How do the Magnificat and Benedictus relate to one another? Do they present a unified image of the significance of the births of the two boys?
What are the major claims these early chapters make about Jesus, both in actions and dialogue?
What are the major differences between Luke and the other account of the birth of Jesus in the Gospel according to Matthew?
Application Questions:
The stated audience for the Gospel of Luke is Theophilus. Do you think Theophilus is a specific person, perhaps the patron of Luke’s writing, or an imagined ideal reader? Does this affect the way we should read Luke’s gospel?
What do you make of the violent imagery of the Magnificat? What does it mean for God to bring down the “mighty” from their thrones?
Reflect on the relationship between John the Baptist and Jesus. Why is this such an important place for Luke to begin his story?