Who Was Matthan in the Bible?
A Man Living at the Time of Exile and Return
Matthan is a figure mentioned in the genealogy of Jesus Christ as recorded in the Gospel of Matthew. Identified as a man of the tribe of Judah, Matthan lived during the tumultuous period of the Exile and Return. This genealogy, presented in Matthew 1:1-17, traces Jesus’ lineage back to Abraham, highlighting significant figures in Israel’s history, including Matthan.
Biblical Reference: Matthew 1:15
“Eliud the father of Eleazar, Eleazar the father of Matthan, Matthan the father of Jacob” (NIV)
Historical Context of Matthan
The period of the Exile and Return was a critical time for the Jewish people. The Babylonian Exile, which began in 586 BCE, was a result of Israel’s persistent disobedience and idolatry, leading to God’s judgment. During this time, many Jews were taken captive to Babylon. However, God remained faithful to His promises, and after 70 years, He facilitated their return to Jerusalem. The return marked a period of rebuilding and restoration, both physically and spiritually.
Matthan’s Lineage
Matthan is mentioned as the son of Eleazar and the father of Jacob, placing him within the lineage of Jesus Christ. This genealogy is significant for several reasons:
- The Tribe of Judah: Matthan belonged to the tribe of Judah, the tribe from which King David came. It was prophesied that the Messiah would come from this tribe (Genesis 49:10). Matthan’s inclusion underscores the fulfillment of this prophecy through Jesus Christ.
- Eleazar’s Significance: Eleazar, Matthan’s father, shares a name with an important Old Testament figure—Eleazar, the third son of Aaron, who served as a high priest. While not the same person, the name Eleazar carries connotations of priesthood and leadership.
- Jacob’s Importance: Matthan’s son Jacob, who shares his name with the patriarch Jacob (later named Israel), highlights the continuity of God’s covenant with His people. Jacob, the patriarch, was the father of the twelve tribes of Israel, including Judah.
Lessons for the Modern Christian
The Importance of Lineage and Heritage
The inclusion of Matthan in Jesus’ genealogy underscores the importance of lineage and heritage in God’s redemptive plan. Each person in this lineage played a role in the unfolding story of salvation. For modern Christians, this emphasizes the value of understanding one’s spiritual heritage and the continuity of God’s work across 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)
Trusting in God’s Sovereignty
Matthan’s place in the genealogy of Jesus illustrates God’s sovereignty over history. Despite the challenges of exile and the uncertainties of 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 Significance of Obedience and Faithfulness
The story of Matthan, along with others in the genealogy, highlights the importance of obedience and faithfulness to God’s commands. Despite the periods of disobedience that led to exile, the return and restoration were marked by a renewed commitment to follow God’s ways. Christians today are called to live faithfully and obediently, trusting in God’s promises.
Biblical Reference: 1 Samuel 15:22
“But Samuel replied: ‘Does the LORD delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices as much as in obeying the LORD? To obey is better than sacrifice, and to heed is better than the fat of rams.'” (NIV)
Connection to a Loving God
God’s Faithfulness to His Promises
The genealogy of Jesus, including Matthan, 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 Matthan 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
Matthan’s place in the genealogy of Jesus highlights the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies concerning the Messiah. Jesus’ lineage through David and Matthan 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 Matthan 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
Matthan, mentioned in Matthew 1:15, 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, Matthan’s 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 Matthan, 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.