Matthew, one of Jesus’ twelve apostles, is a fascinating figure in the New Testament. Known as both a tax collector and an evangelist, his transformation from sinner to saint offers powerful lessons on grace and redemption.
In my journey through Scripture, I’ve found Matthew’s story deeply inspiring. His Gospel not only provides a detailed account of Jesus’ life but also emphasizes the importance of faith and commitment to God’s calling.
Who Was Matthew in the Bible?
Matthew, one of Jesus’ twelve apostles, holds a significant role in the New Testament. He transformed from a tax collector to a devoted follower.
Also Known as Levi
Matthew is also known as Levi. Luke and Mark refer to him as Levi, while his own Gospel calls him Matthew. Both names are consistent across different Gospels. This dual naming highlights his importance.
According to Mark 2:14 (NKJV), “He saw Levi the son of Alphaeus sitting at the tax office.” This verse identifies him clearly. It shows that he was already known by both names during Jesus’ time.
A Tax Collector and “Sinner”
Before following Jesus, Matthew worked as a tax collector in Capernaum. Tax collectors were unpopular due to their association with Rome and collecting excessive taxes.
In Matthew 9:9 (NKJV), it says, “As Jesus passed on from there, He saw a man named Matthew sitting at the tax office.” This verse marks his calling by Jesus.
Tax collectors were seen as sinners by society. They were often grouped with thieves and harlots. Even though this stigma, Jesus chose Matthew for His mission.
Jesus’ choice demonstrates grace and redemption for all people, regardless of past sins.
Calling and Ministry of Matthew
Called to Be a Disciple by Jesus
Matthew, also known as Levi, was one of Jesus’ twelve apostles. He worked as a tax collector in Capernaum. Tax collectors were despised by their fellow Jews because they worked for the Roman Empire and often demanded more money than owed.
Jesus called Matthew while he was sitting at his tax booth. The Bible records this event in three places: “As Jesus passed on from there, He saw a man named Matthew sitting at the tax office. And He said to him, ‘Follow Me.’ So he arose and followed Him” (Matthew 9:9 NKJV). This moment marked a big change in Matthew’s life. He left his job and security to follow Jesus.
This act showed great faith and obedience. By leaving everything behind, Matthew demonstrated his commitment to Christ’s call.
An Eyewitness to Jesus’ Ministry
Matthew witnessed many miracles performed by Jesus firsthand. These events strengthened his faith and provided material for his Gospel account.
Some key moments include:
- Feeding the 5,000 (Matthew 14:13-21)
- Walking on water (Matthew 14:22-33)
- Healing the blind (Matthew 20:29-34)
These experiences made him an important source of information about Jesus’ ministry. His Gospel provides detailed accounts of these events.
By sharing what he saw, Matthew contributed greatly to early Christian teachings. His writings help us understand the depth of Christ’s love and power today.
Matthew as an Author
Writer of the Gospel of Matthew
Matthew, one of Jesus’ twelve apostles, wrote the Gospel that bears his name. Early Church Fathers like Irenaeus and Clement of Alexandria support this tradition.
The Gospel provides a detailed account of Jesus’ life. It includes His teachings, miracles, death, and resurrection. This text is critical for understanding early Christian beliefs.
Key Features
- Teaching Focus: Contains the Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5-7).
- Detailed Narratives: Includes parables unique to his Gospel.
- Old Testament References: Cites prophecies fulfilled by Jesus.
Internal Evidence for Matthew’s Authorship
There are several clues that suggest Matthew authored this Gospel. His background as a tax collector offers insights.
- Financial Details: The Gospel mentions money frequently.
- Example: Paying temple tax (Matthew 17:24-27).
- Jewish Perspective: Emphasizes Jewish customs and laws.
- Eyewitness Accounts: Describes events with precision only an apostle could know.
Some scholars debate this attribution. Yet internal evidence aligns well with what we know about Matthew’s life and work.
“And He said to him, ‘Follow Me.’ So he arose and followed Him.” – *Matthew 9:9* (NKJV)
Key Events in Matthew’s Life
Jesus Calling Matthew
Matthew was a tax collector in Capernaum. Jesus saw him at his tax booth and said, “Follow Me” (Matthew 9:9, Mark 2:14, Luke 5:27).
