Who Was Mattatha in the Bible?
A Man Living at the Time of the United Monarchy
Mattatha is a figure mentioned in the genealogy of Jesus Christ as recorded in the Gospel of Luke. His brief mention in Luke 3:31 places him within the rich tapestry of biblical lineage, highlighting the significance of his role in the ancestral line leading to the Messiah.
Biblical Reference: Luke 3:31
“the son of Melea, the son of Menna, the son of Mattatha, the son of Nathan, the son of David” (NIV)
Mattatha’s Lineage
Mattatha is described as a man from the tribe of Judah, which is significant because Jesus is referred to as the Lion of the tribe of Judah (Revelation 5:5). His mention in the genealogy of Jesus underscores the meticulous care with which God orchestrated the family line leading to the birth of Christ.
Connection to the Tribe of Judah
The tribe of Judah is one of the twelve tribes of Israel, descended from Judah, the fourth son of Jacob. The tribe holds a prominent place in biblical history and prophecy, as it was foretold that the Messiah would come from Judah’s line (Genesis 49:10). Mattatha’s inclusion in this lineage reaffirms the fulfillment of this prophecy through Jesus Christ.
Connection to Nathan
Mattatha is noted as the son of Nathan, a significant detail in understanding his place in the genealogy. This Nathan is not the prophet Nathan who served during King David’s time (2 Samuel 7:2-4), but rather another individual with the same name, indicating the continuity of David’s royal lineage.
Nathan, Son of David
Nathan, the father of Mattatha, is one of King David’s sons, born to Bathsheba (1 Chronicles 3:5). This connection emphasizes the royal lineage of Jesus, as Nathan’s line diverges from the line of Solomon, yet both lines converge in Jesus, fulfilling the prophecy of a descendant of David reigning forever (2 Samuel 7:16).
Father of Menna
Mattatha is also mentioned as the father of Menna. While not much is known about Menna from the biblical text, his inclusion in the genealogy underscores the significance of each individual in the lineage of Jesus and the intricate plan of God in bringing forth the Savior of the world.
The Importance of Genealogies
Biblical genealogies serve to establish the historical and theological foundations of God’s redemptive plan. Each name listed, including Mattatha’s, represents a link in the divine chain leading to the fulfillment of God’s promises through Jesus Christ.
Lessons for the Modern Christian
The Sovereignty of God’s Plan
The genealogy of Jesus, including Mattatha’s mention, illustrates God’s sovereign orchestration of history. Despite human flaws and failures, God’s plan remains steadfast and unthwarted. Modern Christians can find assurance in knowing that God is in control and that His plans for their lives are purposeful and good.
Biblical Reference: Jeremiah 29:11
“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” (NIV)
Faithfulness Across Generations
The inclusion of figures like Mattatha in Jesus’ genealogy highlights the faithfulness of God across generations. It encourages Christians to trust in God’s faithfulness, not only in their own lives but also in the lives of future generations.
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)
The Value of Every Individual
Each name in the genealogy of Jesus, including Mattatha, underscores the value of every individual in God’s redemptive plan. This reminds Christians that their lives have significance and that they play a unique role in God’s story.
Biblical Reference: 1 Corinthians 12:12
“Just as a body, though one, has many parts, but all its many parts form one body, so it is with Christ.” (NIV)
Connection to a Loving God
God’s Personal Involvement
The detailed genealogies in the Bible, including the mention of Mattatha, reflect God’s personal involvement in the lives of His people. This demonstrates God’s intimate knowledge and care for each person, assuring Christians of His love and attention to their lives.
Biblical Reference: Psalm 139:1-3
“You have searched me, LORD, and you know me. You know when I sit and when I rise; you perceive my thoughts from afar. You discern my going out and my lying down; you are familiar with all my ways.” (NIV)
Assurance of God’s Promises
The fulfillment of prophecies through the lineage of Jesus, including the role of Mattatha, assures believers of God’s unwavering commitment to His promises. Christians can trust that God will fulfill His promises in their lives just as He did through the generations leading to Christ.
Biblical Reference: 2 Peter 1:4
“Through these he has given us his very great and precious promises, so that through them you may participate in the divine nature, having escaped the corruption in the world caused by evil desires.” (NIV)
Connection to Jesus Christ
Jesus as the Fulfillment of Prophecy
Mattatha’s place in Jesus’ genealogy highlights the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies concerning the Messiah’s lineage. Jesus is the promised descendant of David, born to reign forever, bringing salvation to humanity.
Biblical Reference: Matthew 1:1
“This is the genealogy of Jesus the Messiah the son of David, the son of Abraham.” (NIV)
The Continuity of God’s Redemptive Plan
The genealogy connecting Mattatha to Jesus illustrates the continuity of God’s redemptive plan from the Old Testament to the New Testament. Jesus Christ, the ultimate fulfillment of God’s promises, bridges the gap between the covenants, offering salvation to all.
Biblical Reference: Hebrews 13:8
“Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.” (NIV)
Conclusion
Mattatha, though briefly mentioned in the Bible, holds a significant place in the genealogy of Jesus Christ. His inclusion underscores the meticulous care with which God orchestrated the lineage of the Messiah, fulfilling ancient prophecies and demonstrating His sovereignty and faithfulness. For modern Christians, Mattatha’s mention offers valuable lessons on the importance of trusting in God’s plan, the faithfulness of God across generations, and the significance of each individual in God’s redemptive story. It also reaffirms the ultimate fulfillment of God’s promises through Jesus Christ, encouraging believers to live faithfully and with assurance in God’s love and sovereignty.