Who Was Mattithiah in the Bible?
The Name of Four Old Testament Israelites
Mattithiah, a name meaning “gift of Yahweh” or “Yahweh has given,” refers to four distinct individuals in the Old Testament. Each Mattithiah played a significant role in the religious and communal life of Israel, particularly among the Levites.
Mattithiah the Levite
Biblical Reference: 1 Chronicles 9:31
“A Levite named Mattithiah, the firstborn son of Shallum the Korahite, was entrusted with the responsibility for baking the offering bread.” (NIV)
This Mattithiah was a Levite, living after the exile, and was responsible for baking the offering bread. Levites were members of the tribe of Levi, set apart for religious duties in ancient Israel. They assisted the priests in various tasks related to the temple and worship practices. Mattithiah’s role underscores the importance of each task in the temple, no matter how seemingly mundane, in the service of God.
Mattithiah the Singer
Biblical Reference: 1 Chronicles 15:18
“and with them their relatives of the second rank: Zechariah, Jaaziel, Shemiramoth, Jehiel, Unni, Eliab, Benaiah, Maaseiah, Mattithiah, Eliphelehu, Mikneiah, Obed-Edom, and Jeiel, the gatekeepers.” (NIV)
Mattithiah is also mentioned as a singer during the time of the United Monarchy. He was a son of Jeduthun, a prominent Levitical singer, and served in leading the people in worship through music. Singers played a vital role in the religious life of Israel, leading the community in songs of praise and thanksgiving. This role highlights the significance of worship and music in expressing devotion to God.
Mattithiah the Post-Exile Divorcee
Biblical Reference: Ezra 10:43
“From the descendants of Nebo: Jeiel, Mattithiah, Zabad, Zebina, Jaddai, Joel, and Benaiah.” (NIV)
Another Mattithiah is mentioned in Ezra 10:43, where he is listed among those who had taken foreign wives. As part of the restoration process following the exile, these men were required to divorce their foreign wives to preserve the purity of Israel’s worship and covenant relationship with God. This difficult decision was necessary to restore the community’s spiritual health.
Mattithiah the Teacher
Biblical Reference: Nehemiah 8:4
“Ezra the scribe stood on a high wooden platform built for the occasion. Beside him on his right stood Mattithiah, Shema, Anaiah, Uriah, Hilkiah, and Maaseiah; and on his left were Pedaiah, Mishael, Malkijah, Hashum, Hashbaddanah, Zechariah, and Meshullam.” (NIV)
Mattithiah also served as one of the Levites who assisted Ezra in teaching the Law of Moses to the people. This role was crucial during the time of Nehemiah, as the people of Israel were reestablishing their identity and commitment to God’s covenant after returning from exile. Teaching the law ensured that the community understood and followed God’s commands.
Lessons for the Modern Christian
The Importance of Every Role in God’s Service
The different roles of Mattithiah, whether as a bread baker, singer, or teacher, illustrate that every task in God’s service is valuable. Modern Christians can learn that regardless of their role or occupation, their work is significant when done for God’s glory.
Biblical Reference: Colossians 3:23-24
“Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving.” (NIV)
The Necessity of Obedience and Purity
The account of Mattithiah, who divorced his foreign wife as part of the community’s restoration, highlights the importance of obedience and maintaining spiritual purity. Christians today are reminded to uphold God’s standards and live lives that reflect their commitment to Him.
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)
The Vital Role of Teaching God’s Word
Mattithiah’s role as a teacher alongside Ezra emphasizes the importance of teaching and understanding God’s Word. Modern Christians are encouraged to study the Bible diligently and share its truths with others, fostering spiritual growth and understanding within the community.
Biblical Reference: 2 Timothy 2:15
“Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly handles the word of truth.” (NIV)
Connection to a Loving God
God’s Provision and Guidance
Mattithiah’s various roles demonstrate God’s provision and guidance in the lives of His people. Whether providing for the physical needs through the baking of bread or spiritual nourishment through teaching, God ensures His people are cared for.
Biblical Reference: Philippians 4:19
“And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus.” (NIV)
Assurance of God’s Faithfulness
The restoration efforts after the exile, including the actions of men like Mattithiah, reflect God’s faithfulness to His promises. God continually works to bring His people back into a right relationship with Him.
Biblical Reference: Lamentations 3:22-23
“Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.” (NIV)
Connection to Jesus Christ
Jesus as the Fulfillment of the Law
Mattithiah’s involvement in teaching the Law of Moses points to the fulfillment of the law in Jesus Christ. Jesus perfectly fulfilled the law and offers His righteousness to those who believe in Him, highlighting the continuity and completion of God’s redemptive plan.
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)
The Role of Worship and Praise
As a singer, Mattithiah’s role in worshiping God through music finds its ultimate fulfillment in Jesus, who leads His followers in perfect worship. Christians today are called to worship God in spirit and truth, following Jesus’ example.
Biblical Reference: John 4:23-24
“Yet a time is coming and has now come when the true worshipers will worship the Father in the Spirit and in truth, for they are the kind of worshipers the Father seeks. God is spirit, and his worshipers must worship in the Spirit and in truth.” (NIV)
Conclusion
Mattithiah, mentioned in various roles in the Old Testament, illustrates the diverse ways in which God’s people serve Him. Whether as a Levite, singer, post-exile divorcee, or teacher, Mattithiah’s life underscores the importance of every role in God’s service, the necessity of obedience, and the value of teaching God’s Word. For modern Christians, his story provides valuable lessons on living faithfully, maintaining spiritual purity, and contributing to the community’s worship and understanding of God. Through the life and actions of Mattithiah, believers are reminded of God’s provision, faithfulness, and the ultimate fulfillment of His redemptive plan through Jesus Christ.