The First Mention of Jesus in the Bible

One of the most common questions surrounding the Bible is the first mention of Jesus. Many believe that Jesus is mentioned earlier in the Old Testament, but the truth is that His first appearance is in the New Testament, specifically in the Gospel of Matthew. In this article, we will explore where and why Jesus is first mentioned in the Bible.

Where is Jesus first mentioned?

The very first direct mention of Jesus in the Bible is found in Matthew 1:1. The text reads, 'The book of the genealogy of Jesus Christ, the son of David, the son of Abraham.'

Matt 1:1 - The book of the history of Jesus Christ, son of David, son of Abraham

While some might insist that Jesus is mentioned earlier in the Old Testament, particularly in the book of Genesis, this is a misunderstanding. The passages cited such as Genesis 1:26-27 are not direct mentions of Jesus; rather, they describe the creation of man in the image of God. Jesus is not human; He is the Word of God made flesh (John 1:14).

Matthew 1:16 and the Genealogy

Matthew 1:16 specifically mentions the genealogy of Jesus, leading up to His birth to Mary. The passage states, 'Matt 1:16 - Jacob became the father of Joseph, the husband of Mary, of whom was born Jesus, who is called Christ.'

Matt 1:16 - Jacob became the father of Joseph, the husband of Mary, of whom was born Jesus, who is called Christ

This passage clearly establishes the lineage of Jesus, revealing that He was born to Mary and that Joseph was His adoptive father, as Jesus was not actually Joseph's biological son.

Concubine Melchizedek and the Judges

Throughout various interpretations and theories, some propose that Jesus is mentioned in the Old Testament as a concubine in the Book of Judges. This narrative posits that the concubine was Jesus in His pre-incarnate form. The theory is rooted in placing Jesus in a high priestly role, as Melchizedek, the priest-king of Salem (later known as Jerusalem).

According to the text, the Benjamites had committed a terrible sin, and the tribes of Israel retaliated. This act of vengeance involved all the warriors, particularly those from the tribe of Judah, thus fulfilling a prophecy in Isaiah 53 from both a male and female perspective.

Isaiah 53 - Had to be fulfilled from both a male and female perspective

This interpretation adds a mystical and supernatural dimension to Jesus' role, suggesting a deeper connection and understanding of His suffering and humanity. However, it remains a speculative theory and not a widely accepted historical or biblical analysis.

Conclusion

While the concept of Jesus in the Old Testament is intriguing to some scholars and theologians, the first direct mention of Jesus in the Bible is found in the Gospel of Matthew, specifically in Matthew 1:1 and 1:16. The narrative of His genealogy serves to affirm His divinity and His literal birth as the Son of God, born to a young woman named Mary.

Understanding the historical context and the theological implications of Jesus' first appearance in the Bible can enrich our understanding of the story of salvation and His role in the Christian faith.