Book of Matthew - Chapter 1 - Verse 15

This verse comes from the genealogy of Jesus Christ as recorded in the Gospel of Matthew. It shows the lineage of Jesus through his earthly father, Joseph, tracing it back to King David and Abraham. Eliud, Eleazar, Matthan, and Jacob are all ancestors in this lineage. Understanding this genealogy is important in demonstrating Jesus' fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies regarding the promised Messiah who would come from the line of David. Each name mentioned here represents a link in the chain connecting Jesus to the Jewish royal bloodline. This verse helps to establish Jesus' rightful claim to the throne of David as the long-awaited Messiah. By studying the genealogy of Jesus, we can see how God worked throughout history to fulfill His promises and bring salvation to all through His Son, Jesus Christ.

As we delve into the genealogy of Jesus in this verse, it is important to note the significance of the names mentioned. In Hebrew tradition, names carry deep meanings and can provide insight into the character or destiny of an individual. Eliud, whose name means "God is praise," is the first in the line of ancestors leading to Jesus. Eleazar, meaning "God has helped," further emphasizes the divine intervention and assistance throughout generations. Matthan, believed to mean "gift," symbolizes the gift of salvation that is to come through the lineage of Jesus. Finally, Jacob, which means "supplanter" or "he who follows on another's heels," could represent the faithful followers of Christ who continue his mission. This progression of names signifies a legacy of praise, divine help, the gift of salvation, and the continuation of Jesus' work on earth.