An Unlikely Lineage

Read Matthew 1:1-17

Biblical genealogies are complex to read. Name after name, many of which are difficult to pronounce to the 21st century American reader, can leave the reader questioning their greater purpose in the metanarrative of the bible. Nonetheless, “All scripture is God-breathed, and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting, and training in righteousness.” In addition to making a case for the historicity of Jesus, the genealogy recorded in Matthew 1 provides beautiful insight into the character of God. We learn much about his grand invitation for men and women throughout history to participate in his marvelous story of redemption.

Five names in particular stand out in this passage in Matthew. They are the only women listed in the genealogy, and their stories demonstrate what every individual participating in this sacred lineage desperately needed: a Redeemer.

Tamar was impregnated by her father-in-law after veiling her identity and being mistaken as a prostitute.

Rahab was a Gentile and former prostitute.

Ruth, also a Gentile, was a poor field-worker.

Bathsheba, identified in the text as “the wife of Uriah,” was a participant in the adulterous relationship that left her pregnant and her husband murdered.

Mary was a young, unmarried pregnant woman who was inevitably labeled a social outcast despite being innocent of sexual immorality.

These five women, along with the men listed in the text, were recipients of God’s undeserved favor. Through them, the Father brought into the world the promised Savior, so that we, too, might be the beneficiaries of such undeserved favor.

Starter Prayer:
Father,

You have always been in the business of using unlikely and insignificant people to accomplish your grand purposes. Thank you for the long history of your sovereign intervention in the lives of weak and helpless people. Thank you for making me a part of that history. I need a redeemer as much as anyone. Thank you for providing Him.
Amen.