Keraia
Luke 1

Luke 1:3

Dedication to Theophilus · Luke 1:1–4
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Translations

Modern
Therefore, having carefully investigated everything from the beginning, it seemed good also to me to write an orderly account for you, most excellent Theophilus,
Traditional
It seemed good to me also, having had perfect understanding of all things from the very first, to write unto thee in order, most excellent Theophilus,
Literal
…it seemed good also to me, having followed closely from the first all things carefully, to write in consecutive order to you, most excellent Theophilus,
Latin
…visum est et mihi, assecuto omnia a principio diligenter, ex ordine tibi scribere, optime Theophile,

Original

Greek
English
Therefore, having carefully investigated everything from the beginning, it seemed good also to me to write an orderly account for you, most excellent Theophilus,

Notes

Luke 1:3

  • As a good historian, Luke carefully investigated the history of Jesus from the start to provide a reliable story.

  • an orderly account: Some versions translate this phrase as “in consecutive order.” But it means an organized or carefully written account, not a sequence of time.

  • The name Theophilus means “loved by God” or “one who loves God.” It is likely a personal name, not meant to describe a name.

    Different theories suggest he might be:

    1. an unbeliever who was influential in society,

    2. a person newly converted to Christianity needing guidance,

    3. the judge at the apostle Paul’s trial (the book of Acts ends with Paul in prison in Rome, waiting for his trial, or

    4. the person who funded Luke’s writing project.

    The fourth option is the most likely because it was common when writing literature to honor the person who funded it. The Greek word translated as most excellent indicates someone of important social status.

Luke 1:1–4

Luke begins his Gospel with a formal introduction written in the style of skilled Greek writers of his time. These first four verses use a careful and formal style. They are among the best-written Greek in the New Testament.

Theme notes and profiles

Luke Angels The Blessings of Jesus The Written Word

Parallels

Acts 1:1–3

People

Theophilus: Recipient of Luke's Gospel and Acts

Glossary

Bible, Manuscripts and Text of the (New Testament) Book of the Acts of the Apostles Incarnation Inspiration of the Bible Luke, Gospel of Theophilus Virgin Birth of Jesus Zechariah (Person)

Topics

Books: Often Dedicated to Persons of Distinction Epistles of Luke to Theophilus Luke: Wrote to Theophilus Theophilus: A Christian to Whom Luke Addressed the Books of Luke and Acts Word of God: Inspiration of