Gospel of Luke facts for kids
The Gospel of Luke is an important book found in the Bible. It is one of the four gospels, which are special books that tell us about the life of Jesus. The Gospel of Luke shares stories about what Jesus taught and the amazing things he did. It is the third book in the New Testament, coming after the Gospel of Matthew and the Gospel of Mark.
Many people believe that Luke wrote this gospel. Luke was a doctor and a good friend of Apostle Paul, who was another important person in early Christianity. Luke wrote his gospel for someone named 'Theophilus'. He also wrote another book in the New Testament called the Acts of the Apostles. This book tells us what Jesus' followers did after Jesus went back to Heaven.
Unlike the other gospel writers, Luke was probably not Jewish. He was likely Greek. He wrote his gospel especially for people who were not Jewish, often called Gentiles. Luke wanted to show everyone that Jesus is truly the Son of God. His gospel includes many well-known stories about Jesus. It also tells us more about the Virgin birth of Jesus than the other gospels.
Contents
Who Was Luke and Why Did He Write?
Luke was a very thoughtful writer. He was a doctor, which means he was good at observing details. He wanted to make sure his readers knew the true story of Jesus. He wrote his gospel for a person named Theophilus, which means "friend of God." This suggests he wrote for anyone who wanted to learn more about Jesus.
Luke carefully researched everything. He spoke to people who had seen Jesus and his followers. He wanted to give a clear and accurate account of Jesus' life.
What Makes Luke's Gospel Special?
The Gospel of Luke is known for several unique things:
- More about Jesus' Birth: Luke tells us many details about the birth of Jesus and his early life. This includes stories about Mary, Jesus' mother, and the angels visiting the shepherds.
- Stories for Everyone: Luke wrote for both Jewish and non-Jewish people. He showed that Jesus' message was for everyone, no matter where they came from.
- Focus on Outcasts: Luke often highlights stories where Jesus helps people who were ignored or looked down upon by society. This includes the poor, women, and those who were sick.
- Parables: Luke's Gospel has many famous parables (stories with a moral lesson). Examples include the Parable of the Good Samaritan and the Parable of the Prodigal Son. These stories teach us about kindness, forgiveness, and God's love.
- Prayer and the Holy Spirit: Luke often shows Jesus praying. He also talks a lot about the Holy Spirit, which is God's power working in people.
Luke and the Acts of the Apostles
Luke wrote two books in the New Testament. The Gospel of Luke tells us about Jesus' life on Earth. The Acts of the Apostles continues the story. It describes what happened after Jesus went back to Heaven. It shows how Jesus' followers, led by the apostles, spread his message around the world. These two books together give us a full picture of the early Christian movement.
Related pages
Images for kids
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Papyrus 45, a 3rd-century AD Greek papyrus of the Gospel of Luke
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Parable of the Sower (Biserica Ortodoxă din Deal, Cluj-Napoca), Romania)
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Annunciation (Murillo)
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Supper at Emmaus (1601), Caravaggio, National Gallery
See also
In Spanish: Evangelio de Lucas para niños