Luke 1:1

Berean Standard Bible
Many have undertaken to compose an account of the things that have been fulfilled among us,
 
King James Bible
Forasmuch as many have taken in hand to set forth in order a declaration of those things which are most surely believed among us,
 
NET Bible
Now many have undertaken to compile an account of the things that have been fulfilled among us,
 
Greek Text:
 Ἐπειδήπερ πολλοὶ ἐπεχείρησαν ἀνατάξασθαι διήγησιν περὶ τῶν πεπληροφορημένων ἐν ἡμῖν πραγμάτων
 
Transliteration:
Epeidēper polloi epecheirēsan anataksasthai diēgēsin peri tōn peplērophorēmenōn en hēmin pragmatōn
 
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Study Bible:
 
Inasmuch as many have undertaken
The opening phrase of Luke 1:1 sets the stage for the Gospel by acknowledging the efforts of others who have attempted to document the life and teachings of Jesus Christ. The Greek word translated as "inasmuch" (ἐπειδήπερ, epeidēper) suggests a sense of continuity and connection with previous works. This indicates that Luke is aware of other narratives and is positioning his account within a broader tradition of Gospel writing. Historically, this reflects the early Christian community's desire to preserve the teachings of Jesus accurately and comprehensively.
 
to compile a narrative
The phrase "to compile a narrative" (ἀνατάξασθαι διήγησιν, anataksasthai diēgēsin) highlights Luke's intention to organize and present an orderly account. The Greek word "διήγησιν" (diēgēsin) implies a detailed and systematic recounting of events. This suggests that Luke's Gospel is not merely a collection of accounts but a carefully structured account aimed at conveying theological truths. The historical context of this endeavor reflects the importance of written records in the early church for teaching and preserving the faith.
 
about the things
The phrase "about the things" (περὶ τῶν πραγμάτων, peri tōn pragmatōn) refers to the events and teachings concerning Jesus Christ. The Greek word "πραγμάτων" (pragmatōn) can be understood as "matters" or "things," indicating the tangible and significant nature of the Gospel's content. This underscores the reality and historicity of the events Luke is about to describe, affirming the Christian belief in the incarnation and the tangible impact of Jesus' ministry.
 
that have been fulfilled
The phrase "that have been fulfilled" (πεπληροφορημένων, peplērophorēmenōn) is crucial in understanding Luke's theological perspective. The Greek verb "πεπληροφορημένων" (peplērophorēmenōn) suggests completion and fulfillment, indicating that the events of Jesus' life are the realization of God's promises and prophecies. This reflects a key theme in Luke's Gospel: the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies and the unfolding of God's redemptive plan through Jesus Christ.
 
among us
The concluding phrase "among us" (ἐν ἡμῖν, en hēmin) emphasizes the communal and experiential aspect of the Gospel message. The Greek phrase "ἐν ἡμῖν" (en hēmin) suggests that the events Luke describes were not distant or abstract but occurred within the community of believers. This highlights the early Christian conviction that the Gospel is not just historical fact but a living reality that continues to impact and transform the lives of believers. It underscores the communal nature of the faith and the shared experience of God's work in the world.
 
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Commentary:
 
Authorship and Historical Context:
 
The author, traditionally identified as Luke, a physician and companion of Paul, is addressing his work to Theophilus, which means "lover of God" in Greek. Theophilus could be an individual or symbolic of all believers.
 
Purpose of Writing:
 
Luke states that many have already attempted to write accounts of the life and ministry of Jesus. This indicates that by the time Luke was writing, there were already several narratives or accounts circulating about Jesus' life, teachings, death, and resurrection.
 
Methodology:
 
Luke's use of "compile a narrative" suggests that he is not just recounting stories but is engaging in a form of historical investigation or journalism. He is aiming to provide an orderly and accurate account. This is further emphasized in Luke 1:3 where he mentions having followed all things closely for some time.
 
Theological Implications:
 
By saying "things that have been accomplished among us," Luke is hinting at the divine orchestration behind these events. The Greek word translated as "accomplished" (πεπληροφορημένων, peplērophorēmenōn) can imply fulfillment or completion, suggesting these events fulfill prophecies or divine plans.
 
Literary Style:
 
This opening sentence is written in a sophisticated Greek style, which was common for historical writing at the time, aiming to convey a sense of credibility and scholarly intent.
 
In essence, Luke 1:1 sets the stage for a detailed, researched narrative of Jesus Christ's life, aiming to confirm the faith of the reader and provide a factual basis for the events described in Christian tradition. Luke's approach is methodical, aiming to assure his audience of the reliability of his account through careful investigation and compilation of existing sources.