Friday, October 19, 2012 - Genealogy of Jesus

Friday, October 19, 2012
Genealogy of Jesus

Today's reading lists the two accounts of the genealogy of Jesus in
the New Testament. The first account is in the Gospel of Matthew and
the second is in the Gospel of Luke. Here are some highlights on
Jesus' genealogy:

1. While Matthew's account traces Jesus' lineage paternally, Luke's
account traces Jesus' lineage maternally. This information combined
with the fact that King David is listed in both genealogies
demonstrates Jesus' link to the house of David on both sides of His
family – fulfills the prophecy that the Messiah would be of the "seed
of David."
2. The wicked and the righteous are listed in the genealogy of Jesus
demonstrating God's love for all people, including those who have
turned away from Him.
3. Four women listed early in Matthew's account include Tamar, Rahab,
Ruth, and Bathsheba – the mention of women during this time when
genealogies were so focused on men is extraordinary.
a) Tamar – birthed Perez (an ancestor of King David) by way of
her father-in-law Judah (one of the twelve tribes of Israel). Based on
the circumstances, Tamar's act was seen as holy (you'll have to go
back and read the story if you don't remember), but Judah, who did not
know Tamar's identity was acting in sin – Despite the mess we are, God
loves us.
b) Rahab – the Canaanite prostitute who helped the Israelites spy
on the Promised Land before they conquered it – God showing His love
here for Gentiles and sinners.
c) Ruth – the Moabite who followed after the God of Israel – God
showing his love once again for Gentiles – Jesus was the savior of the
world (Jews and Gentiles)
d) Bathsheba – birthed Solomon by way of King David. Remember,
Bathsheba was the "wife of Uriah," who David had killed so that he
could take Bathsheba for himself – again, God showing his mercy when
we fall short of the glory of God.

Jesus is the Son of God, the spotless Lamb of God, and is equal with
God and the Holy Spirit. Yet He shows His love and redemption of the
world even in His lineage. Both the righteous and wicked, Jews and
Gentiles would all be saved through belief in Him. This day, let's
praise our Savior.

God Bless,
Anthony