“All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness†(2 Timothy 3:16).
The month we are studying about the controversial story of Tamar and her father-in-law, Judah. If you have taken the time to read Genesis 38, you may have wondered why that was even included in the Bible. J. Vernon McGee states this in one of his commentaries, “It gives us some background on the tribe of Judah, out of which the Lord Jesus Christ came. This fact makes it important that it be included in the biblical record.†There is also the fact that God’s people needed to come out from the influence of the immoral Canaanites.
God does not condone sin in any form and judged it harshly in the Old Testament. This was done to purify His people and preserve the nation His Son would come through. As we go through the Bible study and any related materials, may our sensitivity be to what God would have us to learn from this impelling story. Christ was born into a sinful line, becoming sin who knew no sin. It was the only way He could redeem us from our sin.
God wasn’t inspired to only share writings of good people and happy stories. He wanted us to know He loves everyone even if they have a checkered past. Tomorrow we will take a look at one of the two central characters of our Biblical drama.
Sue Winchester
Missouri
PRAY TOGETHER: Christmas Joy team members Jean McCraney, D’Andra Robinson and Chrystal Rowe desire prayer for their efforts today.
