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.”
Extended Explanation
This verse describes the calling of Matthew, a tax collector, to become one of Jesus’ disciples. Tax collectors were often despised in Jewish society because they worked for the Roman government and were known for overcharging people to enrich themselves. Matthew’s occupation made him an outcast, yet Jesus saw him, called him, and invited him to follow.
What’s striking is Matthew’s immediate response. Without hesitation, he left his booth, his job, and likely his financial security to follow Jesus. This decision reflects both the power of Jesus’ call and Matthew’s willingness to leave his old life behind for something far greater.
Historical Context
Tax collectors in first-century Israel were seen as traitors by their fellow Jews. They worked for the oppressive Roman Empire and often exploited their own people for personal gain. Their reputation for greed and dishonesty made them social and religious outcasts.
Jesus’ decision to call Matthew would have shocked those around Him, including His other disciples. Religious leaders would never have associated with someone like Matthew, let alone invited him into their inner circle. This act underscores Jesus’ mission to reach the lost and marginalized.
Matthew’s response also aligns with the radical demands of discipleship in that time. Following a rabbi meant leaving everything behind to learn from and live alongside him. For Matthew, this meant leaving a lucrative but corrupt profession to embrace a life of service and sacrifice.
Theological Implications
This verse highlights Jesus’ authority to call people into a transformed life. He doesn’t choose His followers based on their status, morality, or reputation. Instead, He calls people where they are and gives them a new identity and purpose.
Matthew’s story demonstrates the grace of God. No one is too far gone to be called by Jesus. The fact that Jesus chose a tax collector to be part of His closest group of disciples shows that His kingdom is for all, not just the religious elite or morally upright.
Literary Analysis
Matthew 9:9 is a pivotal moment in the Gospel narrative. It shifts the focus from Jesus’ public miracles to the personal transformation of His followers. The verse is straightforward but powerful, emphasizing both Jesus’ authority in His command—“Follow me”—and Matthew’s obedience—“Matthew got up and followed him.”
The phrase “sitting at the tax collector’s booth” paints a vivid picture of Matthew’s life before meeting Jesus. It contrasts sharply with his future role as a disciple and the author of this Gospel, highlighting the transformative power of Jesus’ call.
Biblical Cross-References
- Mark 2:14 – A parallel account of Matthew’s calling, identifying him as Levi, another name he likely used.
- Luke 5:27-28 – Luke’s version of Matthew’s calling, emphasizing his immediate decision to leave everything behind.
- Matthew 4:19-20 – Jesus calls Peter and Andrew with the same command, “Follow me,” showing the consistency of His approach.
- Romans 5:8 – “While we were still sinners, Christ died for us,” reflecting the grace seen in Matthew’s calling.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For Christians today, Matthew’s calling is a reminder that Jesus meets us where we are and invites us to follow Him, no matter our past. It’s a call to leave behind anything that hinders our relationship with Him and embrace a new life of purpose and service.
This verse also challenges believers to see others through Jesus’ eyes. Just as Jesus saw potential and value in Matthew, we are called to love and reach out to those society may overlook or condemn.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
God’s love is evident in Jesus’ choice of Matthew. Despite Matthew’s reputation and flaws, Jesus called him into a relationship and a new mission. This act reflects God’s heart for the outcast and the sinner. He doesn’t wait for us to clean ourselves up; He invites us to come as we are and be transformed by His love.
This verse also shows God’s desire to include everyone in His kingdom. By calling someone like Matthew, Jesus demonstrates that no one is beyond the reach of His grace and mercy.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
This verse reveals Jesus’ mission to seek and save the lost (Luke 19:10). By calling Matthew, Jesus not only transformed one man’s life but also set an example of how His kingdom operates—welcoming those who are often rejected by the world.
Matthew’s response to Jesus’ call is also a picture of discipleship. It shows that following Jesus requires leaving behind our old ways and trusting Him completely. This mirrors the ultimate call of every believer to take up their cross and follow Christ (Matthew 16:24).
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- How does Matthew’s immediate response to Jesus’ call inspire you in your own walk with Him?
- Are there areas in your life that you need to leave behind to follow Jesus more fully?
- How can this verse challenge you to see others through the lens of grace and potential, as Jesus did with Matthew?
- What does this passage teach you about the nature of discipleship and the cost of following Jesus?
- How can you respond to Jesus’ call to “Follow me” in your daily life?