Gospel According to Luke: Key Themes and Narratives

Overview

• Focuses on Luke's portrayal of John the Baptist and Jesus.
• Jesus as fulfillment of Israel's story and God's promises in the Old Testament.
• Jesus launches his mission to bring good news of God's kingdom to the poor and outsiders.
• The concept of Jesus' kingdom as an upside-down reversal of social values.

Jesus' Journey to Jerusalem

• Jesus leads newly formed Israel on a journey to Jerusalem.
• Journey emphasizes learning and discipleship.
• Disciples are sent to announce God's kingdom, emphasizing participation in Jesus' mission.
• Themes of prayer, trust in God's provision, and minimalist mentality regarding possessions.

Mission to the Poor and Social Outsiders

• Jesus encounters and transforms the lives of social outsiders: sick, blind, Samaritans, tax collectors like Zacchaeus.
• Jesus’ community is described as a banquet, celebrating the mercy of God.
• Jesus' parable of the prodigal son illustrates the kingdom's welcome to all who are humble and repentant.

Conflict with Israel's Leaders

• Jesus often engages in heated debates with Israel's leaders, highlighting their pride and hypocrisy.
• Parable of the prodigal son: Older brother's resentment symbolizes the leaders' rejection of Jesus' mission.
• Jesus predicts the destruction of Jerusalem due to resistance against his kingdom of peace.

Jesus' Final Days

• Jesus weeps over Jerusalem, predicts its downfall.
• Symbolically enacts destruction of Jerusalem by disrupting temple activities.
• Jesus' arrest and trial emphasize his innocence.
• Despite innocence, Jesus is crucified; offers forgiveness to soldiers and hope to a criminal.

Resurrection and Recognition

• Jesus resurrects, tomb found empty by disciples.
• Story of Emmaus: Disciples fail to recognize Jesus until he breaks bread with them.
• Recognition of Jesus requires submission to his upside-down kingdom.
• Jesus' resurrection fulfills Old Testament prophecies about the Messiah.

Conclusion

• Jesus' kingdom extends beyond Israel to the nations.
• Disciples are instructed to wait for the Spirit in Jerusalem.
• Sets the stage for the continuation in the Book of Acts.