Be Steadfast

When we think of biblical genealogies, we often imagine a long list of names, tracing lineage from one generation to the next. These lists, particularly in ancient times, primarily included men, as lineage and inheritance were typically passed down through the male line. But when we turn to Matthew 1—the genealogy of Jesus—something surprising happens: five women are included. Tamar, Rahab, Ruth, Bathsheba (referred to as “the wife of Uriah”), and Mary each find a place in the royal lineage of Christ. Their inclusion is not incidental. Their stories are marked by scandal, hardship, and outsider status, yet they each became part of the redemptive plan of God. Their presence in Jesus' genealogy reminds us that God’s grace reaches beyond societal norms, extending His mercy to the unexpected and the broken. Let’s take a closer look at these five remarkable women and what their inclusion tells us about the gospel. Tamar: A Story of Justice and Redemption Tamar’s story (Genesis 38) ...

The Bible is not just a collection of disconnected stories—it is a unified narrative, telling the story of God's redemptive plan from Genesis to Revelation. One of the most fascinating aspects of Scripture is how the Old Testament foreshadows Jesus Christ in remarkable ways. This “scarlet thread” of redemption weaves through the Bible, revealing Jesus long before His birth in Bethlehem. Many believers focus on Jesus' life and ministry in the New Testament, but the Old Testament is filled with shadows and symbols pointing to Him. By recognizing these connections, we gain a deeper understanding of God's plan and a greater appreciation for the consistency of Scripture. 1. Jesus in Creation Most people associate Jesus’ work with the cross, but did you know that He was present at creation? John 1:1-3 tells us that Jesus (the Word) was with God in the beginning and that "through Him all things were made." Paul confirms this in Colossians 1:16, saying that "all ...