Luke 1:4
That thou mightest know the certainty of those things, wherein thou hast been instructed.
Original Language Analysis
ἐπιγνῷς
thou mightest know
G1921
ἐπιγνῷς
thou mightest know
Strong's:
G1921
Word #:
2 of 8
to know upon some mark, i.e., recognize; by implication, to become fully acquainted with, to acknowledge
περὶ
of
G4012
περὶ
of
Strong's:
G4012
Word #:
3 of 8
properly, through (all over), i.e., around; figuratively with respect to; used in various applications, of place, cause or time (with the genitive cas
ὧν
wherein
G3739
ὧν
wherein
Strong's:
G3739
Word #:
4 of 8
the relatively (sometimes demonstrative) pronoun, who, which, what, that
κατηχήθης
thou hast been instructed
G2727
κατηχήθης
thou hast been instructed
Strong's:
G2727
Word #:
5 of 8
to sound down into the ears, i.e., (by implication) to indoctrinate ("catechize") or (genitive case) to apprise of
λόγων
those things
G3056
λόγων
those things
Strong's:
G3056
Word #:
6 of 8
something said (including the thought); by implication, a topic (subject of discourse), also reasoning (the mental faculty) or motive; by extension, a
Cross References
John 20:31But these are written, that ye might believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God; and that believing ye might have life through his name.Acts 18:25This man was instructed in the way of the Lord; and being fervent in the spirit, he spake and taught diligently the things of the Lord, knowing only the baptism of John.
Historical Context
Early Christian catechesis involved systematic instruction in the faith before baptism. Luke's Gospel served to provide documented certainty for what Theophilus had been taught orally, establishing a written foundation for Christian doctrine.
Questions for Reflection
- How does the historical certainty of the Gospel provide assurance of salvation?
- What role does sound doctrine play in establishing believers in the faith?
- How can you grow in certainty of the things you have been taught about Christ?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
The purpose statement reveals Luke's pastoral concern: 'that thou mightest know the certainty' (Greek 'asphaleia' - security, firmness). Christian faith rests on historical facts, not subjective experience or philosophical speculation. The word 'catechized' (katechethes) indicates Theophilus had received instruction but needed confirmation. This establishes the biblical pattern of teaching leading to assurance, grounded in objective historical events of Christ's life, death, and resurrection.