266 - Why Matthew Starts with a Genealogy

Between Sundays

Why does Matthew kick off the story of Jesus with a long, dusty list of names? And why should you care? In this episode of Between Sundays, the gang digs into why genealogies are NOT boring — and why Matthew’s opening chapter is actually a revolutionary declaration of God’s faithfulness. We unpack: Why the Gospel of Matthew mattered so much that early Christians were willing to die for it. How Jesus’ family tree ties Him directly to God’s promises, even through generations of failure, scandal, and exile. Why the inclusion of Tamar, Rahab, Ruth, and Bathsheba in the genealogy flips ancient expectations on their head. What this ancient list of names has to say to a modern Church facing division, doubt, and distraction. Who the modern-day "outcasts" would be if a new genealogy were written today. Plus: Tyler’s great-great-grandpa Jeptha Troyer gets a shoutout Barry has a new piggie And we wrestle with why we often treat Scripture like a relic instead of the revolutionary manifesto it really is. Whether you love Bible deep dives or have always been tempted to skim Matthew 1, this episode will open your eyes to the power of God’s promises and your place in His ongoing story. Subscribe, comment, and like Between Sundays!