I. Titles and Descriptions of Jesus:;xNLx;;xNLx;Savior (e.g., Luke 1:47; 2:11): One who rescues or delivers from danger, sin, and death. Luke particularly emphasizes Jesus as the Savior of all people, bringing salvation to both Jews and Gentiles.;xNLx;Christ / Messiah (Greek: Christos; Hebrew: Mashiach) (e.g., Luke 2:11, 26; 3:15; 4:41; 9:20; 20:41; 22:67; 23:2, 35, 39; 24:26, 46): Meaning "Anointed One." The promised deliverer from the line of David who would establish God's kingdom. Luke affirms Jesus as this Messiah.;xNLx;Son of God (e.g., Luke 1:32, 35; 3:22, 38 ["son of Adam, son of God"]; 4:3, 9, 41; 8:28; 9:35; 10:22; 22:70): A title emphasizing Jesus' unique, divine relationship with God the Father, His divine nature, and His authority.;xNLx;Son of Man (e.g., Luke 5:24; 6:5, 22; 7:34; 9:22, 26, 44, 56 [KJV/TR, not modern ESV], 58; 11:30; 12:8, 10, 40; 17:22, 24, 26, 30; 18:8, 31; 19:10; 21:27, 36; 22:22, 48, 69; 24:7): Jesus' most frequent self-designation. In Luke, it highlights His humanity, His mission to seek and save the lost, His authority (to forgive sins, as Lord of the Sabbath), His impending suffering, death, and resurrection, and His future glorious return in judgment.;xNLx;Lord (Greek: Kyrios) (e.g., Luke 1:6, 9, 11, 15-17, 25, 28, 32, 38, 43, 45-46, 58, 66, 68, 76; 2:9, 11, 15, 22-24, 26, 39; and frequently throughout when referring to God or Jesus): A term that can mean "sir," "master," or significantly refer to God (as in Old Testament quotations). When applied to Jesus, especially after events like the resurrection or in narrative comments by Luke, it affirms His divine authority, sovereignty, and deity. Luke uses it for Jesus more frequently as the narrative progresses.;xNLx;Son of the Most High (Luke 1:32): A title given to Jesus by the angel Gabriel, signifying His divine sonship and supreme honor.;xNLx;Horn of salvation (Luke 1:69): A metaphor used in Zechariah's prophecy (the Benedictus) referring to a mighty and powerful savior (Jesus) whom God has raised up from the house of David. A "horn" symbolizes strength.;xNLx;II. Jewish Religious Groups, Leaders, Practices, and Places:;xNLx;;xNLx;Priest (e.g., Luke 1:5 [Zechariah]; 1:8-9; 5:14; 6:4; 10:31; 17:14): Descendants of Aaron who served in the Temple, offering sacrifices and performing other religious duties.;xNLx;High Priest (e.g., Luke 3:2; 22:4, 50, 54; 23:4, 13 [implied with chief priests]): The highest-ranking religious official in Judaism. Annas and Caiaphas are mentioned as high priests during the time of Jesus' ministry and trial.;xNLx;Chief Priests (e.g., Luke 9:22; 19:47; 20:1, 19; 22:2, 4, 50, 52, 66; 23:4, 10, 13; 24:20): The leading members of the priesthood in Jerusalem, who held significant religious and political power and were key figures in Jesus' opposition and crucifixion.;xNLx;Scribes (e.g., Luke 5:21, 30; 6:7; 9:22; 11:44 [ESV: "lawyers"], 53; 15:2; 19:47; 20:1, 19, 39, 46; 22:2, 66; 23:10): Experts in the Jewish Law (Torah), responsible for interpreting, teaching, and copying it. They often allied with the chief priests and Pharisees in opposing Jesus.;xNLx;Lawyers / Experts in the law (Greek: nomikos) (e.g., Luke 7:30; 10:25; 11:45-46, 52; 14:3): Similar to scribes, these were individuals learned in the Mosaic Law and its interpretation, often engaging Jesus in legal and theological discussions.;xNLx;Pharisees (e.g., Luke 5:17, 21, 30, 33; 6:2, 7; 7:30, 36-39; 11:37-44, 53; 12:1; 13:31; 14:1, 3; 15:2; 16:14; 17:20; 18:10-11; 19:39): A prominent Jewish religious sect known for their strict observance of both the written Law and oral traditions. Luke often portrays their self-righteousness and conflict with Jesus, particularly regarding table fellowship with sinners and Sabbath observance, though some Pharisees are shown in a more neutral or even positive light (e.g., warning Jesus).;xNLx;Sadducees (Luke 20:27): A Jewish sect, largely composed of the priestly aristocracy, who accepted only the written Law and denied the resurrection, angels, and spirits. They challenge Jesus on the topic of resurrection.;xNLx;Elders (e.g., Luke 7:3; 9:22; 15:25 [older son]; 20:1; 22:52, 66): Respected leaders within the Jewish community, often part of the Sanhedrin.;xNLx;Sanhedrin / Council (Implied in gatherings of chief priests, scribes, and elders, e.g., Luke 22:66): The