A Well Researched Gospel
The entire paragraph is one long Greek sentence written in the scholarly format of classical Greek.
In the opening section of this gospel, Luke gives us 3 explanations for why he wrote this gospel.
1. The precedent for Luke’s Gospel
1 Inasmuch as many have undertaken to compile a narrative of the things that have been accomplished among us, 2 just as those who from the beginning were eyewitnesses and ministers of the word have delivered them to us, Luke 1:1-2 (ESV)
These works probably include oral records and the gospels of Matthew and Mark.
Luke describes three stages in the process which includes the events that were experienced, the witnesses’ formulation of these events, and the recording of the tradition and reflection on the information.
21 For no prophecy was ever produced by the will of man, but men spoke from God as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit. 2 Peter 1:21 (ESV)
2. The pattern for Luke’s Gospel
3 it seemed good to me also, having followed all things closely for some time past, to write an orderly account for you, most excellent Theophilus, Luke 1:3 (ESV)
Luke desired to follow the account of Jesus’ life so as to understand its significance through the process of accurate investigation.
10 For the Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost.” Luke 19:10 (ESV)
3. The purpose for Luke’s Gospel
4 that you may have certainty concerning the things you have been taught. Luke 1:4 (ESV)
The “certainty” the Luke desires to achieve is for the purpose of encouraging and strengthening the faith of Theophilus.