Genealogy has become increasingly popular in recent decades. Today, websites and companies allow you to trace your family lineage—for a fee, of course. I remember as a child when someone gave my dad a book of our ancestors, and I discovered that our last name, Alcorn, was originally Alcom.

Yet despite this modern interest in ancestry, most people have little appreciation for the genealogies found in Scripture. Years ago, a coworker—knowing I was a Bible college student—asked me, “I like the Bible, but why are there so many genealogies in it?” He even said he wished they had been left out.

The truth is, he was probably just more honest than most of us.

When you come across a genealogy in the Bible, do you read it? Or do you read notes in your study Bible that can help you understand the importance of that particular genealogy? Even Christians with a high view of Scripture often admit they don’t pay much attention to these passages.

But we cannot escape this reality: if God inspired the Bible, and genealogies appear throughout it, then they are there for a reason.

In a recent sermon on Exodus 6:14–27—the genealogy of Moses and Aaron (mostly Aaron)—I highlighted three reasons why genealogies exist in Scripture.

1. Genealogies Serve a Specific Purpose

Each genealogy has a particular purpose within its context.

In Exodus 6, the genealogy primarily highlights Aaron. While Moses’s calling to the prophetic office is clearly established in Exodus 3–4, Aaron appears at first to be a secondary figure—brought in because of Moses’ hesitation. This genealogy shows that Aaron is not an afterthought. By tracing his lineage, Scripture demonstrates that he is a worthy partner in God’s mission.

Similarly, the genealogies of Jesus in Matthew 1 and Luke 3 establish His legitimacy as the King of the Jews.

It’s also important to note that biblical genealogies are often selective. Authors intentionally include or exclude names to highlight certain truths. This selectivity does not undermine Scripture’s inerrancy—it reinforces the author’s purpose.

2. Genealogies Are Rooted in Real History

Though selective, genealogies are not fictional—they are historical.

In Exodus 6, the author traces Aaron back to Levi and forward to Phinehas. By the time Exodus was written, Phinehas likely had descendants of his own, yet the genealogy stops there. Why? Because the goal is not to provide an exhaustive record, but to make a theological point: Aaron is the right man for the moment.

Levi lived a pretty uneventful life spiritually. Yet, God separated his lineage and made them the priests of the Old Covenant. It is from the line of Levi that the “pastors” of Israel sprung.

And Phinehas? He becomes a key figure in Numbers 25, where he zealously defends the honor of God by executing judgment against blatant sin in Israel’s camp. In response, God makes a covenant of peace with him.

So when readers saw that Aaron was the grandson of Levi and the grandfather of Phinehas, they would recognize his credibility and significance in Israel’s story.

Ultimately, all genealogies point forward—to the genealogy of Jesus Christ, the true King.

3. Genealogies Reveal Redemption (and Judgment)

Genealogies are not just lists of names—they tell a story of redemption and judgment.

Certain names would have immediately stirred emotion in the original readers. The name Korah, for example, would recall rebellion and divine judgment. Others, like Gershom, Kohath, and Merari, would remind readers of faithful service in the tabernacle.

These names carry meaning. They reflect lives lived in obedience or rebellion, faithfulness or sin. And together, they point us to the greater story—one that culminates in Jesus Christ.

Genealogies also remind us that God keeps perfect records. Scripture speaks of the Lamb’s Book of Life—a record of those who belong to Him. One day, that book will be opened.

Those who trust in Christ will enter eternal life. Those who do not will face judgment.

As Ephesians 1:7 says:

“In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of our trespasses, according to the riches of his grace.”

A Final Word

Don’t rush past the genealogies. Don’t wish they weren’t there.

Instead, read them patiently. They reveal God’s purposes, His faithfulness through generations, and His redemptive plan that leads to Christ.

Let them deepen your understanding of Scripture—and strengthen your faith.

Soli Deo Gloria