“That You May Have Certainty”

Luke 1:1-4; Acts 1:1-3

Introduction

–         Book of Acts is the second volume of a two part historical work written by Luke that covers a period of approximately 30 years

–         As we begin a new series in the book of Acts we’re going to look at three motives that Luke had in mind for undertaking this task

I. Luke’s Historical Motive

1.     Historical Nature of Luke/Acts

• Prologue reflects other ancient histories
• Based on eyewitness testimony
• Carefully researched by Luke

2.     Identity of Luke (cf. Col 4:14; 2 Tim 4:11; Phil 24)

• Gentile follower of Jesus
• Well educated and cultured medical doctor
• Paul’s travelling companion

3.     Importance of Luke’s Historical Work

• Challenges the views of skeptics
• Reminds us that the Christian gospel is based on historical events that really happened!

II. Luke’s Pastoral Motive

1.     Luke is writing to help Theophilus come to greater certainty and assurance

2.     Identity of Theophilus (‘lover of God’)

• Possibly a Roman Official
• Probably a wealthy patron
• Probably a brand new believer with many questions and doubts

III. Luke’s Apologetic Motive

1.     Luke wrote Acts to defend the Christian gospel from misunderstanding  (apology= defense)

• Roman Empire tended to view Christians as politically dangerous
• Luke emphasizes in Acts that Christians are peaceful citizens with a message that is not politically charged
• It is possible that Acts was written as a legal defense for the Apostle Paul at his trial