“ …and Jacob the father of Joseph, the husband of Mary, and Mary was the mother of Jesus who is called the Messiah. Thus there were fourteen generations in all from Abraham to David, fourteen from David to the exile to Babylon, and fourteen from the exile to the Messiah.”
Matthew 1:1-17
As we read the genealogy of Jesus, we may feel disconnected from the names on the page. But could it be that the Holy Spirit is crying out the stories behind each name? These are not just historical figures and because we’ve said "yes" to Jesus, this is now our family too. Pastor Kevin Meyers continues the, Like Us series, this Advent season by inviting us to reflect on how the genealogy of Jesus reveals the heart and character of God while also bringing hope to our earthly families. No family is too broken for God’s redemptive power.
What is the context?
- Matthew's Gospel is intentionally crafted to communicate that Jesus’ genealogy uncovers God’s nature and promises
Proclamations we can claim from Jesus’ genealogy …
The Kingship of God
- The Jewish people were waiting for a King, expecting Him to come with a sword and great power. Instead, God fulfilled His promise through the humility of a baby born in manger.
- This very fact makes God even more trustworthy and His God’s kingship reminds us that He never breaks His promises.
- In our lives, the voices we heed reflect who reigns in our hearts. Jesus' authority as King is undeniable.
The Faithfulness of God
- Unlike us, who may break covenants or fail to keep our word, God remains faithful. Jesus fulfills every promise and covenant God has made.
- Doubt does not disqualify us; it is often the soil in which faith grows.
- God is always working, even in the hard and messy parts of our lives. When we reflect on our families, we may begin to see how His faithfulness has been at work across generations.
The Grace of God
- In our shame, we often hide and attempt to cover our sin. Yet, God invites us to let Him cover us with His mercy, which is part of our lineage in Christ.
- When we obey and trust God, the seeds of His word take root and expand in our lives.
- Our failures, weaknesses, and sin do not limit God’s ability to work in our lives. He knowns no limits and His grace is final.
The Blessing of God
- We often strive in our human strength to achieve or grasp blessings that God longs to freely give us.
- Jesus bore the curse of sin and death on the cross so that we could receive the ultimate blessing: life in Him.
- Wherever Jesus is present, there is flourishing and renewal. His blessings are not just material but life-giving and eternal. He desires to bring that flourishing into every part of our lives.
Additional Resources:
- Luke 3:23, 38
- Genesis 3:15
- John 12:24
- Genesis 26:4
Dinner Party Questions
- What do you think God is inviting you to share—whether with Him or others—that could release you from shame’s grip?
- In what areas of your life may be experiencing death?
- Who’s voice are you heeding and how can you actively surrender to Christ’s kingship?
- Where are you striving to earn God’s blessing instead of receiving it freely through grace?
