Luke opens with a statement explaining that the author carefully investigated the events surrounding Jesus’ life. Writing for a broader audience that included Gentile readers, Luke presents an orderly narrative from the birth of John the Baptist through Jesus’ ministry, death, and resurrection. Particular attention is given to themes of compassion, repentance, and the inclusion of those often overlooked in society. Luke highlights how the message of salvation reaches beyond ethnic and social boundaries. The Gospel forms the first volume of a two-part work that continues in the book of Acts. Together these books trace the movement of the gospel from the ministry of Jesus to its spread throughout the Roman world.