? Luke recorded what Jesus Christ said:

Remember Lot’s wife. Whoever seeks to preserve his life will lose it, and whoever loses his life will preserve it.” (Luke 17:32-33)

Today, we must have a clear understanding of Lot's affairs! Finally, Luke talks about what other Gospels also talk about, that a person cannot serve God by the flesh. Even the Apostle Peter once denied the Lord three times. Therefore, relying on the flesh is useless. You must rely on the Holy Spirit to serve God.

Conclusion

I have sorted out the entire Gospel of Luke for everyone, so that everyone can begin to have an outline and establish a framework. This is the concept and theological system proposed by Luke. I will leave you with a small assignment. Think carefully about what the first chapter is talking about. Is it appropriate to use Longing to Be a Vessel of the Lord as the theme of the first chapter? May God bless everyone!