3. A synopsis of Jesus' teaching in the temple 19:47-48 (cf. Mark 11:18)

Luke stressed the rejection and hostility of the Jewish leaders toward Jesus as He taught daily in the temple precincts. The common people, however, were very receptive to His instruction. This contrast between popular acceptance and official opposition has characterized Luke's narrative. The writer evidently included it to show his readers that average people with no vested interests at stake have always been open to the gospel (cf. 1:68, 77; 2:10, 31-32).

This paragraph is also introductory to what follows. It introduces Jesus' teaching ministry to His disciples in Jerusalem, as 4:14-15 introduced His ministry in Galilee.