supreme Jewish religious and judicial body in Jerusalem.;xNLx;Synagogue (e.g., Luke 4:15-16, 20, 28, 33, 38, 44; 6:6; 7:5; 8:41; 11:43; 12:11; 13:10; 20:46; 21:12): A Jewish place of assembly for worship, prayer, and the reading and teaching of the Scriptures. Jesus regularly taught in synagogues.;xNLx;Ruler of the synagogue (Luke 8:41, 49; 13:14): An official responsible for overseeing the synagogue services and administration.;xNLx;Temple (e.g., Luke 1:9, 21-22; 2:22, 27, 37, 41, 45-46, 49; 4:9; 18:10; 19:45, 47; 20:1; 21:1, 5, 37-38; 22:52-53; 23:45; 24:53): The central place of Jewish worship in Jerusalem. Luke begins and ends his Gospel in the Temple and highlights Jesus' teaching and actions there.;xNLx;Sabbath (e.g., Luke 4:16, 31; 6:1-2, 5-7, 9; 13:10, 14-16; 14:1, 3, 5; 23:54, 56): The weekly day of rest and worship. Luke records several instances of Jesus healing on the Sabbath, leading to conflict with religious leaders.;xNLx;Altar (Luke 1:11; 11:51): The sacred structure in the Temple for sacrifices or incense.;xNLx;Passover (e.g., Luke 2:41; 22:1, 7-8, 11, 13, 15): The annual Jewish feast commemorating Israel's deliverance from slavery in Egypt. Jesus' Last Supper was a Passover meal.;xNLx;Feast of Unleavened Bread (Luke 22:1, 7): The seven-day festival immediately following Passover.;xNLx;Parable (e.g., Luke 4:23; 5:36; 6:39; 8:4, 9-11; 12:16, 41; 13:6, 18; 14:7; 15:3; 18:1, 9; 19:11; 20:9, 19; 21:29): A story, often drawn from everyday life, used by Jesus to illustrate a spiritual truth, especially about the Kingdom of God. Luke includes many parables not found in other Gospels (e.g., Good Samaritan, Prodigal Son).;xNLx;Mammon (Luke 16:9, 11, 13): An Aramaic term for wealth, riches, or material possessions, personified by Jesus as a master that competes with God for a person's allegiance ("You cannot serve God and mammon").;xNLx;Gehenna / Hell (Luke 12:5): The place of final punishment. (See definition in Matthew list).;xNLx;Beelzebul (Luke 11:15, 18-19): A derogatory name for Satan or the prince of demons. (See definition in Matthew list).;xNLx;Hypocrite / Hypocrisy (e.g., Luke 6:42; 11:44; 12:1, 56; 13:15; 18:9 [implied of Pharisee]; 20:20): One who feigns righteousness or piety. Jesus condemned the hypocrisy of some religious leaders and individuals.;xNLx;Tax collector / Publican (e.g., Luke 3:12; 5:27, 29-30; 7:29, 34; 15:1; 18:10-13; 19:2): Individuals (often Jews) who collected taxes for the Roman authorities. They were generally despised by their fellow Jews for their perceived greed, corruption, and collaboration with Rome. Luke often portrays Jesus showing compassion to and associating with tax collectors, highlighting God's inclusive grace.;xNLx;Sinners (e.g., Luke 5:8, 30, 32; 6:32-34; 7:34, 37, 39; 13:2, 4; 15:1-2, 7, 10; 18:13; 19:7; 24:7): Those who were considered to be living in open violation of God's law or Jewish religious customs, often marginalized by society. Jesus' association with "tax collectors and sinners" was a point of contention with the religious leaders but demonstrated His mission to seek and save the lost.;xNLx;III. Roman Political and Historical Terms:;xNLx;;xNLx;Caesar Augustus (Luke 2:1): The first Roman emperor, during whose reign Jesus was born. His decree for a census is mentioned.;xNLx;Quirinius (governor of Syria) (Luke 2:2): The Roman governor of Syria at the time of a census mentioned by Luke in connection with Jesus' birth.;xNLx;Tiberius Caesar (Luke 3:1): The Roman emperor during the time John the Baptist and Jesus began their public ministries.;xNLx;Pontius Pilate (governor of Judea) (e.g., Luke 3:1; 13:1; 20:20 [implied authority]; 23:1-7, 11-25, 52): The Roman prefect/governor of Judea who presided over Jesus' trial and condemned Him to crucifixion.;xNLx;Herod (Antipas, the tetrarch) (e.g., Luke 3:1, 19; 8:3 [Joanna, wife of Chuza, Herod's household manager]; 9:7, 9; 13:31; 23:6-12, 15): Son of Herod the Great, ruler of Galilee and Perea during Jesus' ministry. He imprisoned and executed John the Baptist and encountered Jesus during His passion.;xNLx;Tetrarch (Luke 3:1, 19; 9:7): The ruler of a fourth part of a province or kingdom. Herod Antipas was a tetrarch.;xNLx;Denarius / Denarii (Luke 7:41; 10:35; 20:24; 22:59 [ESV "about an hour later," but context of payment for betrayal is prior]): A