The Gospel Of Luke

Mid-levelBusy pastors, General readers, Pastors-in-trainingStrong recommendation
Last updated: December 20, 2025
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Evaluation

Overall Score: 8.5/10

A reverent and theologically steady evangelical exposition of Luke that continues to serve the church.

Publication Date(s): 1951
Pages: 680
ISBN: 9780802825011
Faithfulness to the Text: 8.5/10
We find careful, conservative handling of the Gospel text with strong respect for its historical claims.
Christ Centredness: 9/10
We see the person and saving work of Christ clearly foregrounded throughout the exposition.
Depth of Insight: 8/10
We gain solid theological and narrative insight, though without engagement in later critical developments.
Clarity of Writing: 8.5/10
We find the writing clear, orderly, and pastorally accessible.
Pastoral Usefulness: 8.5/10
We find it helpful for teaching and devotional preparation, especially in tracing Luke’s themes.
Readability: 8.5/10
We find it readable and well suited to sustained consultation.

Summary

At a Glance

Length
680 pages
Type
Expository (Mid-Level)
Theo. Perspective
Broadly Evangelical
Overall score
8.5 / 10
Strength
Strong Christ centred and pastorally sensitive reading of Luke.
Limitation
Limited interaction with modern scholarly discussions.

We find The Gospel Of Luke by J. Norval Geldenhuys to be a reverent and pastorally shaped exposition of Luke’s account of the life and ministry of Jesus. Written from a conservative evangelical stance, the commentary reflects a deep confidence in the historical reliability of the Gospel and a sustained concern to trace Luke’s theological purpose.

We note that Geldenhuys reads Luke as a carefully ordered narrative aimed at giving assurance to believers. Attention is given to Luke’s emphasis on salvation history, the work of the Holy Spirit, prayer, and God’s concern for the marginalised. The exposition proceeds steadily, combining explanation of the text with theological reflection shaped by the needs of the church.

Why Should I Own This Commentary?

We should own this commentary because it models an older but still valuable form of evangelical exposition. Geldenhuys handles the text with seriousness and devotion, resisting speculative critical theories while remaining attentive to literary flow and historical background.

We also value its pastoral tone. This is a commentary written to strengthen faith and understanding, not merely to analyse sources. Geldenhuys consistently keeps the person and work of Christ central, and his treatment of key passages reflects a concern for clarity and reverence.

That said, we recognise that the work reflects its era. Engagement with later scholarly discussions is limited, and some sections move more descriptively than analytically. It is best used as a companion rather than a comprehensive critical resource.

Closing Recommendation

We recommend this volume as a faithful and pastorally minded exposition of Luke. It remains a helpful resource for readers who value theological steadiness and devotional clarity alongside careful explanation.

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Classification

  • Level: Mid-level
  • Best For: Busy pastors, General readers, Pastors-in-training
  • Priority: Strong recommendation

Reviewed by

An Expositor