I've been reading an inspiring book recently. Only 24 chapters long, it’s a historical biography - packed with action, mystery & supernatural activity, and it really encourages me in my faith!

It’s the Gospel of Luke, from the New Testament of the bible.

The author, Luke, although not one of the original disciples, was very much part of the early church.  Referred to by Paul as "the beloved physician" (Col 4:14) and "my fellow worker" (Philemon 1:24) he was clearly a well-educated & observant writer.  He spoke to many who had been with Jesus to get the details correct, as he writes in his introduction to Theophilus, an influential Gentile believer; - With this in mind, since I myself have carefully investigated everything from the beginning, I too decided to write an orderly account for you, most excellent Theophilus, so that you may know the certainty of the things you have been taught (Luke 1:3-4)

At Winchester Vineyard Church we’re reading through Luke to better understand Jesus’ ministry and message, and we have noticed that three key themes re-occur right through the book.

The first is that ‘Outsiders’ are welcomed into God's Kingdom - from the shepherds as the first nativity guests, to the healing of the centurion's servant, Zacchaeus the tax collector and the parables of the good Samaritan and prodigal son. Jesus deliberately pays attention to those who are lost, weak, sick, marginalised by society & those who have messed up or made themselves ‘unclean’. He also challenges the Jewish elite who believe they are already 'insiders' by virtue of keeping the law.  With incredible love and a complete lack of judgement, Jesus always lands on the side of those who find themselves on the outside of things.

The second key theme is that Jesus has come to bring Spiritual Freedom from Satan's captivity.  He describes a direct power showdown in the wilderness, healing the sick & driving out evil spirits, a demonised man and the herd of pigs, and Jesus’ inevitable path to the cross. With echoes of the Exodus from Egypt, Jesus has come to bring people who are trapped & oppressed out of spiritual captivity and into freedom & life.

Lastly, Luke presents key teaching on Following God, showing how to live out Jesus 'upside-down' kingdom values.  There’s particular wisdom around prayer, trust, wealth & possessions. He also describes Jesus’ sadness for those who choose not to embrace God's Kingdom through Jesus (both personally & as a nation). 

Throughout the entire narrative, as Jesus’ disciples slowly learn to minister & teach, his increasing confrontations ultimately lead to the dramatic events of Easter.  Post-resurrection, Jesus promises that the Holy Spirit will empower the church to continue his kingdom work - and that’s the story Luke picks up in his second book - the Acts of the Apostles.

You can catch up on the Vineyard perspective on Luke’s gospel via our YouTube channel, but if you haven’t actually read it recently, I can thoroughly recommend this short but radical book to encourage, challenge and maybe even shake up your faith.

Nigel Hemming

Senior Pastor of Winchester Vineyard Church