What is the context?
Luke begins by explaining what he is doing and why. Others have already written about the events fulfilled among them. Those events were passed on by people who saw them from the beginning and served in spreading the message. Luke has investigated carefully and now writes for Theophilus, who has already received instruction.
The aim is confidence grounded in a careful account. Luke points to events, eyewitnesses, teaching, and investigation. The opening gives readers a reason to pay attention to what follows and examine how the account supports what they have been taught.
The Greek word behind orderly is καθεξῆς, kathexēs (kath-ex-ACE), meaning in order or in sequence. Luke promises a connected account readers can follow. The word itself does not settle whether every smaller episode is arranged in strict time order; that must be considered as the account unfolds. (Thayer’s lexicon)
How is this passage commonly understood?
Christian readers commonly understand this opening as Luke’s explanation of his careful work and his desire to strengthen confidence in the message about Jesus. Wesley and the Catholic bishops’ study notes both emphasize investigation, an orderly account, and the reader’s assurance. (Wesley on Luke 1:1–4; USCCB notes on Luke 1:1–4)
Where does this fit in God's plan?
Luke begins with things fulfilled, and near the Gospel’s end Jesus explains His suffering and resurrection through the Law, Prophets, and Psalms. The story is moving toward the fulfillment of God’s promises and the proclamation of repentance and forgiveness to the nations. Reading the whole account lets us see that purpose develop. (Luke 24:44–49)
Acts continues the account for Theophilus, describing the risen Jesus and the witnesses sent in the Spirit’s power. Luke’s writing helps carry testimony about these events beyond the people who first saw them. John states a related purpose for his own written Gospel: that readers may believe in Jesus and have life in His name. (Acts 1:1–8; John 20:30–31)
What is our position?
We don't have a position on this passage yet. When our study reaches a conclusion the text supports, it will appear here.