What can we learn from the lineage of Jesus in Luke 3:28? A verse that seems obscure—yet radiates truth “son of Melchi, son of Addi, son of Cosam, son of Elmadam, son of Er” (Luke 3:28) Why this single verse matters • Luke is recording an unbroken, Spirit-guided genealogy (Luke 3:23; cf. 2 Timothy 3:16). • Every name is a historical person, anchoring Jesus in real time and space. • The list sits between famous forefathers (Zerubbabel, v. 27) and the patriarchs (v. 34). God values both the well-known and the almost forgotten. Portraits hidden in five names 1. Melchi — “my king.” Even in obscurity, the royal theme surfaces, echoing the promise that a King would arise from David’s line (2 Samuel 7:12-13). 2. Addi — “adorned/ornament.” God “beautifies the humble with salvation” (Psalm 149:4). Jesus will adorn His people with righteousness. 3. Cosam — likely “steadfast.” Previews the faithful obedience Christ displays (John 4:34). 4. Elmadam — “God is beloved.” The Father twice calls Jesus “My beloved Son” (Luke 3:22; 9:35). 5. Er — “watchful/awake.” Jesus later commands, “Stay awake” (Matthew 24:42), modeling perfect vigilance Himself. Lessons for today • God works through ordinary, sometimes nameless saints. Their faithfulness, though unnoticed by history, is etched forever in Scripture. • The line is continuous; so is God’s covenant faithfulness (Psalm 105:8-10). What He begins, He completes (Philippians 1:6). • Jesus shares genuine humanity (Hebrews 2:14). A real family tree enables Him to be our kinsman-redeemer (Ruth 4:14). • Luke’s upward genealogy (Adam, v. 38) stresses that Christ is Savior for all people, Jew and Gentile alike (Acts 10:34-35). • The varied meanings of these names hint at facets of Christ’s mission—royal, beautifying, steadfast, beloved, watchful—inviting worshipful reflection. Taking it to heart What looks like a simple roll call reminds us that: – Scripture never wastes words. – God’s redemptive plan weaves through generations, spotlighting His sovereignty. – In Christ, the obscure find lasting significance. |
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