Who Was Matthew in the Bible?
Apostle Living at the Time of the New Testament
Matthew, also known as Levi, was one of the twelve apostles chosen by Jesus during His earthly ministry. He is first mentioned in Matthew 9:9, where Jesus called him to follow Him. Matthew, the son of Alphaeus (Mark 2:14), was a tax collector, a profession considered controversial and despised by the Jewish community of that time. Despite his occupation, Jesus saw beyond his profession and called him to be a disciple, demonstrating the inclusive nature of God’s kingdom.
Biblical References
- Matthew 9:9: “As Jesus went on from there, he saw a man named Matthew sitting at the tax collector’s booth. ‘Follow me,’ he told him, and Matthew got up and followed him.” (NIV)
- Mark 2:14: “As he walked along, he saw Levi son of Alphaeus sitting at the tax collector’s booth. ‘Follow me,’ Jesus told him, and Levi got up and followed him.” (NIV)
- Luke 5:27-29: “After this, Jesus went out and saw a tax collector by the name of Levi sitting at his tax booth. ‘Follow me,’ Jesus said to him, and Levi got up, left everything and followed him. Then Levi held a great banquet for Jesus at his house, and a large crowd of tax collectors and others were eating with them.” (NIV)
Matthew’s Transformation and Ministry
As a tax collector, Matthew was likely viewed with disdain by his fellow Jews, who saw tax collectors as traitors collaborating with the Roman occupiers. Despite this, Jesus called Matthew to be one of His closest followers. This call was transformative, leading Matthew to leave his lucrative but morally questionable profession and follow Jesus wholeheartedly.
The Gospel of Matthew
Matthew is traditionally credited with writing the Gospel of Matthew, the first book of the New Testament. This Gospel emphasizes Jesus as the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies and the Jewish Messiah. Through his Gospel, Matthew sought to show how Jesus’ life, teachings, death, and resurrection fulfilled the Scriptures and brought salvation to all people.
Key Themes in the Gospel of Matthew
- Fulfillment of Prophecy: Matthew frequently cites Old Testament prophecies to show that Jesus is the promised Messiah.
- Kingdom of Heaven: Matthew uses this phrase extensively to describe the reign of God, highlighting the spiritual kingdom Jesus came to establish.
- Jesus as the New Moses: Matthew draws parallels between Jesus and Moses, emphasizing Jesus as the new lawgiver and leader of God’s people.
- Inclusivity of the Gospel: Despite its Jewish focus, Matthew’s Gospel also highlights the inclusion of Gentiles in God’s redemptive plan, as seen in the Great Commission (Matthew 28:19-20).
Biblical Reference: Matthew 28:19-20
“Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” (NIV)
Lessons for the Modern Christian
The Transformative Power of Jesus
Matthew’s story exemplifies the transformative power of encountering Jesus. Despite his despised occupation, Jesus called Matthew to a new life of discipleship and service. Modern Christians can learn that no past is too tainted for Jesus to redeem, and every individual has the potential to be used by God for His purposes.
Biblical Reference: 2 Corinthians 5:17
“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!” (NIV)
Obedience and Discipleship
Matthew’s immediate response to Jesus’ call demonstrates the importance of obedience and willingness to follow Christ. Modern believers are encouraged to respond to Jesus’ call with the same readiness and dedication.
Biblical Reference: Luke 9:23
“Then he said to them all: ‘Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow me.'” (NIV)
Inclusivity of God’s Kingdom
Matthew’s calling and his Gospel emphasize the inclusivity of God’s kingdom. Jesus welcomes all who come to Him, regardless of their past. This teaches Christians to embrace and share the Gospel with everyone, breaking down barriers of prejudice and exclusion.
Biblical Reference: Galatians 3:28
“There is neither Jew nor Gentile, neither slave nor free, nor is there male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus.” (NIV)
Connection to a Loving God
God’s Grace and Mercy
Matthew’s life showcases God’s grace and mercy. Despite Matthew’s background as a tax collector, a profession scorned by society, Jesus called him to be a close follower. This demonstrates God’s readiness to forgive and embrace those who turn to Him.
Biblical Reference: Ephesians 2:8-9
“For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works, so that no one can boast.” (NIV)
Assurance of God’s Purpose
Matthew’s inclusion among the apostles assures believers that God has a purpose for everyone, regardless of their past. God’s redemptive plan includes using each person’s unique experiences and backgrounds for His glory.
Biblical Reference: Romans 8:28
“And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.” (NIV)
Connection to Jesus Christ
Witness to Jesus’ Ministry
As one of the twelve apostles, Matthew witnessed Jesus’ ministry firsthand. His Gospel provides a detailed account of Jesus’ life, teachings, and miracles, offering a foundational understanding of Jesus’ role as the Messiah.
Proclaimer of the Good News
Matthew’s Gospel is a testament to the transformative power of Jesus Christ. It serves as a proclamation of the good news, inviting all people to believe in Jesus and receive salvation.
Biblical Reference: John 20:31
“But these are written that you may believe that Jesus is the Messiah, the Son of God, and that by believing you may have life in his name.” (NIV)
Conclusion
Matthew, also known as Levi, was a tax collector turned apostle who responded to Jesus’ call with immediate obedience. His life and Gospel emphasize the transformative power of Jesus, the importance of obedience and discipleship, and the inclusivity of God’s kingdom. Matthew’s story serves as a reminder of God’s grace and the assurance that He has a purpose for everyone. His Gospel highlights Jesus as the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies and the Savior of all people, encouraging believers to live faithfully and share the good news with others.
References:
– Matthew 9:9; 10:3; Mark 3:18; Luke 6:15; Acts 1:13
– Mark 2:14; Luke 5:27, 29