Matthew, also known as Levi, is one of the twelve apostles of Jesus Christ and the traditionally attributed author of the Gospel of Matthew. His calling and transformation from a tax collector to a follower of Christ is a powerful testament to the grace and redemptive power of Jesus' ministry.

Background and Occupation

Matthew's occupation as a tax collector placed him in a despised class among the Jewish people. Tax collectors, or publicans, were often viewed as traitors and sinners because they worked for the Roman authorities and were notorious for extorting money from their fellow Jews. Despite this stigma, Matthew's life took a dramatic turn when he encountered Jesus.

Calling by Jesus

The account of Matthew's calling is recorded in the Synoptic Gospels. In the Gospel of Matthew, it is written: "As Jesus went on from there, He saw a man named Matthew sitting at the tax booth. 'Follow Me,' He told him, and Matthew got up and followed Him" (Matthew 9:9). This simple yet profound invitation from Jesus led Matthew to leave his lucrative and corrupt profession to become a disciple.

Feast at Matthew's House

Following his call, Matthew hosted a great feast at his house, inviting Jesus and many other tax collectors and sinners. This event is significant as it highlights Jesus' mission to reach out to those marginalized by society. The Pharisees questioned Jesus' choice of company, to which He responded, "It is not the healthy who need a doctor, but the sick. But go and learn what this means: 'I desire mercy, not sacrifice.' For I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners" (Matthew 9:12-13).

Role as an Apostle

As one of the twelve apostles, Matthew played a crucial role in the early Christian church. He witnessed Jesus' teachings, miracles, death, and resurrection. His firsthand experiences and insights into Jesus' life and ministry are believed to have informed the writing of the Gospel that bears his name.

The Gospel of Matthew

The Gospel of Matthew is the first book of the New Testament and is particularly noted for its emphasis on Jesus as the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies. It presents Jesus as the long-awaited Messiah and King, with a strong focus on His teachings, including the Sermon on the Mount. The Gospel also underscores the importance of the Kingdom of Heaven and the call to discipleship.

Legacy and Tradition

Tradition holds that after Jesus' ascension, Matthew continued to preach the Gospel, possibly traveling to regions such as Ethiopia and Persia. His martyrdom is suggested in various early Christian writings, though details vary. Matthew's transformation from a tax collector to a devoted apostle serves as a powerful example of the transformative power of Christ's call and the inclusivity of His message.

Symbolism and Iconography

In Christian art and iconography, Matthew is often depicted with a book or scroll, symbolizing his role as an evangelist. He is also sometimes shown with a winged man or angel, one of the four living creatures described in Revelation, which is associated with his Gospel.

Matthew's account is a profound reminder of the grace available to all, regardless of past sins or societal status, and the call to follow Christ with a willing heart.