Luke 1:1-4
“Inasmuch as many have undertaken to compile an account of the things accomplished among us, just as they
were handed down to us by those who from the beginning were eyewitnesses and servants of the word.” (1-2)
Luke establishes criteria for his sources: 1) These sources were “from the beginning.” They had a thorough and
complete understanding of the events. 2) They were “eye witnesses.” No secondary reports, but eye witnesses. 3)
They were “servants of the word" and not self-promoters, speculators, entertainers or profiteers, but SERVANTS
of the word. Regarding this account, he recorded it in consecutive order “…so that you may know the exact truth
about the things you have been taught.” (4b). Luke is the only Gospel to make this claim. As we seek to present
God’s word, may we do so with a passion to be faithful to His word as servants of His word for the benefit of those
who hear. As we read this book it is critical we keep these foundational elements in mind.