Have you ever felt like your past mistakes or family history are too messy for redemption? The story of Judah and Tamar in Genesis 38 shows that even the most complicated situations can be part of a greater plan.
Judah’s Story
Judah, one of Jacob’s sons, made several poor choices. He failed to uphold his responsibilities, especially towards his daughter-in-law, Tamar. After the deaths of his two sons, Er and Onan, Judah promised Tamar that his youngest son, Shelah, would marry her. However, he didn’t follow through, leaving Tamar in a vulnerable position.
Tamar’s Bold Move
Determined to secure her place in the family and fulfill her rights, Tamar took matters into her own hands. She disguised herself and became pregnant by Judah, resulting in the birth of twins, Perez and Zerah. This act, while unconventional, ensured the continuation of a lineage that would lead to King David and, eventually, Jesus Christ.
A Message of Redemption
This narrative highlights that God’s plans often work through imperfect people and situations. It serves as a reminder that no matter our past, redemption is possible.
Modern-Day Parallel
Dr. Gerry Breshears discusses this story and connects it to contemporary issues, such as the courage of Rachel Denhollander in exposing abuse within USA Gymnastics. His insights emphasize that truth and justice can emerge from even the darkest circumstances
The surprise of Gerry’s talk is that he takes us from the story of Judah and Tamar and brings it full circle to today. From the ugliness of Judah to Rachel Denhollander and her new book What Is a Girl Worth?: My Story of Breaking the Silence and Exposing the Truth about Larry Nassar and USA Gymnastics.
From a story in the Bible to a story today of truth and grit. His whole talk is worth a listen and is available to listen to on Soundcloud.
About Dr. Gerry Breshears
Dr. Gerry Breshears is a Professor of Theology at Western Seminary in Portland, Oregon. Dr. Breshears is passionate about the transforming power of the gospel, as it “brings freedom from guilt, shame, fear, and defilement before God.” He has taught at numerous Bible colleges and seminaries around the world, in countries such as Lebanon, Ukraine, Netherlands, Taiwan, Poland, Canada, and the Philippines. Dr. Breshears serves as a preaching elder at Grace Community Church. He and his wife, Sherry, have been married since 1968 and have two sons, one daughter, and are enjoying their season of life as grandparents.
About Judah
Judah was a pivotal figure in the Hebrew scriptures, born to Jacob and Leah around 1600 BCE during the second millennium. An instrumental character in the early formation of Israelite tribes, Judah married Shua’s daughter, an unnamed Canaanite woman. They had three sons together – Er, Onan, and Shelah. Later, under complex circumstances, Judah fathered twin boys, Perez and Zerah, with his daughter-in-law Tamar.
Despite the moral complexities of his early life, including his role in selling his brother Joseph into slavery, Judah eventually emerged as the progenitor of the royal lineage leading to King David and, ultimately, Jesus Christ. His story, which spans approximately 119 years according to biblical accounts, underscores the transformative power of repentance and redemption.
Judah’s enduring legacy is evident in the tribe named after him, one of the most significant of the twelve tribes of Israel. Today, his life continues to be a subject of theological exploration and discussion.
About Tamar
Tamar was a significant figure in the Hebrew scriptures during the second millennium BCE. Initially married to Judah’s sons Er and Onan, both of whom died leaving her childless, Tamar secured her future through a strategic plan that led to her bearing twin sons, Perez and Zerah, with Judah himself. Her actions had a profound impact on biblical lineage, leading to the birth of King David and eventually, Jesus Christ. Her life represents resilience and resourcefulness, significant themes in biblical studies.