D. The Baptism of Jesus (3:1–4:13)
Theological Themes), Luke repeatedly related accounts of Gentiles, Samaritans, and other outcasts who found grace in Jesus' eyes. This emphasis is precisely what we would expect from a close companion of the "Apostle to the Gentiles" (Rom. 11:13).
Yet some critics have claimed to see a wide gap between Luke's theology and that of Paul. It is true that Luke's Gospel is practically devoid of terminology that is uniquely Pauline. Luke wrote with his own style. Yet the underlying theology is perfectly in harmony with that of the apostle's. The centerpiece of Paul's doctrine was justification by faith (see note on Rom. 3:24). Luke also highlighted and illustrated justification by faith in many of the incidents and parables he related, chiefly the account of the Pharisee and the publican (Luke 18:9–14); the familiar story of the Prodigal Son (15:11–32); the incident at Simon's house (7:36–50); and the salvation of Zacchaeus (19:1–10).
Outline
I. The Prelude to Christ's Ministry (1:1–4:13)
A. Preamble (1:1–4)
B. The Birth of Jesus (1:5–2:38)
1. The annunciation to Zechariah (1:5–25) 2. The annunciation to Mary (1:26–38) 3. The visitation (1:39–45) 4. The Magnificat (1:46–56) 5. The birth of the forerunner (1:57–80) 6. The nativity (2:1–38) C. The Boyhood of Jesus (2:39–52)
1. In Nazareth (2:39–40) 2. In the temple (2:41–50) 3. In his family (2:51–52) D. The Baptism of Jesus (3:1–4:13)
1. The preaching of John the Baptist (3:1–20) 2. The testimony of heaven (3:21–22) 3. The genealogy of the Son of Man (3:23–38)