Matthew chapter 1:1-17

Below are some notes on why the genealogy of Jesus is noteworthy in the Bible. i.e. why did it get included, who cares?

Read Matthew 1:1-17

--Why is Jesus’ genealogy important?

The book of Matthew was written primarily to Jews. And a true Jew would understand that the Messiah (=Christ, the anointed one) would have to be a descendant of Abraham and of David. (Scripture support) This genealogical line supports that Jesus really is the Messiah.

For Non-Jewish people we can still learn a lot from this list. For example, look at verse 3 and you will see the name Tamar. Tamar is know for pretending to be a harlot and intentionally getting impregnated by her father-in-law. Yet, she was used by God. She is mentioned in the birth record of the Son of God, the savior. This is a high honor. Yet we would all agree that what she did was manipulative. God has shown her mercy and used her actions for the good.

--The first three people in the genealogical line are Abraham, Isaac and Jacob. Who are they?

These three are called the patriarchs of the Jewish people. Abraham was known as God’s friend, Isaac was his promised son, and Jacob was the son through whom the 12 tribes of Israel originated. Jacob was renamed “Israel” when he realized his sin in Genesis. He had 12 sons, and the descendants of these sons became the 12 tribes. (Genesis chapters 15, 21, 27 and 32)

--Who is Judah, and is that important?

In Genesis 37, it is Judah who speaks and saves his brothers life. Although he did agree to sell Joseph, his brother, into slavery, he also becomes the patriarch of the largest of the 12 tribes of Israel. Jesus is known in Revelation 5:5 as the Lion of the tribe of Judah.

--Who is David and why is he important?

David is the greatest king of Israel. He represents the glory of their kingdom. He is also known as a man after Gods own heart. (1st and 2nd Samuel)

--Who is the wife of Uriah and why is she important enough to list?

Bathsheba is her name. David called on her while her husband was away at war and she became pregnant. That first child died. But after her husband was dead, David and her were married, and she bore Solomon.

--Who is Solomon and why is he important?

He would become the richest king ever. God promised Solomon anything he asked. Solomon was already king, so he asked for wisdom to rule and lead the kingdom of Israel. This pleased God that Solomon would ask for wisdom over riches and the like, so he blessed Solomon with financial wealth as well as wisdom.

--Who is Uzziah, and why is he important?

Uzziah had led the kingdom back to righteousness after his father had led them away from God. One of the most famous passages of this king is Isaiah 53, it marks the death of King Uzziah, but the prophesy of the coming of Christ.