As an expert in biblical studies, I can provide an analysis of the question regarding Rahab and her place in the lineage of Jesus Christ. Rahab is a well-known figure in the Old Testament, particularly in the Book of Joshua, where she is depicted as a woman who lived in Jericho and sheltered the Israelite spies. She is indeed referred to as "the harlot" in the passages that mention her, which is a significant aspect of her story but not the only one that defines her character.

In the Book of Joshua, Rahab's story is one of faith and redemption. Despite her occupation, which was considered disreputable in that time and culture, she showed great courage and faith by protecting the Israelite spies and helping them escape from Jericho. Her actions were recognized by the Israelites, and she was spared along with her family when the city of Jericho was conquered.

The New Testament, specifically the Gospel of Matthew, provides a genealogy of Jesus Christ that includes Rahab. Matthew 1:5 states, "Boaz fathered Obed, whose mother was Ruth. Obed fathered Jesse, the father of David the king." The verse preceding this, Matthew 1:4-5, reads: "Boaz was the father of Obed by Ruth, and Obed the father of Jesse. David was the father of Solomon by the wife of Uriah," which implies that Boaz was the son of Salmon and Rahab. This genealogy is significant as it shows that Jesus' lineage includes individuals from diverse backgrounds and with various life stories, emphasizing the inclusive nature of God's plan for salvation.

The inclusion of Rahab in Jesus' lineage is not just a historical record but also serves a theological purpose. It demonstrates that God's grace and redemption are available to all people, regardless of their past. Rahab, despite her profession, was included in the line of the Messiah, showing that God's kingdom is not limited by human standards of worthiness.

Furthermore, Rahab's story is often cited as an example of the faith of Gentiles, as she was not an Israelite but a Canaanite. Her inclusion in Jesus' genealogy underscores the universality of God's grace and the breaking down of barriers between Jews and Gentiles in the plan of salvation.

In conclusion, Rahab is indeed in the line of Jesus according to the Gospel of Matthew. Her story is a testament to God's grace, redemption, and the universality of His plan for salvation. Rahab's inclusion in Jesus' lineage serves as a reminder that God's kingdom is open to all who have faith, regardless of their background or past actions.

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Rahab is referred to as "the harlot" in each of these passages. A different spelling of the name, Rachab (as transcribed in King James Translation of Greek ?----?--) is mentioned in the Gospel of Matthew as one of the ancestors of Jesus (Matthew 1:5). She married Salmon of the tribe of Judah and was the mother of Boaz.read more >>