CONCLUSION

In the final session of 'Mothers of the Messiah,' Beth DeFazio discusses Matthew's inclusion of Tamar, Rahab, Ruth, and Bathsheba in Jesus' genealogy, emphasizing three reasons: giving women dignity, portraying Jesus as a universal healer, and highlighting inclusivity. Participants share belonging experiences, resonate with the reasons, reflect on Gentile inclusion, and conclude with a prayer for God's freedom and restoration.

Classroom

**Mothers of the Messiah**

*A NextLevel Series on the Women in Jesus’ Lineage*

Session 7: CONCLUSION. Three reasons why.

With Beth DeFazio

**STUDY…**

⮚ Matthew included these five women in order to give all women ________ and respect.

o + Jesus valued women in his ministry…

o - But why would Matthew not include other women…

⮚ Matthew included these five women in order to show that Jesus brings ____________.

o + “It is not the ________ who need a doctor, but the ________.” Matthew 9.12

o - But there are plenty of other stories in the genealogy to fulfill this purpose…

⮚ Matthew included Tamar, Rahab, Ruth, and Bathsheba in this genealogy so that all would

know… Jesus is for everyone. (__________ _______________)

o + In Genesis 22 God promised Abraham he would be the father of ____ _______.

o + Matthew begins his gospel with all nations in chapter one, and ends with all nations in chapter 28.

o + Jesus came as the __________ Messiah, but He died as the __________ Messiah.

o + In Ephesians 3 Paul affirms our adoption into Christ’s family.

+ And Matthew tells us in his genealogy, God intended us to be there all along.

**DISCUSS…**

1. Share a time when you weren’t sure you belonged (maybe in a group, on a team, at work, etc.) Did you find your place? If so, what did it take for you to feel at home?

2. Of the three possible reasons for Matthew including these “Mothers” in his genealogy, which resonates with you the most and why?

3. Discuss the implications of Gentile inclusion – of the Jewish Messiah being the Savior of us all. Have you thought about the weight of this gift in this way before? How are you thinking about it differently now?

4. Read Ephesians chapter three aloud together. Each person choose a word or phrase to reflect on this week. Share what you chose and why it stands out to you.

5. Close in prayer asking God to make His freedom, healing, and restoration known to you in profound and holy ways.



Session 7

Venue

Sections

Downloads

About

Classroom Instructions

Classroom Instructions