The Salvific-Historical Method of the Gospel of Luke
In his account of the Gospel, Luke highlights the pneumatological action among the various themes addressed. Starting from a context in which the work of salvation was restricted to Israel, it extends to all other peoples through the action of the Holy Spirit, manifested primarily after the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ.
Thus, the full distribution of the Spirit to the apostles after the ascension of Christ is evidenced, inaugurating the era of the Church and extending the salvific plan also to the Gentiles. What Luke portrays in his narrative, in a historical-biographical and very rich way, is Christ Jesus as the awaited Messiah and, following His redemptive sacrifice, the fulfillment of the purpose of the ekklesia, beginning with the disciples shortly after the empowerment from on high.
The matter of careful attention toward the poor and needy is another predominant factor in his narrative. The author also emphasizes the importance of warning about the risks that material wealth poses, which can distance one from the Kingdom of God. Thus, one is taught to depend entirely on Him, becoming like the poor, eliminating all forms of self-sufficiency.
Notwithstanding this fact, the work of salvation is offered to all, without distinction of class, gender, or social status. It will depend solely on how each person individually responds to it. From the moment the individual responds affirmatively to the call, a progressive process in spiritual life then begins.
It is concluded, therefore, that the action of the Holy Spirit is the most prominent theme in the Gospel, as reported by Luke. Given that the physician-historian predominantly records the pneumatological function in the missionary exercise, especially toward the poorest and most needy, the kerygma must be followed with compassionate attitudes and the practice of love. In this way, they will become true witnesses of Christ.
