Who Was Mattaniah in the Bible?
The Name of Several Old Testament Israelites
The name Mattaniah, meaning “gift of the Lord,” is attributed to several individuals in the Old Testament, each playing a unique role in the history and spiritual life of Israel. These men were associated with various periods and circumstances, from the Divided Monarchy to the Exile and Return. The following explores the different Mattaniahs mentioned in the Bible and how their lives and actions relate to modern Christians.
Mattaniah: A Post-Exilic Levite
Biblical References: 1 Chronicles 9:15; Nehemiah 11:17; Nehemiah 12:8, 25
Mattaniah was a Levite who lived during the time of the Exile and Return. The tribe of Levi was set apart for priestly duties and service to God. During the Babylonian exile, the Israelites faced significant threats to their religious and cultural identity. However, faithful individuals like Mattaniah remained committed to their service to God and preserved their heritage. Mattaniah’s role likely involved participating in temple worship and leading the community in maintaining their faith traditions.
Mattaniah: Son of Heman
Biblical Reference: 1 Chronicles 25:4
Another Mattaniah, a son of Heman, lived during the Divided Monarchy. Heman was a prominent Levite musician, and his sons, including Mattaniah, were appointed to serve in the musical ministry of the tabernacle or temple. This Mattaniah’s involvement in worship highlights the significant role of music and praise in the spiritual life of Israel.
Mattaniah: Associate of Jehoshaphat
Biblical Reference: 2 Chronicles 20:14
During King Jehoshaphat’s reign, Judah faced a formidable alliance of enemies. In response, the Spirit of the Lord came upon Jahaziel, who prophesied to encourage the people. Mattaniah is noted as one of those who stood in response to this prophecy, showing his faith and support for the king and the divine message.
Mattaniah: A Temple Worker
Biblical Reference: 2 Chronicles 29:13
In the time of King Hezekiah, Mattaniah was one of those responsible for collecting contributions and offerings for the restoration of the temple. This effort was part of Hezekiah’s religious reforms to restore proper worship and faithfulness to God.
Mattaniah: Four Post-Exile Divorcees
Biblical References: Ezra 10:26-27, 30, 37
Four men named Mattaniah are recorded in Ezra as having agreed to divorce their foreign wives during Ezra’s post-exile religious reforms. This action was part of a broader effort to restore purity and obedience to the Mosaic Law among the returned exiles.
Mattaniah: An Exile Returnee
Biblical References: Nehemiah 11:22; Nehemiah 12:35
Another Mattaniah returned from exile in Babylon and is noted for his involvement in the service of the temple during the restoration of Jerusalem. He is mentioned as the son of Mica and the father of Hashabiah and Shemaiah, who also served in the temple.
Mattaniah: Father of Zaccur
Biblical Reference: Nehemiah 13:13
Mattaniah is mentioned as the father of Zaccur, who was appointed as a treasurer by Nehemiah. This role was crucial in managing the contributions and resources for the temple and the community.
Lessons for the Modern Christian
Faithfulness in Service
The various Mattaniahs mentioned in the Bible exemplify faithfulness in their service to God. Whether through musical ministry, temple work, or supporting religious reforms, they remained dedicated to their roles. Modern Christians can learn the importance of faithfully serving in their capacities, using their gifts for the glory of God and the benefit of the community.
Biblical Reference: Colossians 3:23-24
“Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving.” (NIV)
Commitment to Purity and Obedience
The actions of the Mattaniahs during Ezra’s reforms highlight the importance of purity and obedience to God’s commands. Modern believers are called to examine their lives, remove influences that lead away from God, and strive for holiness.
Biblical Reference: 1 Peter 1:15-16
“But just as he who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do; for it is written: ‘Be holy, because I am holy.'” (NIV)
Supporting Godly Leadership
The Mattaniah who stood with Jehoshaphat and the one whose son Zaccur served as a treasurer both demonstrate the value of supporting godly leadership. Christians today should support and pray for their leaders, both in the church and in society, to uphold righteousness and justice.
Biblical Reference: 1 Timothy 2:1-2
“I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people— for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness.” (NIV)
Connection to a Loving God
God’s Faithfulness Through Generations
The repeated mention of the name Mattaniah across different periods in Israel’s history reflects God’s ongoing faithfulness to His people through generations. God remains committed to His covenant and continues to raise faithful individuals to serve Him.
Biblical Reference: Deuteronomy 7:9
“Know therefore that the Lord your God is God; he is the faithful God, keeping his covenant of love to a thousand generations of those who love him and keep his commandments.” (NIV)
Assurance of God’s Provision
The involvement of various Mattaniahs in temple service and reforms underscores God’s provision for His people. God provides the necessary resources, leaders, and workers to accomplish His purposes, assuring believers of His ongoing care and provision.
Biblical Reference: Philippians 4:19
“And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus.” (NIV)
Connection to Jesus Christ
Jesus, the Ultimate Gift
The name Mattaniah, meaning “gift of the Lord,” points to the ultimate gift God has given to humanity—Jesus Christ. Jesus embodies God’s greatest act of love and provision, offering salvation and eternal life.
Biblical Reference: John 3:16
“For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.” (NIV)
Jesus’ Role in Worship and Service
The Mattaniahs who served in temple worship and reforms foreshadow the role of Jesus as our High Priest and the one who restores true worship. Jesus leads believers in the ultimate act of worship and service to God.
Biblical Reference: Hebrews 4:14-16
“Therefore, since we have a great high priest who has ascended into heaven, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold firmly to the faith we profess. For we do not have a high priest who is unable to empathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are—yet he did not sin. Let us then approach God’s throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.” (NIV)
Conclusion
The various individuals named Mattaniah in the Bible provide rich lessons and insights for modern Christians. Their faithfulness in service, commitment to purity and obedience, and support of godly leadership are examples to follow. These stories also highlight God’s faithfulness and provision throughout generations, culminating in the ultimate gift of Jesus Christ. Reflecting on the lives of these Mattaniahs deepens our understanding of God’s work and encourages us to live faithfully according to His Word.