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SPM Bible Knowledge study materials
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SPM Bible Knowledge: The Gospel of Luke

SPM Bible Knowledge · Work through your exam, one topic at a time.

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The Gospel of Luke

The Gospel of Luke domain tests your knowledge of Luke's narrative from the annunciation (1:26–38) to the ascension (24:50–53), with emphasis on Luke's distinctive parables, miracles, infancy hymns and themes. SPM questions ask you to identify speakers and settings, explain a passage's meaning in context, compare Luke with the other Gospels where relevant, and apply the teaching.

Shape of the Gospel

  • The infancy narrative (1–2) is unique in its detail: Magnificat (1:46–55), Benedictus (1:68–79), Nunc Dimittis (2:29–32).
  • Ministry in Galilee (4–9), then a long journey to Jerusalem (9:51–19:27), then passion, resurrection and ascension (22–24).
  • Parables found only in Luke include the Good Samaritan (10:25–37), Prodigal Son (15:11–32), Rich Fool (12:13–21) and Pharisee and Tax Collector (18:9–14).
  • Luke alone records the raising of the widow's son at Nain (7:11–17) and the healing of ten lepers (17:11–19).

Themes the examiner rewards

  • Salvation is for all, especially the poor, sinners, women, Samaritans and Gentiles.
  • Jesus prays at key moments: baptism (3:21), transfiguration (9:29), choosing the Twelve (6:12).
  • The Holy Spirit, joy and table fellowship mark Luke's account.

Worked example

Question: Why would the Good Samaritan shock Jesus' Jewish audience, and what does it teach about loving a neighbour? Reasoning: the lawyer asks "Who is my neighbour?" Jesus tells of a man beaten on the Jericho road; a priest and Levite pass by, but a Samaritan helps. The shock lies in Jewish–Samaritan hostility: Samaritans were despised as a mixed race and false worshippers. Jesus makes the outsider the hero and commands, "Go and do likewise" (10:37). Marks come from naming the characters, explaining the cultural tension, and stating the command to show mercy to anyone in need.

Traps

  • Mixing Luke's unique parables with Matthew's.
  • Retelling a parable without explaining its context or application.
  • Forgetting that the ascension is emphasised in Luke–Acts.
  • Using vague answers such as "be kind" without textual support.