Luke

Luke’s Gospel portrays the scribes as teachers of the law and legal experts. In specific instances, Luke also seems to equate the terms νομοδιδάσκαλος (nomodidaskalos) (Luke 5:17, 21) and νομικός (nomikos) (Luke 11:37–54) with γραμματεύς (grammateus).

Like the Gospel of Mark, Luke portrays the scribes together with either the Pharisees or chief priests and elders questioning the authority of Jesus. The scribes and Pharisees ask why Jesus eats with tax collectors and sinners (Luke 5:27–32; 15:1–2). Together with the chief priests and elders, the scribes question Jesus’ authority to teach (20:1–2). As teachers of the law, the scribes also question Jesus’ right to forgive sins (5:17–21). In one case, however, the scribes acknowledge Jesus’ expertise in the law (20:39).

Luke likewise shows the scribes as part of the leadership responsible for Jesus’ death. The scribes look for opportunities to see Jesus break the law in order to accuse Him (Luke 6:6–11), and they plot with the chief priests against Jesus after His temple demonstration (Luke 19:47–48). The scribes are a part of the Jewish council that interrogates Jesus (Luke 22:66). Luke also links the scribes to the arrest and crucifixion of Jesus (Luke 9:22) and shows the scribes and chief priests accusing Jesus in front of Herod (Luke 23:10).

Similar to Mark, Luke portrays Jesus as denouncing the scribes who like to display their clothes, be praised in public, exploit widows, and show off their piety (Luke 20:45–47). In addition, Luke depicts Jesus as condemning the lawyers for increasing the burden of the people and hindering their knowledge while being hypocrites (Luke 11:37–54). Jesus openly provokes the scribes and Pharisees by healing on the Sabbath (Luke 6:6–11).