Roman silver coin, generally equivalent to a day's wage for a common laborer.;xNLx;Legion (Luke 8:30): A large unit of the Roman army (typically 3,000-6,000 soldiers). The name given by a group of demons, indicating their great number.;xNLx;IV. Key Theological and Discipleship Terms:;xNLx;;xNLx;Kingdom of God (e.g., Luke 1:33; 4:43; 6:20; 7:28; 8:1, 10; 9:2, 11, 27, 60, 62; 10:9, 11; 11:2, 20; 12:31-32; 13:18, 20, 28-29; 14:15; 16:16; 17:20-21; 18:16-17, 24-25, 29; 19:11; 21:31; 22:16, 18, 29-30; 23:42, 51): A central theme in Luke, referring to God's sovereign reign and rule, present in Jesus' person and ministry and yet to be fully consummated in the future. Luke emphasizes its universal scope and its implications for social justice and concern for the poor.;xNLx;Repent / Repentance (e.g., Luke 3:3, 8; 5:32; 10:13; 11:32; 13:3, 5; 15:7, 10; 16:30; 17:3-4; 24:47): To turn away from sin and toward God, involving a change of mind, heart, and behavior. Luke stresses the necessity of repentance for all.;xNLx;Forgiveness (of sins) (e.g., Luke 1:77; 3:3; 5:20-24; 7:47-49; 11:4; 12:10; 17:3-4; 23:34; 24:47): The act of pardoning or remitting sins, a key aspect of the salvation Jesus brings.;xNLx;Faith (e.g., Luke 1:20, 45; 5:20; 7:9, 50; 8:12-13, 25, 28 [demon's acknowledgement], 39 [what God has done], 48, 50; 12:28; 17:5-6, 19; 18:8, 42; 22:32): Trust, belief, and reliance upon God or Jesus Christ. Luke often connects faith with healing and salvation.;xNLx;Holy Spirit / Spirit (e.g., Luke 1:15, 35, 41, 67; 2:25-27; 3:16, 22; 4:1, 14, 18; 10:21; 11:13; 12:10, 12; 24:49 [promise of the Father]): The third person of the Trinity. Luke gives particular prominence to the work of the Holy Spirit in the conception of Jesus, His empowerment for ministry, and His being promised to Jesus' followers.;xNLx;Grace (Greek: charis) (e.g., Luke 1:30; 2:40, 52; 4:22; 6:32-34 [ESV "what benefit is that to you?"]; 17:9): God's unmerited favor, kindness, and divine enablement.;xNLx;Poor / Needy (e.g., Luke 1:52-53; 2:7-8 [shepherds]; 4:18; 6:20; 7:22; 12:15-21 [rich fool]; 14:13, 21; 16:19-31 [Lazarus and the rich man]; 18:22; 19:8; 21:2-4): Luke shows a special concern for the economically disadvantaged and marginalized. The good news of the kingdom is particularly for them, and wealth is often portrayed as a spiritual danger.;xNLx;Samaritan (e.g., Luke 9:52-53; 10:33; 17:11, 16): Inhabitants of Samaria, a region between Judea and Galilee. Jews and Samaritans generally had a hostile relationship due to historical, religious, and ethnic differences. Jesus' positive portrayal of Samaritans (e.g., the Good Samaritan, the grateful leper) was counter-cultural and emphasized the universal reach of God's compassion.;xNLx;Gentiles / Nations (e.g., Luke 2:32; 7:5 [centurion]; 18:32; 21:24; 22:25; 24:47): Non-Jewish peoples. Luke clearly indicates that the salvation brought by Jesus is for both Jews and Gentiles.;xNLx;Disciple (e.g., Luke 5:30, 33; 6:1, 13, 17, 20, 40; 7:11, 18; 8:9, 22; 9:1, 14, 16, 18, 40, 43, 54, 57; and frequently throughout): A learner or follower of Jesus. Luke emphasizes the cost and demands of discipleship.;xNLx;Apostles (Luke 6:13; 9:1, 10; 11:49; 17:5; 22:14; 24:10): "Sent ones," specifically the twelve chosen by Jesus to be His closest followers and future leaders of the church.;xNLx;V. Other Notable Terms:;xNLx;;xNLx;Inn (Luke 2:7; 10:34): A place of lodging for travelers. The "inn" where Mary and Joseph could find no room was likely a public shelter or caravanserai. The Good Samaritan took the injured man to an inn.;xNLx;Stronger one (Luke 3:16; 11:21-22): A reference by John the Baptist to Jesus as more powerful than himself. Jesus also uses this imagery in a parable about binding a strong man.;xNLx;Zacchaeus (Luke 19:1-10): A chief tax collector who had a transformative encounter with Jesus, demonstrating repentance and restoration.;xNLx;Emmaus (Luke 24:13): A village near Jerusalem, the destination of two disciples to whom the resurrected Jesus appeared.;xNLx;This list is intended to aid in understanding some of the key vocabulary and concepts encountered in the Gospel of Luke (ESV). Given Luke's attention to historical detail, his universal perspective, and his emphasis on God's compassion, clarifying these terms can significantly enrich the reading experience.