"The Gospel of Luke"

  1. What are some significant similarities and differences between Jesus and Socrates?  (one paragraph; two quotations, one from Luke and one from one of the Socrates's texts, "The Cave" or (more likely) "The Apology")

    Jesus and Socrates are similar because they challenged society's beliefs with their
    own beliefs. They were both extremely passionate about spreading the truth to people
    and convincing people to live a simple life where people do not value materials. They
    wanted the people to pursue knowledge and wisdom. One of the key differences between Socrates and Jesus is their focus: Jesus focused on teaching people about God believing in him, and forgiving these people who did believe in him. He wanted to show that people could be forgiven if they were to believe in god, using kindness and forgiveness. Jesus says: "Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing" (Luke 23:34). On the other hand Socrates focused and challenged people's wisdom. Socrates says "The unexamined life is not worth living" (Apology 38a). Socrates believed that life should be about self-awareness and reflection. He believes that people should always reflect on their choices and always pursue wisdom. He also believes that people should seek knowledge to grow spiritually and understand themself and the world around them. He says that if we examine the world and the people around us we are able to increase our wisdom and make life more meaningful by the choices we make.

  2. Is the Gospel of Luke attempting to be historical (in a way that Genesis is not)?  Is it important one way or another?  In other words, does it matter whether Jesus was a real historical figure or not? (one paragraph; quote at least once)

    The Gospel of Luke is based on the story of Jesus, all thought that the events are not
    based on real events, but its main point is to tell the true story of Jesus. According to
    Luck, “Since I myself have carefully investigated everything from the beginning, I too
    decided to write an orderly account for you, most excellent Theophilus, so that you may
    know the certainty of the things you have been taught”(1:3-4). The story is meant to be
    accurate like a historical record to show Jesues lived and brought peace to the people
    around him. This is important because if Jesus was not real and was just a made-up
    character it would affect the Christians who believe in Jesus and follow him.

  3. Read Matthew’s “Sermon on the Mount” (Matthew 5: 3-10) alongside Luke’s “Sermon on the Plain” (Luke 6: 20-26).  Considering the term "blessed" essentially means "happy," these two passages are the Christian Bible's clearest statements about happiness.  But what are these two famous passages saying about happiness --- and do they make sense in any rational way?  (one paragraph; quote twice, once from each text)

."Sermon on the Mount" and Luke’s "Sermon on the Plain" both explain the major
difference between someone who is spiritually connected with God vs someone who
values materials and success and lacks that connection with god. In Matthew, it says that
the “blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven”(Matthew 5:3).
This quote shows that the happiest people are the ones who are poor, indicating that
happiness comes from being humble and believing in god. On the other hand, Luke talks
about blessing in terms of a physical circumstance, it states that "Blessed are you who
are poor, for yours is the kingdom of God" (Luke 6:20). In this quote Jesus says that the
people who are poor and lack money are still considered blessed because they are
blessed by god. Indicating happens is not based on the wealth of a person, but it’s based
on their connection with god.

notes:

The Gospel of Luke and Luke’s Background

  • Luke was a physician and a companion of St. Paul.

  • Purpose of Luke's Gospel:

    • To present an argument that Christ’s message is for all people, not just Jews.

    • To make a case that Christianity is not a threat to the Roman Empire.

      • Jesus’ kingdom is “not of this world,” meaning Christians are not attempting to overthrow the Roman Empire.

    • To reassure Jewish followers of Jesus who were awaiting the second coming.

    • To offer comfort to Christians after the destruction of Jerusalem (70 AD).

Sermon on the Plain / Mount: Christianity and Happiness

  • “Blessed are you” can be interpreted as “Happy are you when/if…”

    • Both versions of the sermon provide insights into true happiness—not through random statements, but through profound insights into human nature.

    • The teachings address things that often trap people in dissatisfaction and unhappiness.

      • Poor in spirit: “Happy are you when you are not attached to (or craving) material things.”

      • Meek: “Happy are you when you are not addicted to or craving power.”