"Now these are the generations of Pharez: Pharez begat Hezron."
Context and Background:Ruth is a book in the Old Testament, and it tells the story of Ruth, a Moabite woman who became the great-grandmother of King David. Ruth’s story is set during the time of the judges in Israel, a period of transition between the leadership of Moses and Joshua and the establishment of the monarchy under King Saul.
Genealogy and Importance:Ruth 4:18 is a verse that marks the beginning of a genealogy or lineage. It mentions the generations of Pharez, who was one of the twin sons of Judah. Pharez’s descendants are significant because he became an ancestor of King David and, ultimately, of Jesus Christ.
Pharez and His Lineage:Pharez, the son of Judah, is an important figure in the lineage leading to Jesus Christ. He was born through an interesting story involving Tamar, his daughter-in-law. In Genesis 38, we learn that Tamar disguised herself as a prostitute to seduce Judah and ensure the continuation of Judah’s family line. When Judah discovered Tamar’s pregnancy, he recognised her righteousness and acknowledged that he was the father. Tamar gave birth to twins, Pharez being one of them.
Hezron and the Royal Lineage:The verse specifically mentions that Pharez begat Hezron. Hezron was the son of Pharez and became an important figure in the royal lineage of Israel. Hezron’s descendants would eventually include King David, from whom Jesus Christ would descend in the New Testament.
Lessons from Ruth 4:18:
- God’s Redemptive Plan:The story of Ruth and the genealogy it presents demonstrate God’s redemptive plan. Ruth, a Moabite woman, became an instrument in God’s plan to preserve the lineage leading to Jesus Christ. This emphasises that God can use anyone, regardless of their background, to accomplish His purposes.
- Faithfulness and Righteousness:The mention of Pharez’s story highlights the importance of faithfulness and righteousness. Tamar’s actions, though unconventional, demonstrated her commitment to ensure the preservation of the family line and ultimately the fulfilment of God’s promises.
- God’s Sovereignty:The genealogy of Pharez leading to Hezron reminds us of God’s sovereignty in orchestrating the course of history. God had a specific plan and purpose for the descendants of Pharez, and He faithfully guided their journey to fulfil His ultimate plan of salvation through Jesus Christ.
Application:As we reflect on Ruth 4:18, we can find encouragement in God’s redemptive plan and His ability to use ordinary individuals to accomplish extraordinary things. We should remain faithful to God and His purposes, even when faced with challenging circumstances or unconventional paths. Additionally, we can trust in God’s sovereignty, knowing that He is in control and working out His plans in our lives.
Overall, Ruth 4:18 provides a glimpse into the lineage leading to Jesus Christ and highlights God’s faithfulness and sovereignty in fulfilling His promises.
