Understanding Matthew 1:6

Verse Reference: Matthew 1:6 - "And Jesse begat David the king; and David the king begat Solomon of her that had been the wife of Uriah."

Summary of Meaning

Matthew 1:6 serves as a crucial link in the genealogy of Jesus, emphasizing the royal lineage through David. This verse highlights David's status as a king and Solomon's birth through Bathsheba, underscoring God's grace in the midst of human failings. It illustrates both the continuity of God's plan through history and the themes of redemption and lineage in Scripture.

Insights from Commentaries

• Matthew Henry's Commentary:

  Henry emphasizes the significance of the genealogical account in establishing Jesus as the Messiah. He notes that David is a man after God's own heart and that the mention of Solomon demonstrates God's faithfulness in continuing His covenant, even through imperfect human relationships.

• Adam Clarke's Commentary:

  Clarke elaborates on the importance of Jesse, David’s father, and details how God chose David despite his humble beginnings. He also discusses the implications of Solomon's birth, stressing the connection between David's reign and the establishment of the kingdom of Israel, which points to Jesus' kingship.

• Albert Barnes' Notes:

  Barnes focuses on the historical context, noting how this genealogy sets the stage for understanding Jesus’ fulfillment of Old Testament prophecy. He points out that this lineage is intentional and serves as evidence of God's providence throughout history.

Cross-References and Thematic Connections

Matthew 1:6 connects to several other Bible verses that highlight the genealogy of Jesus and the underlying themes of kingship, grace, and covenant. Below are some key cross-references:

• 1 Samuel 16:1-13: The anointing of David as king, highlighting God's choice in leadership.
• 2 Samuel 7:12-16: God's covenant with David, promising that his lineage would endure forever.
• 1 Kings 1:28-30: Solomon’s anointing as king, confirming the continuation of David’s lineage.
• Psalm 89:3-4: The divine promise regarding David's descendants and the everlasting throne.
• Matthew 1:1: The introduction of Jesus' genealogy, emphasizing His royal descent from David.
• Luke 3:31: Another genealogical account showing Jesus' lineage through David.
• Jeremiah 23:5-6: Prophecy of the righteous branch from David, foretelling Jesus' coming.
• Romans 1:3: Paul's mention of Jesus being of the seed of David according to the flesh.
• Revelation 22:16: Jesus referring to Himself as the root and offspring of David.
• Hebrews 7:14: Confirmation of Jesus’ lineage as a direct descendant of Judah, reinforcing His Davidic connection.

Conclusion

Matthew 1:6 is more than a genealogical detail; it is a profound statement about God's redemptive history. By examining this verse alongside its cross-references, we see the intricate tapestry of God's unfolding plan from the Old Testament to the New, linking major biblical narratives and illustrating how all Scripture points to Christ.

Tools for Further Study

For those seeking to delve deeper into Bible verse connections, consider utilizing the following tools:

• Bible Concordance: A listing of words used in the Bible, useful for finding cross-references.
• Bible Cross-Reference Guide: A resource that provides connections between passages for comparative study.
• Cross-Reference Bible Study Methods: Techniques for utilizing cross-references in personal or group Bible study.
• Bible Reference Resources: Materials that facilitate deeper understanding of Scripture.
• Bible Chain References: A method to trace themes or events through Scripture.