Theophilos
by Michael D. O'Brien
San Francisco: Ignatius Press, 2010
St. Luke addressed his Gospel and the Acts of the Apostles to an unknown man named Theophilos. Michael O'Brien has Theophilos as Luke's uncle, who raised him after his parents died. He considers Luke to be his son. A doctor, he is a logical man, a man of science who does not take well to his son's involvement in this new Christian religion. He wants solid evidence. As a result, he sets out on a journey to discover the truth and interviews many who had first-hand experiences with Christ. As one might expect, his journey will take him to uncharted territory.
"Theophilos" is well-written and highly plausible. There is always some danger in taking Biblical figures and composing a fictional account of them. Yet, O'Brien has created a compelling account. It could have happened this way. The story keeps you moving through the pages.
O'Brien did not write this novel merely to entertain, however. He also conveys many truths about the Christian faith in his work. Theophilos could be any one of us, facing our doubts, searching for the truth. Seekers will find good company in these pages.
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