Advent Bible Study

December 1^st, 8^th, 15^th, and 22^nd

12 p.m.

The Gospel of Matthew begins with an unusual genealogy of Jesus. What makes this genealogy remarkable is that it includes five women. Biblical genealogies did not usually include women. One of the women is Mary, the mother of Jesus, so it is not too surprising that she is included. However, the other four are startling. These women are Tamar, Rahab, Ruth, and Bathsheba.

     During the four Wednesdays in December (the 1^st, 8^th, 15^th, and 22^nd), we will study the stories of each of these women as our Advent Bible Study. The story of Tamar is in Genesis 38. The story of Rahab is in Joshua 2 and 6:22-25. Ruth, of course, has her own book. We initially find Bathsheba in 2 Samuel 11-12:25, and she plays a significant role in the succession of Solomon after David’s death (1Kings 1). As we study the stories of these women, we want to ask the following questions. What are the common threads of each of these women? What is the importance of each one’s story? What is the message from their inclusion in the genealogy of Jesus?

     The study will be held at noon on Wednesdays in December in the sanctuary and will also be live-streamed. We will begin with the story of Tamar, so please read in advance and email me with any questions or observations you may have. I look forward to seeing you as we study these remarkable women.