Luke and Theophilus

Title: Luke and Theophilus
Speaker: Peter Goodrich
Date: 8th February 2026
Location: Adelaide, Australia

This episode follows the account of Luke writing to Theophilus, a man who appears sincere and thoughtful, yet lacking full certainty. Through Luke’s careful retelling of Christ’s life, the message centres on how God meets people in that gap between belief and confidence, not with condemnation, but with truth, patience and purpose.  

Drawing on the widow of Zarephath, Simon carrying the cross, and the father who cried, “Lord, I believe; help thou mine unbelief,” the episode shows that faith is often formed in pressure, grief and unanswered questions. It points clearly to the purpose of Christ’s death and resurrection: that people from every background might receive the Holy Ghost and find real assurance in God.

3 Takeaways

• Luke’s writings to Theophilus show that God takes uncertainty seriously and answers it through the life and purpose of Jesus Christ.
• The gospel is not limited by status, background or worthiness; it reaches those who feel outside, overlooked or unsure.
• The goal of the gospel account is not mere information, but a life changed through the Holy Ghost, baptism, and confidence in Christ.

Reference Scriptures Used

• Luke 1:1–4
• Luke 4:16–30
• 1 Kings 17:10–24
• Luke 23:26
• Luke 24:49
• Acts 1:1, 5, 8
• Acts 10:44–48
• Mark 9:21–24