Episode The Women of Christmas
While Old Testament genealogies often include lists of fathers and sons, join us to explore the four women who are presented in the genealogy of Jesus. Discover their important stories as you celebrate Christmas!
Chapter 1
As we celebrate Christmas this year, don’t miss the new Discover the Word series about “The Women of Christmas.” Bill Crowder leads Daniel Ryan Day, Elisa Morgan, and Vivian Mabuni in exploring the unusual inclusion of five women in the family line of Jesus at the beginning of the book of Matthew. In this first conversation, they talk about Tamar and the important way she represents grace.
Chapter 2
Does it seem unusual to you that a prostitute would be highlighted in Jesus’ genealogy at the beginning of Matthew’s telling the story of the Messiah’s life? Well, join the Discover the Word group as they explore the important role that Rahab played in His family tree. Discover with them how faith contributes to redemption, and how that can flow from generation to generation.
Chapter 3
Don’t you love how the Bible is full of stories about God inviting people to Himself who have felt the sting of being on the outside? In this conversation for Christmas Eve, the Discover the Word group will be talking about Ruth’s inclusion in Jesus’ genealogy. Join them as they reflect on the significance of her past, her loyal love, and her place of honor in Jesus’ family line.
Chapter 4
As we celebrate Christmas, join the Discover the Word group as they explore another woman included in Jesus’ genealogy at the beginning of Matthew. You may be surprised that she isn’t actually named in His family tree, so we’ll discuss why and how her story reveals how God can redeem even the most broken situations.
Chapter 5
What comes to mind when you think about Mary, the mother of Jesus? Join the Discover the Word group as they conclude their series about “The Women of Christmas”—the five women named in the genealogy of Jesus in Matthew 1. Explore Mary’s personal relationship with Jesus and discover how dangerous it can sometimes be to be in the center of God’s will!
About This Episode
- Show Notes
Receive
Five women appear in Jesus’ genealogy from Matthew 1:2-16. Each of these women show us about God’s redemption and grace. From Tamar to Rahab, and Ruth to Mary, even Bathsheba who wasn’t specifically named—we see how God uses broken people to accomplish His good purposes.
Reflect
- Read the verses connected with this episode below. As you reflect on the Scripture, what stands out to you?
- How does Tamar represent grace (from Genesis 38)?
- What important role did Rahab play in Jesus’ family tree (from Joshua 2:12-13)?
- Why was Ruth’s role meaningful in Jesus’ genealogy (from Deuteronomy 23:3)?
- What does Mary’s relationship with Jesus represent about our relationship with Him (from Luke 1:28, 30)?
Respond
(Use this prayer to start a conversation with God)
“Jesus, we praise You for the women who contributed to Your life on earth and for what we can learn from them. Help me better understand and embrace Your gift of grace. Help me see and celebrate Your redemption in my life. And help me experience Your favor. Amen.”
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