Despite the striking frequency with which the Greek word kyrios (Lord) occurs in Luke's Gospel, this study is the first comprehensive analysis of Luke's use of this word. The analysis follows the use of kyrios in the Gospel from beginning to end in order to trace the complex and deliberate development in Luke's narrative of Jesus' identity as Lord. Detailed attention to Luke's narrative artistry and use of Mark demonstrates that Luke's nuanced and sophisticated christology binds the identity of Jesus to that of the God of Israel."Lukan Christology has provided the focus of a number of monographs of late, but none has had this particular methodological focus on narrative criticism nor centered on the extensive use of the title kyrios by the Third Evangelist. In setting as his research focus the narrative development of the meaning of kyrios in the Gospel of Luke, then, Rowe fills a surprising lacuna in Lukan scholarship. More importantly, his project allows him to explore what is undeniably a central ingredient of Luke's Christology. . . . This is a compelling study that will serve as the point of departure for subsequent analyses of Luke's Christology. . . . Early Narrative Christology is exemplary for its methodological focus, exegetical prowess, and theological maturity."--Joel B. Green, Review of Biblical Literature"[This book] rests solidly on the foundation of extensive exegesis of the Gospel of Luke. . . . At points where Rowe disagrees with noted Lucan scholars, he argues convincingly, appealing to exegesis and lexical comparisons across the Gospel. . . . Rowe demonstrates that careful attention to exegesis coupled with critical reflection on the narrative development of the term across the Gospel provides the hermeneutical key to Lucan christology."--Laurie Brink, OP, Catholic Biblical Quarterly"There is no space in a single review to do full justice to the detail and richness of Rowe's analysis. . . . [This study] is clearly articulated, consistently worked out on the basis of a line of argument that is careful, subtle, and sensitive. . . . An immensely stimulating study that will undoubtedly become part of the standard literature on Luke's Gospel and Luke's Christology. Certainly this will be a 'must' for all serious students of Luke's work in the future."--Christopher Tuckett, Review of Biblical Literature