Topical Encyclopedia Er is a biblical figure mentioned in the genealogies of Jesus Christ, appearing in the Gospel of Matthew. He is noted as an ancestor in the lineage that traces the legal and royal descent of Jesus through Joseph, His earthly father. The name "Er" is of Hebrew origin, and it is believed to mean "watchful" or "awake."Biblical References: 1. Genealogy in the Gospel of Matthew: Er is mentioned in the genealogy of Jesus as recorded in the Gospel of Matthew. This genealogy traces the legal lineage of Jesus through Joseph, emphasizing His rightful claim to the throne of David. In Matthew 1:3 , it states: "Judah was the father of Perez and Zerah by Tamar, Perez the father of Hezron, and Hezron the father of Ram." While Er is not directly mentioned in this verse, he is part of the broader genealogical context that includes Judah and his descendants. 2. Old Testament Background: The name Er first appears in the Old Testament in the Book of Genesis. Er was the firstborn son of Judah and his Canaanite wife, the daughter of Shua. Genesis 38:6-7 recounts: "Now Judah acquired a wife for Er, his firstborn, and her name was Tamar. But Er, Judah’s firstborn, was wicked in the sight of the LORD; so the LORD put him to death." This Er, however, is not the same Er mentioned in the genealogy of Jesus, as the latter is a descendant of Perez, the son of Judah and Tamar. Theological Significance: The inclusion of Er in the genealogy of Jesus highlights the fulfillment of God's promises through the line of Judah. Despite the moral failings and complexities within Judah's family, God's sovereign plan continued to unfold, ultimately leading to the birth of Jesus Christ, the Messiah. This demonstrates the grace and providence of God in using imperfect human lineage to bring about His divine purposes. Cultural and Historical Context: In the ancient Near Eastern context, genealogies were crucial for establishing legal rights, inheritance, and social status. The genealogy in Matthew serves to affirm Jesus' legal right to the throne of David, fulfilling Old Testament prophecies regarding the Messiah's lineage. The mention of Er, along with other ancestors, underscores the historical reality of Jesus' human ancestry and His connection to the people of Israel. Conclusion: While Er's role in the genealogy is brief, his inclusion in the lineage of Jesus serves as a testament to the unfolding of God's redemptive plan through history. The genealogies in the Gospels remind believers of the faithfulness of God in fulfilling His promises and the intricate tapestry of human history that leads to the coming of the Savior. Nave's Topical Index Luke 3:28Which was the son of Melchi, which was the son of Addi, which was the son of Cosam, which was the son of Elmodam, which was the son of Er, Nave's Topical Index Library The Approval of the Spirit Hymns of Hope and Consolation. The Land and the People. Set at Liberty. 1 John ii. 17-Dec Resources What is prophetic prayer? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is a prayer cloth? | GotQuestions.org What is a prayer closet? | GotQuestions.org Er: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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