Luke 1:1 Many have undertaken to draw up an account of the things that have been fulfilled among us,… 3 Therefore, since I myself have carefully investigated everything from the beginning, it seemed good also to me to write an orderly account for you, most excellent Theophilus, 4 so that you may know the certainty of the things you have been taught.
As Luke begins his story of Jesus he address it to someone called Theophilus. Now, if this is a literal person, we know nothing more about him than that he is the target audience for this Gospel and the Book of Acts. (Acts 1:1) But the name means “Lover of God” and I believe that this is not an individual at all. Luke is writing specifically to those who love God.
You see, Luke understands that not everyone can receive what he’s about to share. For one thing, it’s a fantastic story, and in order to embrace it one must have already begun to discover that there is something fantastic at the heart of reality. As C. S. Lewis once wrote, “Besides being complicated, reality, in my experience, is usually odd. It is not neat, not obvious, not what you expect…” And so Luke writes to those who, having discovered this, are already under the influence of that Something or Someone at the heart of all things.
And, for another thing, this is a terrible story. The central character, Jesus, is the Suffering Servant of God. He is the Good Shepherd, who lays down his life for the sheep. And, in the end, he invites his followers to do likewise. Who but Theophilus, the one who is already in love with God, can seriously consider such a thing? Who but Theophilus can look unflinchingly at Jesus, see clearly the cost of discipleship, and then take up his or her own cross and follow him?
Love is not blind; that is the last thing that it is. Love is bound; and the more it is bound the less it is blind. – G. K. Chesterton
2 comments:
This is a really good point, I think. I'd be interested in knowing how this view that one must love God before one can come to understand God's self-revelation effects your view of the Church. What role does it play in forming people's love and preparing them to receive the meaning of Scripture?
Nathan
Re: Nathan
Interesting question and I will need to give it some considerable thought. But I think we can say, at least, that the church must model a life of love to God, one another, and even our enemies. We must teach and encourage love wherever we find it. And the influence of the church will not be in power but, like Jesus, in humble, loving service. (Philippians 2:5-8)
Dan
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