The Gospel According to Luke - Lecture Notes

Overview

• Focus: Luke's portrayal of John the Baptist and Jesus.
• Main Theme: Fulfillment of Israel's story and God's promises.
• Key Idea: Jesus' mission and the upside-down nature of God's kingdom.

Jesus as the Fulfillment of Promises

• Jesus and John the Baptist seen as fulfilling Old Testament prophecies.
• Jesus launches his mission to bring God's kingdom, especially to the poor and outsiders.
• Key Concept: Upside-down kingdom — reversal of social values.

Jesus as the New Moses

• Jesus depicted as leading a new Exodus with his journey to Jerusalem.
• Central Section: Jesus' teachings and parables on the road.

Discipleship and Mission

• Jesus sends disciples ahead to announce God's kingdom.
• Discipleship: Participation in Jesus’ mission; minimalist mentality freeing from possessions.
• Key Teachings:
  • Prayer and trust in God's provision.
  • Money, possessions, and generosity.

Jesus’ Ministry to the Poor and Outsiders

• Encounters with the sick, blind, Samaritans, and tax collectors.
• Transformation through encounters with Jesus.
• Kingdom Community: Described as a great banquet party.
• Parable of the Prodigal Son: Highlights God's generous welcome.

Conflict with Israel's Leaders

• Jesus' debates with Israel's leaders.
• Parables and Banquets: Illustrate contrasting attitudes towards Jesus’ mission.

Journey to Jerusalem

• Jesus' approach to Jerusalem is marked by weeping and tension.
• Conflict: Rejection by Israel's leaders foreshadows Jerusalem's downfall.

Prophetic Actions and Teaching

• Jesus cleanses the temple; predicts its destruction.
• Symbolism: Denunciation of the temple system.

The Passion and Crucifixion

• Jesus' innocence emphasized in trials.
• Crucifixion: Offers forgiveness and hope.
• Death and Burial: Jesus' death embodies God's love and mercy.

Resurrection and Revelation

• Empty Tomb: Disciples find the tomb empty.
• Emmaus Road Story: Recognizing Jesus after submission to his kingdom.

Conclusion of Luke

• Jesus explains his role fulfillment of scriptures.
• Kingdom's Expansion: From Israel to the nations.
• Promise of the Holy Spirit: Empower disciples for mission.

Transition to Acts

• Jesus' kingdom mission continues in the book of Acts.