NATIVITY By Mike Herron

most of whom are still alive…’ The accounts of the Birth of Jesus in Luke’s Gospel indicate that he most likely had a direct interview with Mary, the Lord’s mother. His detailed version of the story of the two followers of Jesus on the road to Emmaus supposes that it was an eyewitness account by them.

3 …most excellent Theophilus, 4 so that you may know

the certainty of the things you have been taught.

Theophilus means ‘dear to God, or lover of God.’ 6 The word ‘excellent’ was a title reserved for Roman political officials or other people of advanced social status. Luke’s use of the word ‘taught, ’ (catechumens , ) indicate that Theophilus was being instructed in a class prior to his baptism into the Christian faith. The introduction has one main purpose, to address the mental state of Theophilus and provide for his soul and mind ‘that the faith he has embraced has an impregnable historical foundation.’ 7 . Although intended for one person, the benefit of Luke’s Book has transcended the ages and touched the hearts of countless individuals.