Why does Matthew chapter 1 include a genealogy of Jesus?
Matthew chapter 1 includes Jesus’ genealogy to prove that He is the rightful heir to David’s throne. In light of the covenant’s governmental aspect, the New Testament introduces Him as the son of David and son of Abraham, establishing His legal royal lineage as the King who will rule the kingdom.
Les explains that Matthew chapter 1 must be understood in light of the third part of the covenant, the government or the king. The New Testament therefore introduces Jesus genealogically to prove He is the rightful heir to David’s throne, over which the King of kings would rule the kingdom. The genealogy identifies Him as the son of David and the son of Abraham, and it concerns itself with establishing that royal, legal claim. Les briefly contrasts this with Luke chapter 3, the genealogy of Mary, which goes all the way back to Adam. He notes that although Joseph was not the physical father of Christ, he was the legal father, so the genealogies serve their intended purposes.
The book of the generation of Jesus Christ, the son of David, the son of Abraham.
More Questions
How do Matthew's and Luke's genealogies of Jesus differ?
Matthew's genealogy of Jesus starts with Abraham and does not go back to Adam, whereas Luke's genealogy in chapter 3 traces all the way back to Adam.