In the genealogy of Jesus, in Matthew chapter one, there are 48 men named, by my count. Among all these men, four women are named. To be among such a distinguished list, to be in the blood line of the Christ, these women must have been special ladies. They were.
There was the twice widowed Tamar (vs 3), who bore twins with Judah. Then, Rahab (vs. 5), the harlot of Jericho whose life was spared by her faith (He. 11:31). Next, Ruth (vs. 5) is named, a Moabite woman who loved her mother-in-law and became the grandmother of King David. Also, Bathsheba (vs. 6), who committed adultery with the King, but gave birth to a future king. Lastly, Mary (vs. 16), the mother of Jesus.
Why were these women named among all these men of the tribe of Judah? I do not know. I am sure they were, or became godly, faithful mothers who gave birth to and raised some important men. That is not to be dismissed. After all, while the woman is not to “teach or exercise authority over a man” (and none did), they, however, were saved “through the bearing of children…in faith and love” (1 Tm. 2:12,15). There is much to respect regarding godly women. Their place in our churches, in our families, and in bearing and raising our children, is highly regarded in the eyes of God as clearly seen in the genealogy of our savior.
Happy Mother’s Day to All of God’s great Mothers!!
-Dennis Doughty
