Luke 3:25
Which was the son of Mattathias, which was the son of Amos, which was the son of Naum, which was the son of Esli, which was the son of Nagge,
Original Language Analysis
τοῦ
G3588
τοῦ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
1 of 10
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
Ματταθίου
Which was the son of Mattathias
G3161
Ματταθίου
Which was the son of Mattathias
Strong's:
G3161
Word #:
2 of 10
mattathias (i.e., mattithjah), an israelite and a christian
τοῦ
G3588
τοῦ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
3 of 10
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
τοῦ
G3588
τοῦ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
5 of 10
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
τοῦ
G3588
τοῦ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
7 of 10
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
Historical Context
These post-exilic names represent the period between David's reign (1010-970 BC) and the return from Babylonian captivity. Most individuals listed here have no other biblical record, yet their faithful preservation of lineage and faith sustained the messianic promise through Israel's darkest hours.
Questions for Reflection
- How does God's work through unknown, faithful generations challenge our culture's obsession with celebrity and recognition?
- What responsibility do you have to faithfully pass on the gospel to the next generation, even if your name is never widely known?
- How does this genealogy demonstrate that God's purposes are not thwarted by historical obscurity or lack of human recognition?
Related Resources
Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.
Analysis & Commentary
Which was the son of Mattathias, which was the son of Amos—The repetitive genealogical formula emphasizes continuity and historical authenticity. Each generation represents God's providential preservation of the messianic line through centuries of exile, oppression, and national upheaval. The name Amos (Ἀμώς, Amos) differs from the prophet Amos, illustrating how common these names were.
Luke's inclusion of unfamiliar names serves theological purposes: demonstrating Jesus's genuine humanity, fulfilling prophetic requirements for Messiah's Davidic descent, and showing God's faithfulness across generations where no individual achievements are recorded—only covenant faithfulness.