The Women of Matthew 1 God’ Tapestry
Strange for a Jew to mention women! Why are they mentioned? The Tabernacle (Outer Court) The wooden posts of the Outer Court = The Cross Sat in Bronze - Mixed metal = Jesus as God and Man Covered by White Linen = Jesus Righteousness Hung by Silver Rings = Redemption This is Church / His Kingdom!
Tamar (vs. 3) - Genesis 38 Married to Judah’s sons, Er, then Onan. Both died without children Judah didn’t want his 3rd son to marry her! She dressed as a prostitute, slept with Judah for the promise of a goat, and kept his seal until payment. Judah found out his daughter-in-law was pregnant Wanted her burned She produced his seal and he declared her more righteous than himself. Perez & Zerah Born as twins
Rahab (vs. 5) - Joshua 2 Canaanite prostitute in Jericho She hid 2 spies sent by Joshua Received a deal of protection for her kindness Recognized by a scarlet cord Saved and accepted into Israel by marrying Salmon Became the mother of Boaz! (He would marry Ruth)
Ruth (vs. 5) - Ruth (Love story) Moabitess = cursed because of Balaam (Duet 23:3) She was within the 10 generations of curse Yet married Boaz and was included by God
The wife of Uriah (vs. 6) - 2 Samuel 11 Bathsheba 1st son died at birth Later, another son would be allowed Solomon Labeling her as “Uriah’s wife” highlights Davids’ sin!
Mary (vs. 16) No mentionable baggage Married to Joseph Because of that association the legal line of Jesus was complete Mary is highly favored and chosen (Luke 1:28)
Why are they mentioned? Matthew doesn’t say...BUT, In Jesus: Social barriers are broken down Rahab & Ruth / Gentiles Sexist barriers are broken down Sin barriers are broken down Galatians 3:28 = level playing field with Jesus This is His Kingdom and He is King