Matthew 1:10

And Ezekias begat Manasses; and Manasses begat Amon; and Amon begat Josias;

Matthew 1:10 (KJV)

Context

Matthew 1:10 stands within the genealogy that opens the Gospel, tracing Jesus Christ’s legal lineage from Abraham through David. This verse records three generations of Judah’s kings: Hezekiah, Manasseh, Amon, and Josiah. By listing these kings, Matthew establishes Jesus’ rightful place as the descendant of David and the fulfillment of messianic prophecy.

Meaning

Ezekias (Hezekiah) was the son of Ahaz and the 13th king of Judah, reigning from about 715 to 686 BC. He is remembered for his faithfulness to God and his reforms of worship in Judah.

Manasses (Manasseh), Hezekiah’s son, became the 14th king and reigned from about 686 to 642 BC. Unlike his father, Manasseh was notoriously wicked, leading Judah into idolatry and shedding innocent blood. Yet after being taken captive by the Assyrians, he repented and turned back to God.

Amon, Manasseh’s son, ruled as the 15th king for only two years (about 642 to 640 BC). He followed his father’s earlier wickedness and did not humble himself before the Lord. His reign ended when his own servants assassinated him.

Josias (Josiah), Amon’s son, became the 16th king and reigned from about 640 to 609 BC. He is celebrated as one of Judah’s most righteous kings. Josiah repaired the temple, rediscovered the Book of the Law, and led the nation in a return to covenant faithfulness.

Biblical connections

The genealogy in Matthew 1 deliberately includes these kings, even the wicked ones, to show that God’s redemptive plan advanced through flawed human history. Manasseh and Amon’s sins did not derail God’s purposes; Josiah’s faithfulness came after a legacy of rebellion. This pattern demonstrates the continuity of God’s covenant faithfulness across generations, culminating in Jesus, the promised King from David’s line.

Application

This verse reassures believers that God works through imperfect people and difficult circumstances. No family history or personal failure can prevent God from fulfilling His promises. Just as He preserved the line from Hezekiah to Josiah, He remains faithful to His covenant today, calling each generation to repentance and obedience.

Reflection

Consider how God has been at work in your own family line, even through seasons of faithfulness and failure. The same God who guided Judah’s kings is sovereign over your story, and His purposes will stand.