06 The Genealogies of Jesus Christ

Dr. Doug Bookman

Scripture: Matthew 1:1-17

Notes: The legal right of Jesus to the throne of David

Questions/Observations:

This genealogy traces the line of Joseph, who was Jesus’s adoptive father, and thus whose rights and possessions lawfully passed to Jesus – including the legal right to the throne of David, passed down through Solomon. Notice the reference to Jeconiah in Matthew 1:11-12 and compare the curse on his line in Jeremiah 22:29-30.

Scripture: Luke 3:23-28

Notes: The physical (blood/seed) right of Jesus to the throne of David

Questions/Observations:

This genealogy traces the line of Mary (Eli/Heli is her father, Jesus’ maternal grandfather, His closest physical male antecedent). Notice that she too is a descendant of David through his son Nathan (Luke 3:31). Thus, Jesus is twice qualified to sit on the throne of David – by blood through his physical mother, Mary, and by legal right through his adoptive father, Joseph.

Adapted from the Life of Christ study notes of Dr. Doug Bookman, professor of New Testament Exposition at Shepherds Theological Seminary (used by permission).

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