Saint Luke (active c. 50–70 AD), the author of the Gospel of Luke and the Acts of the Apostles, was a vital figure in preserving the history of Jesus’ life and the spread of the early Church. A companion of the Apostle Paul, Luke is referred to as “the beloved physician” (Colossians 4:14). Though not one of the original disciples, Luke’s writings reflect a profound understanding of Jesus’ ministry and a commitment to the universality of the Gospel, emphasizing salvation for all people. As a Gentile, Luke provided a unique perspective, portraying God’s work among Jews and Gentiles alike.

Luke’s conversion to Christianity is not explicitly detailed, but his close relationship with Paul positioned him at the forefront of the Church’s mission to the Gentiles. He accompanied Paul on several missionary journeys and remained with him during his imprisonment in Rome (2 Timothy 4:11). Luke’s two-volume work—the Gospel of Luke and the Acts of the Apostles—was written to provide an “orderly account” (Luke 1:3–4) of Jesus’ life and the early Church’s expansion, ensuring that believers understood the certainty of these events.

The Gospel of Luke, likely written between 58 and 63 AD, focuses on Jesus’ compassion for the marginalized, His concern for the poor, and His inclusion of women in His ministry. Luke uniquely records parables such as the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25–37) and the Prodigal Son (Luke 15:11–32), which reveal God’s mercy and boundless grace. The nativity accounts in Luke are among the most beloved in the Christian tradition, detailing the angelic announcement to the shepherds (Luke 2:8–20) and the canticles of Mary (Luke 1:46–55), Zechariah (Luke 1:68–79), and Simeon (Luke 2:29–32). His Gospel also emphasizes prayer, the role of the Holy Spirit, and the joy of salvation.

The Acts of the Apostles, written between 63 and 70 AD, chronicles the work of the Holy Spirit in the early Church. Luke highlights the pivotal events of Pentecost, the bold witness of the apostles, and the spread of the Gospel from Jerusalem to the ends of the Roman Empire. His detailed accounts of Paul’s missionary journeys reflect Luke’s firsthand experience and dedication to preserving the history of the Church’s mission. Through these narratives, Luke underscores the power of the resurrection and the unity of believers across cultural and ethnic boundaries.

Luke’s writings are marked by their theological depth and historical precision. His Gospel provides powerful evidence for the resurrection, emphasizing eyewitness testimony and transformative encounters with the risen Christ. His portrayal of Jesus emphasizes both His divinity and His compassion for humanity, offering a comprehensive picture of God’s redemptive work. By presenting Jesus as the Savior of all people, Luke reinforced the Church’s mission to bring the Gospel to every nation.

Tradition suggests that Luke lived to an old age and may have died as a martyr, though the details of his death are uncertain. His legacy, however, is clear. Through his careful research and vivid storytelling, Luke invites readers to encounter the living Christ and embrace the joy of salvation. His writings challenge believers to trust in God’s compassion, live in the power of the Spirit, and proclaim the Good News to all nations.