If the Bible is God’s word, why does it contain internal contradictions (e.g., two different genealogies for Jesus in Matthew 1 and Luke 3)?

1. Understanding the Nature of Scriptural Inspiration

Scripture affirms its divine origin and consistency: “All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for instruction, for conviction, for correction, and for training in righteousness” (2 Timothy 3:16). Though human authors wrote in varied contexts, languages, and styles, the belief is that the divine influence unifies their writings. Apparent “contradictions” often arise when considering cultural nuances, literary styles, or differences in intended audience. When properly understood, these differences can complement one another.

2. Contextual Considerations in Biblical Genealogies

Genealogies in Scripture serve different purposes. They may emphasize legal rights, tribal affiliations, or fulfill prophecies. The two genealogies of Jesus—one in Matthew (Matthew 1:1–17) and one in Luke (Luke 3:23–38)—are examples where context matters:

• Matthew’s Perspective (Matthew 1:1–17): Matthew sets forth a genealogy that underscores Jesus’s legal right to the throne of David and connection to Abraham. This genealogy highlights Jesus as the promised Messiah from David’s royal lineage. Matthew’s audience, largely Jewish, would see the fulfillment of Old Testament messianic prophecies (cf. Isaiah 11:1–2) through a legally recognized line.

• Luke’s Perspective (Luke 3:23–38): Luke traces Christ’s ancestry back to Adam, highlighting Jesus’s humanity. Some scholars note that Luke’s account may reflect Mary’s genealogy (though Joseph is named, it was ancient practice to list the father or the male figure even if that line was actually from the mother’s lineage). Luke’s method emphasizes the universality of salvation and Jesus’s connection with all humankind.

3. Accounting for Differing Names and Generations

Both Matthew and Luke’s genealogies face questions about the number of generations and particular names:

1. Legal vs. Biological Line: It was customary to adopt or register a son-in-law as an official heir in place of a deceased or childless father. In such cases, a name listed for Joseph in one genealogy could have been his legal father, while another name could be his biological father. This explains why “Heli” (Luke 3:23) can appear instead of “Jacob” (Matthew 1:16).

2. Selective Genealogical Lists: Jewish genealogies sometimes omit less significant ancestors or group generations. For instance, Matthew records sets of fourteen generations (Matthew 1:17). This was a literary choice highlighting Davidic lineage in a memorably structured format, rather than an exhaustive list of every single forefather.

3. Title vs. Relationship Terminology: Terms such as “son,” “father,” and “begot” can signify broader family or tribal relationships in Semitic culture. These terms do not always indicate direct parent-child connections in the modern, strict sense.

4. Cultural and Historical Evidence

Historical records show genealogical lists in ancient Israel often served official or tribal functions. They might emphasize legal rights (land ownership, priestly lineage) more than a strict father-to-son sequence. Extra-biblical texts, such as certain sections of the writings of Flavius Josephus, demonstrate similar genealogical patterns. This cultural background helps explain how Matthew and Luke could record distinct but valid genealogical data without truly contradicting each other.

5. Scriptural Harmony Beyond Genealogies

Alleged contradictions within Scripture (including genealogical differences) must be weighed against the overarching harmony found in biblical teachings. Even with diverse authorship across centuries, the canonical books present a united narrative of humanity’s need for salvation, the anticipation and coming of the Messiah, and the ultimate plan of redemption.

• Examples of Textual Unity:

– The Dead Sea Scrolls (discovered mid-20th century) demonstrate the stable transmission of large portions of the Old Testament across centuries, strengthening confidence in the reliability of the text.

– Early New Testament manuscript fragments such as P52 (the John Rylands Papyrus) attest to the accurate preservation of the text close to the events themselves.

6. Resolving “Contradictions” Through Literary and Theological Lenses

Biblical passages that appear contradictory often reflect differences in authorial intent (such as highlighting distinct theological themes), audience emphasis, or sociocultural expression. Engaging with original languages (Hebrew, Aramaic, Greek) clarifies idioms or naming conventions lost in translation. Interpreting Scripture with an awareness of its overarching narrative consistently resolves most concerns.

7. Relevance for Faith and Historical Reliability

The genealogies, far from undermining faith in Scripture, underline the depth of the authors’ concerns to present Jesus meaningfully to their audiences. Matthew anchors Him in Jewish Messianic hopes. Luke displays Him as the Savior for all humanity. Their distinct vantage points enrich the portrait of Christ rather than contradict it.

• Archaeological Corroboration: Discoveries from the Ancient Near East routinely affirm biblical references to locations, customs, and historical figures. These findings lend weight to the reliability of the biblical authors, strengthening the case for trust in written Scripture.

• Manuscript Consistency: Collations of thousands of manuscript copies show remarkable consistency overall in the New Testament text, indicating careful transmission. Minor variations do not alter central doctrines, and genealogical details remain intact through generations of copying.

8. Conclusion

The presence of two genealogical accounts for Jesus in Matthew 1 and Luke 3 does not imply a contradiction within Scripture. With an understanding of ancient genealogical practices, legal lineages, cultural customs, and each Gospel’s distinct theological emphasis, these accounts coalesce cohesively. Rather than weakening its trustworthiness, these features of Scripture reveal the intricate tapestry of divine revelation across different authors and eras.

To engage with Scripture—genealogies included—through contextual, historical, and theological study highlights a consistent message of redemption and hope. “Above all, you must understand that no prophecy of Scripture comes from one’s own interpretation. For no such prophecy was ever brought about through human initiative, but men spoke from God as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit” (2 Peter 1:20–21).