Primary Scripture: Luke 1:1-4
1 Many have undertaken to draw up an account of the things that have been fulfilled among us, 2 just as they were handed down to us by those who from the first were eyewitnesses and servants of the word. 3 With this in mind, since I myself have carefully investigated everything from the beginning, I too decided 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.

Secondary Scripture: Isaiah 61:1-3
61 The Spirit of the Sovereign Lord is on me,
because the Lord has anointed me
to proclaim good news to the poor.
He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted,
to proclaim freedom for the captives
and release from darkness for the prisoners,[a]
2 to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor
and the day of vengeance of our God,
to comfort all who mourn,
3 and provide for those who grieve in Zion—
to bestow on them a crown of beauty
instead of ashes,
the oil of joy
instead of mourning,
and a garment of praise
instead of a spirit of despair.
They will be called oaks of righteousness,
a planting of the Lord
for the display of his splendor.

Free-form Sermon Notes

Pastor Angelo’s Sermon Notes: A Gospel for the Outsiders

Key Idea:
The Gospel of Luke is a carefully written account of Jesus’ life, ministry, and mission—one that highlights His love for outsiders, the lost, and the broken. Luke writes so that we may have certainty in our faith and walk in the way of Jesus.

Main Points:

1. Why Luke? (Luke 1:1-4)

• Luke writes as a historian, theologian, and storyteller to provide an orderly account of Jesus’ life.
• His goal: “That you may know the certainty of the things you have been taught.” (Luke 1:4)
• Written for Theophilus—whose name means “lover of God”—which suggests this Gospel is for anyone seeking to know Jesus more fully.

2. The Gospel for the Outsider

• Luke highlights those on the margins—shepherds, tax collectors, women, the poor, and the sick.
• Jesus’ mission fulfills Isaiah 61:1-3: Good news to the poor, freedom for the oppressed, healing for the brokenhearted.

Fill-in #1: “The Gospel of Luke reminds us that

3. How Luke’s Gospel is Structured

• Begins with an unexpected birth narrative, showing that God works in surprising places.
• In Luke 9:51, Jesus sets His face toward Jerusalem, marking the turning point toward the cross.
• Features unique parables like the Good Samaritan, the Prodigal Son, and the Rich Man & Lazarus, which all emphasize “the Great Reversal.”

Fill-in #2: “In the Kingdom of God,

4. The Holy Spirit in Luke

• The Spirit is present from the beginning—moving in Mary, Zechariah, Elizabeth, and Simeon.
• Jesus launches His ministry by declaring: “The Spirit of the Lord is upon me.” (Luke 4:18)
• Sets the stage for Acts, where the Spirit empowers the early Church.

How to Engage with Luke During Lent

1. Commit to the 40-day reading plan—reading through Luke from Ash Wednesday to Easter.
2. Slow down and reflect—What is Jesus saying? Who is He ministering to? How does this challenge me?
3. Ask God to shape your heart—Lent is a time of repentance and renewal, a chance to align our hearts with the heart of Christ.

Reflection Questions:

1. What stands out to you about Luke’s purpose in writing this Gospel?
2. How does Jesus’ ministry to outsiders challenge the way you see others?
3. Where do you see yourself in Luke’s Gospel? Are you the outsider longing for grace? Or is Jesus calling you to extend His welcome to someone else?
4. As we journey through Lent, how can you make space for the Holy Spirit to shape your heart?

Next Steps:

✅ Start reading Luke this week on Ash Wednesday as we begin our 40-day reading plan.
✅ Take 5 minutes each day to reflect on how Jesus interacts with the people He meets.
✅ Pray for a heart that sees as Jesus sees—one that welcomes, loves, and includes.