Who Was Matthat in the Bible?
A Man Living at the Time of Exile and Return
Matthat is a figure mentioned in the genealogy of Jesus Christ as recorded in the Gospel of Luke. He is identified as the son of Levi and the father of Heli, situating him within the lineage that traces Jesus’ ancestry through Mary. This genealogy is significant for understanding Jesus’ connection to both the royal line of David and all humanity.
Biblical Reference: Luke 3:24
“the son of Matthat, the son of Levi, the son of Melchi, the son of Jannai, the son of Joseph” (NIV)
Biblical Reference: Luke 3:29
“the son of Joshua, the son of Eliezer, the son of Jorim, the son of Matthat, the son of Levi” (NIV)
The Historical Context of Matthat
Matthat lived during the period of the Exile and Return, a critical era in Jewish history. The Babylonian Exile, which began in 586 BCE, was a consequence of Israel’s persistent disobedience and idolatry. Despite this, God remained faithful to His promises, and after 70 years, He facilitated the return of the Jews to their homeland. This period was marked by rebuilding the temple, restoring the community, and renewing the covenant with God.
Matthat’s Significance in Jesus’ Genealogy
The genealogy in Luke 3 traces Jesus’ lineage back to Adam, emphasizing His connection to all humanity. This lineage is crucial for several reasons:
- Fulfilling Messianic Prophecies: The genealogies in the Bible establish the historical and legal right of Jesus to the throne of David, fulfilling the Messianic prophecies of the Old Testament (2 Samuel 7:12-16; Isaiah 9:6-7).
- Affirming Jesus’ Humanity: By tracing Jesus’ lineage back to Adam, the genealogy underscores His humanity. Jesus was born into the human race to redeem mankind (Romans 5:12-21).
- Universal Scope of Salvation: The genealogy in Luke highlights the universal mission of Jesus as the Savior of all people, both Jew and Gentile. This inclusion points to the promise given to Abraham that through his offspring, all nations would be blessed (Genesis 12:3).
Lessons for the Modern Christian
The Importance of Genealogy and Heritage
The mention of Matthat in Jesus’ genealogy emphasizes the importance of understanding one’s spiritual heritage. Each individual in this lineage played a role in the unfolding story of salvation, highlighting the value of continuity in God’s redemptive plan.
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
Matthat’s place in the genealogy 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 Universal Nature of Salvation
The genealogy in Luke underscores the universal nature of Jesus’ mission. Salvation is offered to all who believe in Jesus, regardless of their background. This inclusive message is a cornerstone of the Gospel, encouraging believers to share the good news with everyone.
Biblical Reference: Romans 1:16
“For I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God that brings salvation to everyone who believes: first to the Jew, then to the Gentile.” (NIV)
Connection to a Loving God
God’s Faithfulness to His Promises
The genealogy of Jesus, including Matthat, 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 Matthat 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
Matthat’s place in the genealogy of Jesus highlights the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies concerning the Messiah. Jesus’ lineage through David and Matthat 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 Matthat 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
Matthat, mentioned in Luke 3:24, plays a significant role 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, Matthat’s mention offers valuable lessons on trusting in God’s plan, recognizing the universal scope of salvation, and understanding the continuity of God’s redemptive work through history. Ultimately, the genealogy of Jesus, including figures like Matthat, points to the fulfillment of God’s plan through Jesus Christ, encouraging believers to live faithfully and with confidence in God’s love and sovereignty.