Likewise, the birth of Tamar's twins shows that the choice of those who have a role in the purpose of God are predestined and marked for that before they are born. Pharaz was the younger son, but the scarlet thread, tied on his hand before birth, showed he was destined for a role in the purpose of God - to build up the royal house of Judah as later declared by the people of Bethlehem in their blessing of Ruth. (Ruth 4:11-12).Ruth 4:11-12XWaiting for response This predestination is expressly stated of others, especially Jacob (Romans 9:11-13).Romans 9:11-13XWaiting for response
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So much of this chapter seems unsavoury, but is written for our learning (Romans 15:4).Romans 15:4XWaiting for response
The focus is on Tamar who is one of only four women to appear in the genealogy of our Lord Jesus (Matthew 1:3).Matthew 1:3XWaiting for response The record here clearly shows the hand of God determining who would be counted the legal progenitors of Jesus and, as two of these women played the harlot, it is perhaps illustrating the saying of Christ, that harlots go into the kingdom of God before the religious leaders with whom he had to deal. (Matthew 21:31-32).Matthew 21:31-32XWaiting for response The distinction between them is that the chief priests and elders were self-righteous, unbelieving and unrepentant; while the harlots believed his teaching, repented of their deeds, and would ultimately be forgiven of all their sins. The same judgement will be applied by Jesus when he returns and determines who will be counted to him for a generation! (Psalms 22:30).Psalms 22:30XWaiting for response