What lessons can we learn from the mention of Perez's sons in Genesis 46:12? Scripture snapshot “ ‘The sons of Judah: Er, Onan, Shelah, Perez, and Zerah (but Er and Onan died in the land of Canaan). The sons of Perez: Hezron and Hamul.’ ” — Genesis 46:12 Why Perez’s sons are singled out Judah had five living sons, yet only Perez’s boys—Hezron and Hamul—are named among the family entering Egypt. Their inclusion is deliberate, spotlighting the line God will advance for His redemptive plan. God redeems broken stories • Judah’s earlier sin with Tamar (Genesis 38) produced Perez, yet the Lord transforms that scandal into a conduit of blessing. • Genesis 38:29 reminds us Perez’s very name means “breaking through.” God breaks through human failure to keep His promises. • Romans 8:28 rings true here: God causes “all things to work together for good” for those He has called. Faithfulness through generations • Hezron and Hamul were likely infants or toddlers when listed, but God still counts them (cf. Exodus 1:5). • This shows the Lord’s covenant care extends to the smallest members of the household (Psalm 103:17). • Our obedience today influences grandchildren we may never meet. Early seeds of the Messianic line • From Perez comes Hezron, then Ram, leading to King David (Ruth 4:18-22). • Matthew 1:3 traces Christ directly through Perez and Hezron, underscoring that Genesis 46:12 is more than a headcount—it prepares the way for the Savior. Counting small beginnings • Only seventy persons entered Egypt (Genesis 46:27), yet God multiplied them into a nation (Exodus 1:7). • Noting two small boys hints that no contribution is insignificant when God is building His kingdom (Zechariah 4:10). Covenant grace is multigenerational • Numbers 26:20-21 shows Hezron and Hamul’s descendants thriving hundreds of years later. • Their mention encourages parents and grandparents to trust that faithful living today bears fruit long after we are gone (Deuteronomy 7:9). Takeaway list • God can repurpose past sins for His glory. • He values every member of the family, regardless of age or apparent importance. • Small beginnings in God’s plan often lead to great outcomes. • Our lineage and legacy matter because God writes His redemption story through generations. |
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