Bible Strands
Luke 1:3
Therefore, having carefully investigated everything from the beginning, it seemed good also to me to write an orderly account for you, most excellent Theophilus,
Berean Standard Bible
Follow its threads on the canvas →
Study note
Setting — The author addresses Theophilus, titled "most excellent," at the close of his historical prologue to explain his compositional method. He writes this after surveying the reports passed down by initial eyewitnesses and servants of the word.
The words — The Greek term ἄνωθεν (anōthen) means "from the first," and καθεξῆς (kathexēs) translates to "with method." These words define the chronological scope and logical structure of the proposed narrative.
The thread — This commitment to careful inquiry and orderly composition echoes the author's earlier work in Acts 1:1 and aligns with the Teacher's method in Ecclesiastes 12:9 of pondering and arranging knowledge. The formal address also parallels Paul's courtroom declaration to Festus in Acts 26:25.
Why it lands — The text demands that a reader verify the historical grounding and logical structure of the account before accepting its claims. It requires the audience to approach the narrative as a documented investigation rather than an unverified tradition.
Drafted by a language model from the text, its original words and its cross-references, then checked against them. It can still be wrong: open the verse in the app to report it.
The Greek words
King James Version
It seemed good to me also, having had perfect understanding of all things from the very first, to write unto thee in order, most excellent Theophilus,
Cross-references
- Acts 1:1 In my first book, O Theophilus, I wrote about all that Jesus began to do and to teach,
- Acts 26:25 But Paul answered, “I am not insane, most excellent Festus; I am speaking words of truth and sobriety.
- Ecclesiastes 12:9 Not only was the Teacher wise, but he also taught the people knowledge; he pondered, searched out, and arranged many proverbs.
- Acts 11:4 But Peter began and explained to them the whole sequence of events:
- Acts 15:19 It is my judgment, therefore, that we should not cause trouble for the Gentiles who are turning to God.
- Acts 23:26 Claudius Lysias, To His Excellency, Governor Felix: Greetings.
- Acts 24:3 In every way and everywhere, most excellent Felix, we acknowledge this with all gratitude.
- Luke 1:1 Many have undertaken to compose an account of the things that have been fulfilled among us,
- Acts 15:25 So we all agreed to choose men to send to you along with our beloved Barnabas and Paul,
- Psalms 40:5 Many, O LORD my God, are the wonders You have done, and the plans You have for us—none can compare to You—if I proclaim and declare them, they are more than I can count.