The Ballad of Matthew's Begats
Andrew Peterson Puts His Song into a Children's Book
The Ballad of Matthew's Begats is a song by Andrew Peterson and now it is a children's book. With beautiful illustrations by Cory Godbey, kids can learn more about Jesus.
Andrew Peterson has already cemented his reputation as being a lyrical wordsmith. With his songs he leads us along with tales of family, friends, and people of God. It’s no surprise that one of Peterson’s songs was put into book form. The Ballad of Matthew’s Begats uses Peterson’s lyrics combined with Cory Godbey’s illustrations to show children that every part of the bible is important, even the part most adults skip over.
Behold the Lamb of God
The Ballad of Matthew’s Begats is from Peterson’s CD, Behold the Lamb of God: The True Tall Tale of the Coming of Christ. The CD is a concept album that tells the story of God’s plan to bring a savior to the world.
The Ballad of Matthew’s Begats is Peterson’s take on Matthew 1:1-16. This “unlikely family tree” lists the generations from Abraham to Joseph, who was, to quote the song and the book, “The husband of Mary, the mother of Christ.”
Familiar Bible Characters
Though there are some hard to pronounce names in Jesus’ genealogy, there are some Bible characters that kids will know. Father Abraham, remember him? He had many sons and many sons had father Abraham. He starts out the book, logically followed by Isaac, Jacob, and then Judah.
King David is one of the best known people in the Old Testament and he, of course, makes his appearance here. David’s son, Solomon, is another name that should pop out at kids as they read through the book. Some other names that kids might recognize through other Bible stories are Rahab, Boaz, and Ruth.
Sprinkled throughout the book are facts about some of the well-loved Biblical figures and some not so well known. There are also some facts at the end, making this a well rounded book for kids.
Cory Godbey Brings Matthew’s Begats Alive
There is no doubt that Peterson did an excellent job putting this oft overlooked piece of scripture to song. Making these odd names flow lyrically was no easy feat. But without the proper illustration, kids might not be able to fully appreciate Jesus’ family history.
Cory Godbey picks up where Peterson leaves off. He has the ability to make the characters endearing and fun. Godbey makes it look like the reader is thumbing through a family photo album. He adds some humor, Manasseh swatting butterflies, and subtle details, Rahab dangling a red string in front of Boaz. Kids are sure to fall in love with the pictures as their parents admire the beauty and detail.
The Ballad of Matthew’s Begats Bonus
This book is a result of the song, so it makes sense that the song is included on a CD. The kids can sing along with Peterson, going through the family tree of Jesus. “The Ballad of Matthew’s Begat’s” is a catchy, fun song that will be well-loved by both kids and adults.
There are still some that would question the importance of this small bit of scripture. Is it really necessary to go through this boring list of begats? Peterson answers this best when he says, “I hope that while you’re listening to this song and looking at Cory Godbey’s wonderful pictures, you’ll remember that all those stories you’ve been learning at church are true stories. And because of Jesus you and I are a part of that story too.”
