“At that time Judah left his brothers and settled near an Adullamite named Hirah.” (Genesis 38:1)
This chapter seems to start off pretty innocently but quickly spirals into dark stories. There is an evil son (verse 7 & 10) who is killed by God. There are multiple disobediences to God and father (v 9), lies and deceit (v 14), adultery and fornication (v 18), bribery (v 20), a cover up (v 23), rash judgement and hypocrisy (v 24), and it ends with an almost comical ‘break out’ with Perez and Zerah. Was this all resulting from a single decision to leave and “hang out with the wrong crowd” which Judah seems to do at the start of the chapter? Did that lead him to marry outside his faith which led to a scandalous legacy? As dark as this seems, I believe there are three highlights that shine out of this passage.
First, the authenticity of Scripture. If I were “making up” a religion, I would take care to include only “good” stories, especially of leaders and key figures. The Bible doesn’t hide or cover anything up—it’s God’s word to us showing how He is merciful and gracious to rebellious and sinful people. The Scriptures shows its truth in its consistent and sometimes messy telling. Second, God is not ashamed of complicated histories. Throughout the Bible we see Him working through very flawed individuals. David had a friend murdered (2 Sam. 11:17), Saul persecuted Christians unto death (Acts 8), and even wise King Solomon (1 Kings 11) made some very unwise choices. Still, God used these men for powerful work and advanced His Kingdom. Third, God still works through sin, bad choices, and brokenness. In the same way God worked through David, Solomon, and Saul, despite history or legacy, from Perez (and so, Judah) comes Joseph, and then Jesus.
Do you relate to this chapter and these people? Are you thankful that your life isn’t as complicated? Wherever you come from, God can use you to accomplish His will. Look for ways to tell people about Him and look for ways to serve in His church. The ultimate example of this is how God used the darkest time in history, the crucifixion of His perfect Son Jesus, to bring salvation and hope to the world! Praise God that in the darkness His light is very clear for us to see.