Gospel of Luke 1–11 Flashcards
What sources of information does the author of Luke indicate he has access to in Luke 1:1–4, and how might this relate to the synoptic problem?
Luke refers to “eyewitnesses” and “servants of the word” who handed down information (Luke 1:2). He aims to provide an “orderly account” (Luke 1:3). This suggests reliance on both oral and possibly written sources, which is relevant to the synoptic problem by indicating Luke may have drawn on common sources with other Gospels, like Mark or hypothetical Q source.
Based on Cartlidge and Dungan’s categories, is Jesus portrayed as an “eternal” or “immortal” god in Luke? Provide specific verses and compare with Paul’s view.
Jesus is depicted as eternal through divine attributes and miraculous origins (Luke 1:32–33, 1:35). He is shown as “Son of the Most High,” indicating a divine status that aligns with “eternal” gods. Paul’s view (e.g., Philippians 2:6–11) also highlights Jesus’ divine status but focuses on humility and incarnation, contrasting with the heroic imagery often ascribed to “immortal” gods.
What unusual events are associated with Jesus’s conception and birth in Luke, and how do these compare to Cartlidge and Dungan’s stories of divine births?
Events include the angel Gabriel’s announcement to Mary (Luke 1:26–38), Elizabeth’s miraculous pregnancy (Luke 1:24–25), and John’s reaction in the womb (Luke 1:41). These align with divine birth stories in Cartlidge and Dungan, like miraculous conceptions, but differ in their focus on humility and prophecy rather than heroic feats.
Are there stories of unusual abilities in Jesus’s youth in Luke, and how do these compare to similar stories in Cartlidge and Dungan?
Luke 2:41–52 describes Jesus astonishing temple teachers with his understanding at age twelve. This aligns with Cartlidge and Dungan’s themes of child prodigies, though Jesus’ actions are humble and rooted in religious wisdom rather than physical prowess, contrasting with stories of heroic feats by young deities.
What supernatural powers does Jesus demonstrate as an adult in Luke, and how do these stories compare to adult powers discussed in Cartlidge and Dungan?
Jesus performs healings, exorcisms, and commands nature (e.g., calming a storm, Luke 8:22–25; healing the sick, Luke 5:12–26). These align with divine figures in Cartlidge and Dungan but differ in that Jesus’ miracles serve to demonstrate divine compassion and fulfill prophecies, not merely heroic power or prestige.
