New Testament
Luke 3:26
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In this verse, Luke provides a genealogy that traces the lineage of Jesus Christ.
- Author
- Luke the physician
- Written
- Around AD 60-62
- Genre
- Gospel and history
- Original Audience
- Gentile Christians (addressed to Theophilus)
the son of Maath, the son of Mattathias, the son of Semei, the son of Joseph, the son of Juda,
Which was the son of Maath, which was the son of Mattathias, which was the son of Semei, which was the son of Joseph, which was the son of Juda,
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Luke provides a genealogy that traces the lineage of Jesus Christ. This specific part lists several ancestors, emphasizing the connection between Jesus and significant figures in Jewish history. The names mentioned, such as Maath and Mattathias, may not be widely recognized today, but they serve to establish Jesus' rightful place in the lineage of David and Abraham. Genealogies were important in Jewish culture as they affirmed one's heritage and legitimacy. By including these names, Luke highlights the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies regarding the Messiah's lineage. This verse, while seemingly a simple list of names, underscores the importance of Jesus' earthly heritage and the continuity of God's plan through generations. It reminds readers that Jesus is not just a spiritual figure but also a part of a historical and familial context, linking the New Testament to the Old Testament and God's promises to His people.
How to apply Luke 3:26 to your life
Understanding Jesus' genealogy helps us appreciate the significance of His identity and mission. It encourages us to reflect on our own heritage and how it shapes our faith. Recognizing our roots can deepen our connection to God's ongoing story in our lives.
Curated for this public verse page. Luke Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Luke 3:26 mean?
Luke 3:26 is part of a genealogy that traces the lineage of Jesus Christ, listing several ancestors to emphasize His connection to significant figures in Jewish history. This lineage highlights the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies regarding the Messiah's descent.
What is the significance of the names in Luke 3:26?
The names in Luke 3:26, such as Maath and Mattathias, serve to establish Jesus' rightful place in the lineage of David and Abraham, affirming His heritage and legitimacy as the Messiah.
How does Luke 3:26 connect to Old Testament prophecies?
Luke 3:26 connects to Old Testament prophecies by tracing Jesus' lineage back to key figures, demonstrating that He fulfills the prophecies concerning the Messiah's descent from David and Abraham.
What can we learn from Jesus' genealogy in Luke 3:26?
From Jesus' genealogy in Luke 3:26, we learn about the importance of heritage and how it shapes identity. It encourages reflection on our own roots and their impact on our faith and connection to God's story.

The Book of Luke
Luke 1: The Births of John the Baptist and Jesus Foretold
In the days of Herod, king of Judaea, a priest named Zacharias serves in the temple. He and his wife Elisabeth are both righteous but have no children because Elisabeth is barren, and they are both old. While Zacharias burns incense, the angel Gabriel appears to him and says Elisabeth will bear a son who is to be named John. The child will be great before the Lord, will drink no wine or strong drink, and will be filled with the Holy Ghost from his mother's womb. He will turn many of the children of Israel to the Lord their God. Zacharias asks how he can know this, since he and his wife are old. Gabriel says Zacharias will be unable to speak until these things come to pass because he did not believe.
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