Did Luke have to paraphrase a lot of Acts b/c he had limited space to write on?

Question

I took a class in College about the book of Acts. I remember how it was the second part of a two part series which Luke was writing (the first one being the gospel of Luke). I also remember my professor explaining how since Acts was the second part, Luke may have had to shorten it since the papyrus (or whatever it was that he was using to write ont) was expensive and he was running out of room, as he's already written the gospel of Luke prior to wrting the Acts of the apostles. My question is, has anyone heard anything similar regarding Luke having to shorten/perhaps paraphrase a lot of the book of Acts b/c he had limited space to write on? If so, could you please give me a source?

Answer 1

I think that it is possible, but not likely. This is because Luke and Paul were spreading the Gospel. I only hope that isn't true, but then I look at the seemingly abrupt ending about Paul teaching from a rented house, though unhindered. To me, Paul had other places to go. So I see the point. Perhaps Luke was running out of time, because as I understand it, Luke was writing the Acts in order to present it to those trying Paul in Rome.

I have a book called, Paul on Trial which states that Luke was writing for Paul's defense in Rome. You might find it interesting. And I forget the source, but there is a theory that Paul went to Britain. There may be a lot to that as well.

Answer 2

Acts is a pretty long book. I think the only part that was shortened was the last chapter. It ends much too briefly about Paul.It does not speak of his martyrdom and his trips to Spain and perhaps Great Britain.

Answer 3

I think your professor has a few rocks in his brain. I think if Luke, who was a professional doctor, couldn't find enough paper to write on it would be easy enough for him to get more if needed. It is said that all that Jesus said and done was not written down, just enough was written to show people what He was about and to pass His words to the next generation.
What do they teach in schools in these days!

Answer 4

I heard that he was considered a Dr. and Dr's always shorten things, also he was the more analytical one, not as romantic you could say in his writing, short and to the point without the flowers

Answer 5

Luke -and the other writers of scripture - were directed and moved by the Holy Spirit as to what they wrote. We have exactly what God wanted us to have.

god bless

Answer 6

Never heard anything like it, I do know that Luke was very accurate in what he wrote.

Answer 7

Oh come on! You're not meant to take Star Wars literally.

Answer 8

No this one is a new one for me how would one get such information?