According to Luke: An Analytical Commentary

Luke 1:1-4

1 Forasmuch (since/because; introduces the reason Luke writes) as many (many individuals; likely early Christians, probably not Matthew, Mark, or John) have taken in hand (undertaken; attempted seriously) to set forth in order (to draw up; arrange systematically, not randomly, mostly chronologically but sometimes thematically) a declaration (narrative; orderly report) of those things (matters relating to Jesus Christ’s life, death, resurrection, etc.) which are most surely believed (fully assured; firmly accepted) among us (Christians-followers of Christ; including Luke and Theophilus),

2 Even as (in the same way that) they (apostles and early disciples) delivered them (passed down by oral tradition and/or early writings) unto us (Luke and other second-generation Christians), which (or who) from the beginning (from the start of Jesus’ public ministry — John’s baptism) were eyewitnesses (saw with their own eyes; apostles as primary witnesses; Matthew and John were eyewitnesses, Mark and Luke were not) and ministers (servants, proclaimers) of the word (the preached Gospel message; possibly also hinting at Christ as the Word/Logos).

3 It seemed good (it seemed fitting, appropriate; Luke is personally motivated) to me also (Luke includes himself among faithful transmitters), having had perfect understanding (accurate and thorough knowledge; careful investigation as a legitimate historian) of all things (all the events surrounding Christ’s life and ministry) from the very first (possible translation: from above - claiming divine inspiration; cf. John 19:11 Greek. Most probable: very first - from the beginning; possibly from the earliest stages of Jesus’ public life, or from events surrounding His birth), to write unto thee (direct address to Theophilus; personal communication), in order (orderly, logical arrangement), most excellent (formal title for Roman officials; cf. Acts 23:26, “most excellent Felix”), Theophilus (proper name meaning “lover of God” or “beloved of God”; a Gentile man of high status),

4 That thou (Theophilus, the immediate recipient) mightest know (might have full knowledge, certainty; Luke’s purpose is assurance) the certainty (firmness, reliability; Greek: asphaleian, meaning security and unshakable truth) of those things (the matters of Christian faith: Christ’s life, death, resurrection, etc.) wherein thou hast been instructed (catechized; taught systematically, probably orally — suggests Theophilus was probably a recent convert/new believer). (End of Preface.)