Purpose gives perspective. The 'what' makes sense when we know the 'why'.
The purpose of Luke's Gospel is stated right at the beginning:
"Inasmuch as many have undertaken to compile an account of the things accomplished among us, just as they were handed down to us by those who from the beginning were eyewitnesses and servants of the word, it seemed fitting for me as well, having investigated everything carefully from the beginning, to write it out for you in consecutive order, most excellent Theophilus; so that you may know the exact truth about the things you have been taught." (Luke 1:1-4)
The Gospel of Luke is a detailed, consecutive account of the life of Christ as reported by eyewitnesses and "servants of the word" (more on that in a moment).
John's Gospel has a different purpose statement:
"many other signs Jesus also performed in the presence of the disciples, which are not written in this book; but these have been written so that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God; and that believing you may have life in His name." (John 20:30-31)
Luke gives us a detailed, chronological account of events whereas John is selective in recording those things which have the purpose of leading us to life-giving faith. Both come from eyewitnesses and "servants of the word".
As recipients of these accounts we have also become servants of the word. We serve both the written word and the word made flesh, Jesus the Christ. God's written and living word is confirmed in our changed lives.
We are the living Gospel to the world. The reality of the written and living word within is a powerful witness and testimony to the world. Unbelievers will first encounter the word in us before they will encounter the written and living word of God.
There we have our great purpose statement - to serve the word (the things concerning the kingdom of God and the name of Jesus Christ). As we live and personify that word God's purposes are advanced in the world today.
Let your light shine today, servants of the word.
Steve
The purpose of Luke's Gospel is stated right at the beginning:
"Inasmuch as many have undertaken to compile an account of the things accomplished among us, just as they were handed down to us by those who from the beginning were eyewitnesses and servants of the word, it seemed fitting for me as well, having investigated everything carefully from the beginning, to write it out for you in consecutive order, most excellent Theophilus; so that you may know the exact truth about the things you have been taught." (Luke 1:1-4)
The Gospel of Luke is a detailed, consecutive account of the life of Christ as reported by eyewitnesses and "servants of the word" (more on that in a moment).
John's Gospel has a different purpose statement:
"many other signs Jesus also performed in the presence of the disciples, which are not written in this book; but these have been written so that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God; and that believing you may have life in His name." (John 20:30-31)
Luke gives us a detailed, chronological account of events whereas John is selective in recording those things which have the purpose of leading us to life-giving faith. Both come from eyewitnesses and "servants of the word".
As recipients of these accounts we have also become servants of the word. We serve both the written word and the word made flesh, Jesus the Christ. God's written and living word is confirmed in our changed lives.
We are the living Gospel to the world. The reality of the written and living word within is a powerful witness and testimony to the world. Unbelievers will first encounter the word in us before they will encounter the written and living word of God.
There we have our great purpose statement - to serve the word (the things concerning the kingdom of God and the name of Jesus Christ). As we live and personify that word God's purposes are advanced in the world today.
Let your light shine today, servants of the word.
Steve
posted by steve @ 8:48 AM
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