If we are honest, we can sometimes get bogged down in reading genealogies. We begin to wonder sometimes why they are important. This morning, we learn that God is reminding us through this genealogy that He has prepared Moses and Aaron for their ministry, and their arrival in Jacob’s family was due to His gracious providential working. The Lord had a great purpose for them both!
The Purpose of Genealogies
- God’s Reminder of His Providence & Purpose vs. 14-27
- Genealogies were common in the ancient near eastern literature during this time so that Israel would know their history and it was accurate.
- Here in this account, it is pointing us back to the patriarchs and reminds Israel and us of God’s providential plan and purpose to redeem His people!
- Genealogies show us that God cares for individuals, and He has a personal relationship with all of His sons and daughters.
- Only the first three sons of Jacob are listed in this genealogy, the sons of Reuben, Simeon, and Levi. Moses and Aaron did not come from the firstborn of Jacob but from his third son, Levi. The Lord is reminding Israel and us that He graciously chooses who to be His instruments of grace and deliverance for His people. His choosing doesn’t always make sense to us but by looking back aren’t we thankful for it! Our God knows what He is doing!
- In context, the focus of this genealogy seems to be Aaron, and I believe what the Lord is showing is that he is a legitimate brother/partner to Moses in the deliverance of Israel from Egypt. Ex. 2
Christ Connection: There is another important genealogy that is recorded in the gospel of Matthew chapter 1. It is there that we can trace Jesus Christ who is the KING, the long-awaited Messiah has come and has delivered His people from their sins! Praise the LORD!
Application for us:
- God doesn’t make mistakes. He is purposeful in all things. He chooses His people by His sovereign grace to the praise of His glorious grace!
- You are not here by accident, and neither is your salvation! Eph. 1:3-14
- You are here for a purpose. That is to know, enjoy, and make much of Jesus Christ your Savior and LORD! Jer. 1:5
- May we be humbled by God’s grace, encouraged by God’s providence, and rejoiceful in God’s purpose for your life.
“Understand that God’s calling means God’s enabling, and what He begins He always completes.
Warren Wiersbe