The Good News of Matthew begins with a genealogy of Jesus the Savior. The way that these names were communicated and the inclusion of certain individuals meant something particular to the original readers that can help us understand what God wanted us to know through His Word.
In this genealogy, we see the names of four women: Tamar, Rahab, Ruth, and Bathsheba. These four women differed dramatically from the four women most commonly listed in Jewish texts: Sarah, Rebecca, Rachel, and Leah. The four that Matthew listed most likely were all Gentiles, contrasting the women commonly listed who were Jewish. One of the women (Ruth) was a Moabite, which Scripture indicates would not be allowed into the congregation up to the tenth generation (Deuteronomy 23:3). Plus, three of the four women made morally questionable decisions in their life and were known for them in Scripture.
Why would Matthew highlight these names? Surely a book written to provide credibility to the Savior of the world would attempt to hide such blemishes in the genealogy of the Christ?
Through this genealogy, Matthew communicates that the Good News of Jesus comes to all people, not only Jews. He kindly lets us know that the Gospel extends beyond the walls of perceived religious perfection and to the hearts of sinners.*
What does that mean for you and me? If we are honest, we are sinners. We engage in all sorts of evil in our hearts. Perhaps you are reading this and envy, lust, fear, or hate have enslaved your soul at some time. Perhaps you have acted unjustly, unkindly, or have lied to secure your own advantage. Whatever the case, you have sinned and so have I.
No matter if you can trace your genealogy to Jewish roots or not, you need the Savior.
The Good News is that Jesus has come for all. Matthew wanted his readers to know this, and today, God wants you to know this.
Today, take just one step.
Maybe your step is to admit that you are a sinner. Maybe today you need to admit that you have been hiding behind the perceived and false perfection that religious adherence provides. Maybe your step today is to allow God to show His love through you to the morally questionable. Maybe you need to take a step and show love to yourself.
Whatever the step, ask God to direct it. Invite Him to speak. He will.
Life is a long road. Walk it with Jesus. Take a step today… just one is fine.
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*Insights on genealogy from: Morris, Leon. The Gospel According to Matthew. Pillar New Testament Commentary. Wm. B. Eerdmans, 1992.