Who Was Mattattah in the Bible?
A Man Living at the Time of Exile and Return
Mattattah is a biblical figure mentioned in Ezra 10:33. He lived during the period of the Exile and Return, a significant time in Israel’s history when the people of Judah returned to their homeland after years of Babylonian captivity. Mattattah is noted for having taken a foreign wife, a practice that was forbidden by God because it often led the Israelites into idolatry and spiritual compromise.
Biblical Reference: Ezra 10:33
“Of the sons of Hashum: Mattattah, Zabad, Eliphelet, Jeremai, Manasseh, and Shimei.” (NIV)
The Context of Exile and Return
The Exile was a result of Israel’s persistent disobedience and idolatry, leading to God’s judgment and their captivity in Babylon. However, God remained faithful to His promises, and after 70 years, He orchestrated their return to Jerusalem. The return from exile was marked by efforts to restore the temple, renew the covenant, and reestablish the community’s spiritual and cultural identity.
Mattattah’s Disobedience
Mattattah’s taking of a foreign wife was contrary to God’s commands. This prohibition was intended to protect the Israelites from the influence of pagan practices and idolatry, which had previously led to their downfall. Ezra 10 records the repentance and reforms led by Ezra to correct these transgressions.
Biblical Reference: Deuteronomy 7:3-4
“Do not intermarry with them. Do not give your daughters to their sons or take their daughters for your sons, for they will turn your children away from following me to serve other gods, and the LORD’s anger will burn against you and will quickly destroy you.” (NIV)
Lessons for the Modern Christian
The Importance of Obedience
Mattattah’s story serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of obedience to God’s commands. Disobedience, even in areas that may seem personal or cultural, can lead to significant spiritual consequences. Modern Christians are called to live lives of obedience, recognizing that God’s commands are designed for their well-being and spiritual health.
Biblical Reference: John 14:15
“If you love me, keep my commands.” (NIV)
The Need for Repentance
The narrative of Ezra 10 emphasizes the need for repentance and correction when God’s people stray from His commands. Mattattah’s inclusion in the list of those who had taken foreign wives underscores the communal effort required to restore faithfulness. Christians today must be willing to repent and seek God’s forgiveness when they fall into sin, fostering a heart that continually seeks to align with God’s will.
Biblical Reference: 1 John 1:9
“If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.” (NIV)
The Dangers of Compromise
Mattattah’s marriage to a foreign woman highlights the dangers of compromising one’s faith. Such compromises can lead to a gradual erosion of spiritual values and practices. Believers must be vigilant against allowing cultural or relational pressures to lead them away from their commitment to God.
Biblical Reference: Romans 12:2
“Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.” (NIV)
Connection to a Loving God
God’s Desire for Holiness
God’s commands regarding marriage and purity were rooted in His desire for His people to be holy and set apart. Mattattah’s story illustrates God’s ongoing concern for the spiritual health of His people. Modern Christians can draw encouragement from knowing that God’s directives are expressions of His love and desire for their 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)
Assurance of God’s Forgiveness
The reforms during Ezra’s time, including the actions involving Mattattah, demonstrate God’s willingness to forgive and restore His people when they repent. This highlights God’s loving nature and His readiness to welcome back those who turn to Him with sincere hearts.
Biblical Reference: Joel 2:13
“Rend your heart and not your garments. Return to the LORD your God, for he is gracious and compassionate, slow to anger and abounding in love, and he relents from sending calamity.” (NIV)
Connection to Jesus Christ
Jesus as the Fulfillment of the Law
Mattattah’s story, within the context of the Law and its regulations, points to the ultimate fulfillment in Jesus Christ. Jesus perfectly obeyed the Law and offers His righteousness to those who believe in Him. Through Jesus, believers are empowered to live lives of holiness and obedience, not by their strength but through His grace.
Biblical Reference: Matthew 5:17
“Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I have not come to abolish them but to fulfill them.” (NIV)
Redemption and Restoration Through Christ
The repentance and reforms in Ezra’s time prefigure the ultimate redemption and restoration available through Jesus Christ. Just as Mattattah and others were called to correct their ways and return to God, Jesus calls all people to repent and find new life in Him.
Biblical Reference: Acts 3:19
“Repent, then, and turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped out, that times of refreshing may come from the Lord.” (NIV)
Conclusion
Mattattah, mentioned in Ezra 10:33, serves as a reminder of the importance of obedience to God’s commands and the need for repentance. His story illustrates the dangers of compromising one’s faith and the necessity of adhering to God’s will to maintain a close relationship with Him. For modern Christians, Mattattah’s narrative underscores the value of living in obedience, the readiness to repent when needed, and the assurance of God’s forgiveness and restoration. Ultimately, his story points to the greater fulfillment found in Jesus Christ, who embodies perfect obedience and offers redemption to all who believe in Him. By learning from Mattattah’s example, believers today can strive to live faithfully and experience the blessings of walking in God’s ways.
References:
– Ezra 10:33 : Of the descendants of Hashum: Mattenai, Mattattah, Zabad, Eliphelet, Jeremai, Manasseh and Shimei.