- Matthew immediately left his job
- He demonstrated faith by leaving a lucrative career
- His call is recorded in three Gospels
People disliked tax collectors as they were seen as traitors (Luke 19:8). They often collected more than required. Even though this, Jesus chose Matthew.
The Last Supper and Resurrection
Matthew was present at the Last Supper with Jesus. This event is pivotal for Christians.
- Jesus shared bread and wine with His disciples (
Matthew 26:26-28) - He predicted Peter’s denial and Judas’s betrayal (
Matthew 26:34,John 13:21)
After the resurrection, Matthew witnessed Jesus alive again:
- He saw the empty tomb (
Matthew 28:1-7) - He met the risen Christ on a mountain in Galilee (
Matthew 28:16)
These events strengthened Matthew’s faith and commitment to spreading the Gospel.
Strengths and Struggles
Transforming from Sinner to Saint
Matthew’s journey from a tax collector to a devoted disciple shows his incredible transformation. Tax collectors were seen as traitors, collaborating with Rome and often exploiting their own people.
Yet, Jesus chose Matthew even though his past. When Jesus called him, he left everything behind (“So he left all, rose up, and followed Him.” – Luke 5:28 NKJV). This act of faith reveals his commitment.
Matthew’s Gospel reflects his deep understanding of grace. He emphasizes forgiveness and redemption through Jesus’ teachings. For example, in the Beatitudes (“Blessed are the merciful, for they shall obtain mercy.” – Matthew 5:7 NKJV), he highlights God’s mercy.
His firsthand experiences with Jesus shaped his writings. The miracles he witnessed added authenticity to his accounts. His dedication as an evangelist proved that anyone can change profoundly through Christ.
Rejected as an Outsider
Before following Jesus, Matthew faced rejection from society. Tax collectors were despised for their role in collecting excessive taxes for Rome.
Even though this ostracism, Matthew found acceptance in Jesus’ call. This shift is evident when Jesus dined with him (“Now it happened…Jesus sat at the table in the house…many tax collectors and sinners came and sat down with Him.” – Matthew 9:10 NKJV).
Matthew’s experience as an outcast gave him unique empathy for others shunned by society. His Gospel frequently mentions compassion for the marginalized (e.g., “I desire mercy and not sacrifice” – Matthew 9:13 NKJV).
His story encourages us to seek God’s acceptance rather than worldly approval. It reminds us that no one is beyond redemption if they turn to Christ.
Lessons from Matthew’s Character
Transformed by Grace and Forgiveness
Matthew’s transformation shows God’s grace and forgiveness. Before meeting Jesus, he was a tax collector for the Romans. This role made him hated by many Jews.
When Jesus called Matthew, he immediately left his job (Matthew 9:9). His quick response shows his faith in Jesus. Even though Matthew’s past, Jesus saw potential in him.
Jesus offered grace to Matthew even though his sinful reputation. This act of acceptance demonstrates that no one is beyond redemption. “For I did not come to call the righteous, but sinners, to repentance” (Matthew 9:13, NKJV).
Using Talents to Serve God’s Kingdom
After following Jesus, Matthew used his skills for God’s work. His attention to detail as a tax collector helped him write an accurate Gospel.
Matthew’s Gospel includes key teachings like the Sermon on the Mount and unique parables:
- Sermon on the Mount: Detailed teaching on Christian living.
- Parables: Unique stories such as the Parable of the Ten Virgins.
His background gave him insights into financial dealings in biblical times. For instance, he mentions paying temple taxes (Matthew 17:24-27).
By using his talents for God’s kingdom, Matthew showed that all skills can serve divine purposes.
Conclusion
Matthew’s journey from tax collector to apostle is a powerful testament to the transformative grace of Jesus. His experiences and unique perspective as an outcast enriched his Gospel, offering deep insights into Jesus’ teachings and miracles.
Matthew’s life reminds us that no one is beyond redemption and that every skill can be repurposed for God’s work. Through his faith and dedication, Matthew showed that profound change is possible with Christ, making his story a timeless inspiration for all believers.
What Can We Learn About God’s Sovereignty From Matthew’s Transformation?
Matthew’s transformation illustrates God’s sovereignty by showcasing His ability to redeem even the most unlikely individuals. Japhia’s divine intervention lessons highlight that no one is beyond God’s reach, emphasizing that His plans unfold through personal change and humility. This story encourages us to trust in divine purpose amidst life’s uncertainties.
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