Luke 3:28

Analysis & Commentary

Which was the son of Melchi, which was the son of Addi—Following Zerubbabel, the genealogy continues through lesser-known post-exilic descendants. The name Melchi (Μελχί) derives from Hebrew melekh (מֶלֶךְ, king), ironically pointing toward Jesus's true kingship despite these ancestors' lack of royal power after the exile.

This section covers the "silent centuries" between the Old Testament's close and Jesus's birth—approximately 400 years when Israel had no prophetic voice. Yet God was sovereignly preserving the messianic line through faithful, ordinary Israelites. Their obscurity magnifies grace: Jesus came not through continuing royal splendor but through humble preservation of covenant lineage.

Historical Context

The period from Zerubbabel (520 BC) to Jesus (4 BC) encompassed Persian rule, Alexander's conquest, the Maccabean revolt, and Roman occupation. These ancestors lived through centuries of foreign domination, messianic expectation, and religious development that shaped Second Temple Judaism into which Jesus was born.

Questions for Reflection

• How does God's preservation of the messianic line through centuries of political subjugation encourage your faith during times of waiting?
• What does the 'silent' period between testaments teach about trusting God's purposes even when He seems inactive?
• How might the humble circumstances of Jesus's ancestors have prepared His mission to the poor and marginalized?