Luke Λουκᾶς

Male G3065 4 books

Physician; companion of Paul; author of Luke and Acts

Who is Luke in the Bible?

Luke was a physician and close companion of the apostle Paul who authored the Gospel of Luke and the Book of Acts. Though not named in these works themselves, early church tradition unanimously attributes both books to him. Paul refers to Luke affectionately as "the beloved physician" in Colossians 4:14 and mentions him as a faithful fellow worker in Philippians 1:24 and 2 Timothy 4:11. Luke accompanied Paul on several missionary journeys, as indicated by the "we" passages throughout Acts, and remained with Paul during his Roman imprisonment. His dual background as both a medical professional and educated writer made him uniquely suited to document the life of Christ and the early church's expansion with both compassion and historical precision.

Biography

Luke was a physician (Col.4.14) and a close companion of the apostle Paul (2Ti.4.11; Phm.1.24). He is best known as the author of the Gospel of Luke and the Book of Acts. Although not mentioned by name in these books, early church tradition unanimously attributes them to Luke. His writings suggest that he was well-educated and had a keen eye for historical detail. Luke accompanied Paul on several missionary journeys, as evidenced by the "we" passages in Acts (Act.16.10-17; 20.5-21.18; 27.1-28.16). He remained with Paul during his imprisonment in Rome (2Ti.4.11). In Paul's letters, Luke is described as a beloved friend and fellow worker in the gospel (Col.4.14; Phm.1.24). His medical background may have been helpful during Paul's travels and ministry. Luke's Gospel emphasizes the humanity of Jesus, His compassion for the marginalized, and the universal scope of His message. The Book of Acts records the growth of the early church and the spread of the gospel from Jerusalem to Rome.

In Scripture

4 biblical books ; 2 with study content
2 Corinthians 2 verses
  • 2 Corinthians 13:13

    "All the saints send you greetings."

  • 2 Corinthians 13:14

    "The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with all of you."

Colossians 1 verse
2 Timothy 1 verse
  • 2 Timothy 4:11

    "Only Luke is with me. Get Mark and bring him with you, because he is useful to me in the ministry."

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Philemon 1 verse
  • Philemon 1:24

    "as do Mark, Aristarchus, Demas, and Luke, my fellow workers."

Names & Aliases

Form Language Script Transliteration Meaning
Named Greek Λουκᾶς Loukâs Lucas, a Christian