Final answer:
Luke and other Gospels depict Jesus as a figure who defied social norms by associating with the marginalized, conveying a message of universal salvation and forgiveness. His life demonstrated a commitment to the underprivileged, challenging both Roman and Jewish authorities and eventually leading to his crucifixion and the birth of Christianity.
Step-by-step explanation:
The inquiry revolves around Luke's portrayal of Jesus in the New Testament and his efforts to demonstrate that Jesus was a champion for the common people and societal outcasts. Luke, like other Gospel authors, aims to communicate that Jesus' ministry involved not only preaching salvation but also associating with those marginalized by society, such as the tax collectors and sinners as seen in Jesus' calling of Levi. In the historical context of Roman-occupied Palestine, Jesus represented a radical figure who challenged social norms and authorities, drawing the ire of both Roman and Jewish leaders. Jesus' social inversion is evident when he associates with individuals deemed unworthy by the cultural standards of the time, suggesting that God's love extended to all, irrespective of social standing.
After Jesus' crucifixion and reported resurrection, his disciples, including Luke, continued to propagate his teachings. The significance of Jesus's actions and teachings is that it presented a transformational message that offered salvation and forgiveness, even amidst personal hardship and societal disdain. This emphasis on Jesus' humble origins and his care for the impoverished and neglected resonates strongly with the Christian notion of Jesus as 'the Christ', the anointed savior of humanity.
Caravaggio's interpretation of the Gospel stories uses physical gestures to enhance the narrative and emotional intensity of the biblical scenes, such as Peter's disbelief and Christ's directions. These artistic representations help to further depict the gravity and impact of Jesus' life and works during a tumultuous time in history.