That thou mightest know the certainty of those things, wherein thou hast been instructed.

LUKE 1:4KJV
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Luke 1:4 (KJV)

What does Luke 1:4 mean?

Luke 1:4 says that the writer wants the reader to know for sure that the things they have been taught are true. The verse is about giving the reader confidence in the truth and reliability of the teachings they have received.

Luke, the author, is writing to someone named Theophilus at the beginning of his Gospel. Luke explains that he carefully investigated everything and wrote an orderly account so Theophilus could be certain about what he had learned. This verse shows Luke’s purpose: to provide a trustworthy record of what happened in the life of Jesus.

The Greek behind Luke 1:4

  • The word "certainty" (ἀσφάλεια, asphaleia) means firmness, security, or something that cannot be shaken. Luke is stressing that the information he is giving is solid and dependable, not just hearsay.
  • The word "instructed" (κατηχέω, katēcheō) refers to being taught or informed, often by word of mouth. This suggests Theophilus had already heard these things, and Luke is confirming them in writing.

Why Luke 1:4 matters

  • Luke 1:4 clears up any doubt about whether the stories and teachings about Jesus are reliable, showing that Luke’s account is carefully researched.
  • The verse highlights Luke’s concern for accuracy and truth, setting the tone for the whole Gospel as a trustworthy historical record.
  • By mentioning that Theophilus has already been instructed, Luke connects his writing to a wider community of early Christians who were taught about Jesus, showing that this Gospel is meant to strengthen their faith and understanding.

Where else these words appear

“certainty” Greek G803 · used in 3 verses

  • Acts 5:23 Saying, The prison truly found we shut with all safety, and the keepers standing without before the doors: but when we had opened, we found no man within.
  • 1 Thessalonians 5:3 For when they shall say, Peace and safety; then sudden destruction cometh upon them, as travail upon a woman with child; and they shall not escape.

“instructed” Greek G2727 · used in 7 verses

  • Acts 18:25 This man was instructed in the way of the Lord; and being fervent in the spirit, he spake and taught diligently the things of the Lord, knowing only the baptism of John.
  • Acts 21:24 Them take, and purify thyself with them, and be at charges with them, that they may shave their heads: and all may know that those things, whereof they were informed concerning thee, are nothing; but that thou thyself also walkest orderly, and keepest the law.
  • 1 Corinthians 14:19 Yet in the church I had rather speak five words with my understanding, that by my voice I might teach others also, than ten thousand words in an unknown tongue.

“know” Greek G1921 · used in 38 verses

  • Matthew 7:16 Ye shall know them by their fruits. Do men gather grapes of thorns, or figs of thistles?
  • Luke 23:7 And as soon as he knew that he belonged unto Herod's jurisdiction, he sent him to Herod, who himself also was at Jerusalem at that time.
  • Acts 27:39 And when it was day, they knew not the land: but they discovered a certain creek with a shore, into the which they were minded, if it were possible, to thrust in the ship.