Luke's inspired presentation of Christ is arranged in two great movements: first the 'Coming' of the Lord from heaven to earth; and then his 'Going' from earth to heaven. The turning point between them stands at chapter 9 verse 51.
An unforgettable scene marks the beginning of the 'Coming': when Mary and Joseph arrive in Bethlehem to have their names registered in the census-lists of the then world empire, there is no room in the inn for the world's Saviour to be born. Nonetheless the 'Coming' ends in glory: at the transfiguration Christ appears supreme and central in the coming universal kingdom of God.
An equally unforgettable scene marks the beginning of the 'Going' (see Luke 9:51–56): certain Samaritans refuse to receive him into their village. Rebuking his disciples' revengeful anger, Christ later reminds them (see Luke 10:20) that their names are already registered in the citizen lists of a more glorious city. Appropriately, the climax of the 'Going' shows the man, Jesus, rejected and crucified on earth, but now risen and ascending, being received up into glory.
The 'Coming' and the 'Going': between them they sum up Luke's message of salvation. The pre-existent and eternal Son of God came to our world and became a man like us so that he might secure for us here in this world forgiveness, wholeness, peace with God and the certainty that God's will shall eventually be done on earth even as it is done in heaven.
But there is more. By his Going he has taken humanity to the pinnacle of the universe. Following the captain of their salvation [p 18] along that road, all who trust him will one day be brought to share his glory in that exalted realm, and to reign with him at his return.
And now for the first stage of the 'Coming'. [p 19]
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