Let's Study Luke is described as part of a series of non-technical commentaries designed for personal or group use and, though not stated, it would seem to be written with younger believers in mind. The commentary provides us with introductory chapters on Luke the individual, the reasons why he wrote his Gospel, its specific theme,
and how we should read it today. This is followed by a brief outline of the Gospel's contents.

The commentary itself is based on the text of the English Standard version 2001. The writer's method is to take a short passage and make between two and four pages of comments upon it. His stated aim is laudable, to get the individual or study group to see what the text actually says. Some brief practical applications are set out in bullet point form, though not all the passages have these. Questions for group study and discussion are appended to each section at the back of the book. The scheme for group study covers a period of 26 weeks.

The book is written in a plain modern style and, read carefully, provides useful background, giving both help in understanding the text and useful spiritual insights. At times the writer says a great deal in a few lines; at other times he raises stimulating questions and embarks upon larger issues that are not answered or resolved. One particularly helpful piece of application for me personally came in relation to the account of the disciples on the Emmaus Road (Luke 24: 32-35).

"As we have tried to show, the Emmaus story is a kind of typology of the Christian life. Christians struggle with their faith and doubts in the face of negative experiences in a hostile world. But Christ himself waits on the Christian and refreshes every believer through the power of his word. He also makes himself known periodically through the providences of daily life when we least expect him. Also through the company of like-minded believers hearts are warmed and faith revived as personal testimony is shared in the light of truth. In all three ways Christ keeps his own and leads them safely to heaven."

It is clear that the writer is committed to the Reformed Faith. He is at pains to make it clear to unbelievers reading the book for themselves, or taking part in the group Bible studies, that Luke's message is this. Man is a sinner in need of a Saviour, and Jesus Christ's purpose in coming into the world
"was to seek and to save that which was lost".

Roland Burrows