The Glory of Genealogy

Matthew 1 sets before us a summary of God’s glorious covenant faithfulness. This is what we celebrate in every season but especially in the season of advent. People who do genealogical research on their family are sometimes known as “genealogy buffs.” It’s nice for people who like that sort of thing, but different hobbies may hold more interest for others. Nevertheless, God views genealogy in a far more significant light. The Bible loves genealogy, because the Bible loves the concepts of covenant and of community. We’re connected to those behind us, and we’re connected to those ahead of us. People are often bored with their own genealogy, much less someone else’s. Yet the inspired, living word of God does not do what we are tempted to do—it doesn’t skip over the genealogies—it goes on and on and on. The genealogical record is a scrapbook of faithfulness i.e., God’s faithfulness. No matter the sins or intentions of men, the purposes and promises of God stand.

Pastor Randy Booth, Grace Covenant Presbyterian Church, Nacogdoches, TX

Son of David

“And behold, you will conceive in your womb and bring forth a Son, and shall call His name Jesus. He will be great, and will be called the Son of the Highest; and the Lord God will give Him the throne of His father David. And He will reign over the house of Jacob forever, and of His kingdom there will be no end” ―Luke 1:31-32

Prayer

Father, we give you thanks for adopting us into Your family, as the Church is the household of God and we have been made members by Your grace. We are grateful for the faithful brothers and sisters who have gone before us and delivered the gospel to us We pray that You would enable us to be likewise faithful as we pass the gospel down to those who come after us. Amen.

Advent Action

Take a look at your own genealogy (as far as you can). Did you come from a long line of believers or are you an example of God’s intervening grace? In either case, you have much to be thankful for. Ask your parents or grandparents to give you some additional background information on your family history. Don’t forget, as a Christian, your covenantal family history is in Christ. You are part of the family of God.