The genealogy of Jesus as recorded by Matthew does not agree with the genealogy of Jesus as recorded by Luke. They are the same from Abraham to David, but Luke goes back to David through his David's son Nathan while Matthew goes back to David through David's son Solomon.
It is difficult to know which provides Mary’s genealogy and which provides Joseph’s. Luke reads, Jesus . . . being, as was supposed, the son of Joseph. . . . (Lk. 3:23b NAS) Perhaps he gives Mary’s lineage because Mary furnished the earthly inheritance of her son. Jesus’ genetic code as a human came through Mary. Through her, he was literally from the seed of David.
Matthew also emphasizes the virgin birth. But perhaps he provides Joseph’s lineage. This is important because Joseph’s family determined Jesus’ birthplace as well as His legal family.
Isaiah prophesied, Then a shoot will spring from the stem of Jesse [David’s father], And a branch from his roots will bear fruit. And the Spirit of the Lord will rest on Him. (Is. 11:1,2a) Jesus is the son of David and the Son of God. He’s God and man—and He’s our Lord and Savior.
Originally published December 13, 1985.
Picture: Basket of pine cones with antique candlestick. Photo by Solveig.
