What does Luke 1:3 teach about the reliability of Scripture? Setting the Scene in Luke 1:3 “Therefore, having carefully investigated everything from the beginning, it seemed good also to me to write an orderly account for you, most excellent Theophilus,” Four Anchors of Reliability Found in This Verse • Careful investigation – Luke “carefully investigated” (Greek: parēkolouthēkoti akribōs) every detail. Scripture values factual accuracy; it is not myth but researched history. • From the beginning – Luke traces events back to their origins (cf. Luke 1:1–2). Reliability grows when the record starts at the source, not midway. • Orderly account – The Spirit uses Luke’s ordered structure to preserve truth without contradiction (cf. 1 Corinthians 14:33). Scripture is coherent, not chaotic. • Personal dedication – Addressed to “most excellent Theophilus,” showing accountability. Real names, real people, real history cement trustworthiness. Eyewitness Foundation • Luke writes after interviewing “eyewitnesses and servants of the word” (Luke 1:2). • This mirrors John 19:35 and 2 Peter 1:16—truth grounded in firsthand testimony, not “cleverly devised myths.” Human Research, Divine Inspiration • Luke’s diligence operates under the Spirit’s superintendence (2 Timothy 3:16). • The verse illustrates God using human investigation to produce inerrant Scripture, marrying scholarship with inspiration (2 Peter 1:21). Implications for Today • Historical accuracy: The gospel rests on verifiable events (Acts 26:26). • Intellectual confidence: Believers can engage minds fully, assured Scripture withstands scrutiny. • Spiritual certainty: Because the record is orderly and researched, the faith it proclaims is sure (Luke 1:4). Conclusion—Luke 1:3 in a Sentence Luke 1:3 teaches that Scripture is wholly reliable because it is the product of meticulous research, eyewitness testimony, logical arrangement, and the guiding breath of God. |
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