Who Was Mattathias in the Bible?
A Man Living at the Time of Exile and Return
Mattathias, as mentioned in Luke 3:25, is a significant figure in the genealogy of Jesus Christ. Living during the time of the Exile and return, Mattathias is identified as the son of Amos and the father of Joseph. His inclusion in the genealogy underscores his importance in the lineage that leads to the Messiah, fulfilling the prophecies of a descendant of David who would come to save His people. In Luke 3:26, another man named Mattathias, the son of Semein, is mentioned.
Biblical Context of Mattathias
Biblical Reference: Luke 3:25
“the son of Mattathias, the son of Amos, the son of Nahum, the son of Esli, the son of Naggai” (NIV)
In the genealogy presented in Luke, Mattathias is part of a lineage that traces Jesus’ ancestry back through King David and beyond. This genealogy is crucial for establishing Jesus’ identity as the promised Messiah and the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies.
Biblical Reference: Luke 3:26
“the son of Maath, the son of Mattathias, the son of Semein, the son of Josech, the son of Joda” (NIV)
Historical and Theological Context
The period of the Exile and return was a challenging time for the people of Judah. They faced captivity in Babylon due to their disobedience to God, yet God remained faithful to His promises. The return from exile marked a period of restoration and rebuilding, both physically and spiritually. Mattathias’ presence in this lineage highlights God’s faithfulness in preserving the Davidic line through times of trial and hardship.
The Significance of Genealogies
In Jewish tradition, genealogies were vital for establishing identity, inheritance rights, and tribal affiliations. The genealogy of Jesus, which includes Mattathias, serves not only to validate Jesus’ Messianic credentials but also to demonstrate God’s sovereign plan throughout history.
Lessons for the Modern Christian
Trusting in God’s Sovereignty
The inclusion of Mattathias in Jesus’ genealogy illustrates God’s sovereignty over history. Despite the tumultuous period of the Exile and return, God faithfully preserved the lineage through which the Messiah would come. Modern Christians can trust that God is in control of their lives, working through every circumstance to fulfill His purposes.
Biblical Reference: Romans 8:28
“And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.” (NIV)
The Importance of Faithfulness
Mattathias’ place in the genealogy of Jesus highlights the importance of faithfulness across generations. Each individual played a role in God’s redemptive plan, demonstrating that faithfulness in even seemingly small roles can have significant impacts. Christians are encouraged to remain faithful in their daily walk, knowing that their obedience contributes to God’s larger plan.
Biblical Reference: 1 Corinthians 4:2
“Now it is required that those who have been given a trust must prove faithful.” (NIV)
Continuity of God’s Plan
The genealogy that includes Mattathias underscores the continuity of God’s plan from the Old Testament to the New Testament. It reminds believers that God’s promises are unwavering and that He is faithful to bring them to fruition in His perfect timing.
Biblical Reference: Hebrews 13:8
“Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.” (NIV)
Connection to a Loving God
God’s Faithfulness to His Promises
The genealogy of Jesus, including Mattathias, reflects God’s unwavering faithfulness to His promises. Despite the challenges faced during the Exile, God preserved the lineage of David, culminating in the birth of Jesus. This assures believers that God remains faithful to His promises today.
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 Plan
The story of Mattathias within the genealogy provides assurance that God’s plan is always at work, even in difficult times. Believers can find comfort in knowing that God’s hand is upon their lives, guiding them according to His divine plan.
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)
Connection to Jesus Christ
Jesus as the Fulfillment of Prophecy
Mattathias’ place in the genealogy of Jesus highlights the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies concerning the Messiah. Jesus’ lineage through David and Mattathias confirms His rightful place as the Savior, fulfilling God’s promise of redemption.
Biblical Reference: Matthew 1:1
“This is the genealogy of Jesus the Messiah the son of David, the son of Abraham:” (NIV)
The Ultimate Redemption Through Christ
The genealogy that includes Mattathias points to the ultimate redemption brought by Jesus Christ. Just as God preserved the lineage through which the Messiah would come, Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection provide salvation and reconciliation for all who believe.
Biblical Reference: Galatians 4:4-5
“But when the set time had fully come, God sent his Son, born of a woman, born under the law, to redeem those under the law, that we might receive adoption to sonship.” (NIV)
Conclusion
Mattathias, though briefly mentioned in the Bible, holds a significant place in the genealogy of Jesus Christ. His inclusion underscores God’s meticulous orchestration of history, fulfilling the Messianic prophecies and demonstrating His sovereignty and faithfulness. For modern Christians, Mattathias’ mention offers valuable lessons on trusting in God’s plan, remaining faithful across generations, and finding assurance in God’s unwavering promises. Ultimately, the genealogy of Jesus, including figures like Mattathias, points to the fulfillment of God’s redemptive plan through Jesus Christ, encouraging believers to live faithfully and with confidence in God’s love and sovereignty.