The Genealogy of JesusSample

We won’t do this often, but today our reading repeats from yesterday. So I pray you will read with fresh eyes.

I’ve heard teaching about the audacious grace of God in allowing the inclusion of a prostitute, like Rahab, or a temptress, like Tamar, in the genealogy of Jesus. It is audacious grace that includes any of us in the family of God. And technically, the descriptions of the women are accurate.

However, Judah and two of his sons sinned against Tamar. Her first husband was so wicked God put him to death. Her second husband withheld conception from her and left her no recourse (God also put him to death). Finally, her father-in-law withheld his third son from her altogether. Tamar was desperate.

Think back to the serpent in the garden, the original deceiver. Genesis 3:15 describes “enmity between [the serpent] and the woman, and between your offspring and her offspring.” By using the enemy’s tactics of deceit against the evil taking place, Tamar contends for her offspring—from whom Christ will eventually descend. Jen Wilkin says, “You might say, in New Testament terms, we see Tamar as wise as a serpent while being as innocent as a dove.”

1. How do you view the characters in the account of Genesis 38? What is something new you’ve learned?

Prayer: Lord, this world is so broken. Help me know how to honor you in all I do and say.