Neri is a biblical figure mentioned in the genealogy of Jesus Christ as recorded in the Gospel of Luke. His significance lies primarily in his role as an ancestor of Jesus, linking the royal lineage of David to the Messiah. Neri is found in the genealogy presented in Luke 3:23-38, which traces Jesus' lineage through His mother, Mary, and is distinct from the genealogy in the Gospel of Matthew, which traces through Joseph, His legal father.

Biblical Reference:
In the Gospel of Luke, Neri is mentioned as the father of Shealtiel. Luke 3:27 states: "the son of Joanan, the son of Rhesa, the son of Zerubbabel, the son of Shealtiel, the son of Neri," . This passage places Neri in the line of descent leading to Jesus, emphasizing the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies concerning the Messiah's Davidic lineage.

Genealogical Context:
Neri's position in the genealogy is significant because it connects the post-exilic community of Israel to the Davidic promise. The genealogy in Luke is often understood to trace the biological lineage of Jesus through Mary, highlighting the human ancestry of Christ and His rightful claim to the throne of David. This lineage underscores the fulfillment of the covenantal promises made to David, as seen in 2 Samuel 7:12-16, where God promises David that his throne will be established forever.

Historical and Theological Significance:
Neri's inclusion in the genealogy underscores the continuity of God's redemptive plan throughout history. Despite the apparent obscurity of some figures in the genealogy, each plays a crucial role in the unfolding of God's promise to bring forth a Savior. Neri's mention serves as a reminder of God's faithfulness in preserving the line through which the Messiah would come, even during periods of exile and restoration.

Theologically, the genealogy in Luke highlights the universal scope of Jesus' mission. By tracing Jesus' lineage through Mary, the Gospel of Luke emphasizes Jesus' identification with all humanity, not just the Jewish people. This inclusive aspect of the genealogy aligns with Luke's broader theme of salvation being available to all nations, as seen in passages like Luke 2:30-32, where Simeon declares Jesus as "a light for revelation to the Gentiles, and for glory to Your people Israel" .

Conclusion:
While Neri may not be a prominent figure in biblical narratives, his role as an ancestor of Jesus is integral to the fulfillment of God's promises. His mention in the genealogy of Luke serves as a testament to the divine orchestration of history, ensuring the arrival of the Messiah through the line of David.Luke 3:27
Which was the son of Joanna, which was the son of Rhesa, which was the son of Zorobabel, which was the son of Salathiel, which was the son of Neri,
Nave's Topical Index

3518. Neri -- Neri, an Israelite
... Part of Speech: Proper Noun, Indeclinable Transliteration: Neri Phonetic Spelling:
(nay-ree') Short Definition: Neri Definition: Neri, an ancestor of Jesus. ...
//strongsnumbers.com/greek2/3518.htm - 6kWhy are Jesus' genealogies in Matthew and Luke so different? | GotQuestions.org

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