SECTION II.

THE LITERARY PREFACE.

(Luke i. 1-4.)

In the preface, which is comprehended in a single, scientifically constructed, and somewhat lengthy sentence, the Evangelist addresses himself to his friend Theophilus, and commits to him the writing, which, in the first instance, he has dedicated to him.

He first indicates the sources of help which he had within his reach; states the character of liis investigation; and finally, mentions the immediate and chief object which occasioned the writing of the book.

'Forasmuch as many have taken in hand to set forth a declaration of the events which have had their accomplishment (see above, i. 209) in the midst of us (in us?), according¹ as those who were eye-witnesses from the beginning, and became ministers of the word (of these events), have delivered them unto us, it seemed good to me also, having carefully gone through the whole from the beginning (from the first beginnings), to write it for thee, most excellent² Theophilus,³ in orderly succession,⁴ that thou mightest be acquainted with the sure foundation of the doctrines in which thou hast been instructed.'

The Evangelist had thus a variety of evangelical documents in his possession. Besides this, he had received reports from original eye-witnesses of the Gospel history (also of its first commencement, the history of the childhood of Jesus). In general, he had found the documents to be in harmony with the reports. Nevertheless, from the existing material of written and oral traditions, he constructed a new work. This writing has primarily for its object to impart to a single individual, Theophilus, a Christian and personal friend of the Evangelist, a trustworthy historical foundation for his evangelical faith.

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