Menu

Genealogies

From Issue: Discovery 3/1/2016

Dear Digger Doug,

Why does the Bible list the descendants of Adam, Abraham, and others?

Dear reader,

There are at least two reasons for these lists (also called genealogies). First, God chose the descendants of Abraham (the Hebrews) to “bless all nations” (see Genesis 12:1-3). Jesus descended from these people and brought that blessing. Therefore, it was very important to keep a record of their history. The genealogies provide such a record.

Second, the Bible foretold that Jesus would be a king, and that He would descend from David (see 2 Samuel 7:12-13). The genealogies in Matthew and Luke show that Jesus descended from David. This qualified Him to be king (see Matthew 1 and Luke 3). Though they are hard to read, these genealogies are very important for Christians.


Published

A copied sheet of paper

REPRODUCTION & DISCLAIMERS: We are happy to grant permission for this article to be reproduced in part or in its entirety, as long as our stipulations are observed.

Reproduction Stipulations→