The major question before Luke’s congregation is how can we survive as worshipers of Jesus when the Empire will execute us for not worshiping Caesar? This is a treacherous time. Roman inquisitions led many to the lions, and Jews (as early Christians were thought to be) were naturally suspected because of their revolt in Judea where the temple was destroyed.
Luke paints a picture of the Jesus Movement (with the help of his companion volume, Acts) as one that practices benevolence, is non-violent, and gives deference to Roman officials, producing great benefit to society. But he also undermines the Roman worldview by subtle comparisons of it with the kingdom of God. We will follow how Luke weaves these themes through his Gospel and find parallels with how Jesus’ followers of today can successfully navigate our world.
AVAILABLE February 15, 2023