Figuratively

Matthew 1:1 The book of the genealogy of Jesus Christ, the son of David, the son of Abraham.

Literally?

So Jesus is the son of David. But also the son of Abraham? The comma must mean that Abraham is his grandfather? I thought I’d heard he was the son of Joseph and Mary? But also that he’s the son of God?

One sentence into the New Testament and we’re already challenged to form some opinions about the text. Reference to the book within a collection of books that’s often referred to as a The Book. A compressed timescale fit for a sentence, expanded to 42 generations shortly after.

This sentence cannot be understood without the many sentences and paragraphs that travel with it. Not to mention who wrote it, when they wrote it, and why. But this required scrutiny is often discarded to elevate lone sentiments as a world view. Sometimes in earnest. Perhaps from laziness. Either motivation has consequences.

There’s no room for “I just believe what the Bible says”. At least not in isolation. The author’s completed work, context, intent, short-hand, genre, references, and emphasis all have a seat at the table. If not, this prooftext shows Jesus is the son of David and Abraham, which would be unsettling for the folks I hear saying things like “I just believe what the Bible says”.

Anyone who takes up the task of interpretation receives the baton that’s been handed off thousands of times. With their stretch of the journey comes new experiences, expectations, biases, and confirmations. The views are amazing, and the path is well worn. Which is another way of describing a rut. It is literally the hardest race to ever run.