(5–8 minutes, easy set-up)
Learners will explore the importance of Jesus’ Davidic ancestry.
Ask: How often do you introduce someone in terms of his/her family relationships? Point out that we often give background or a greater understanding of how the person we are introducing fits into communities and relationships that we already know.
Call on two volunteers to read Luke 1:26-27 and Luke 1:32. Lead learners to consider these verses together. Ask: How does verse 32 inform our understanding of why Luke introduced Joseph in relation to David in verse 27? Point out that, through Joseph, Jesus would reign on the throne of David.
Read 2 Samuel 7:16-17. Explain that when God chose David as King of Israel, He promised to establish the throne of David forever. Ask: Considering this promise, why was Luke’s notation of Joseph’s family lineage important to his readers and to us? (Through Joseph, Jesus was fulfilling God’s word throughout the Old Testament that David’s throne would reign forever.)
Say: Jesus did not come as a bold king to take over a political position but as the true king over all people, and God fulfilled His promises in every way.