“Matthew, also known as Levi, was a tax collector who followed Jesus, illustrating that no one is beyond God’s call.” – Matthew’s calling
The Calling of Matthew
When we read about Matthew the apostle, we see a beautiful example of how God calls people from all walks of life. Jesus chose Matthew, a tax collector, to be part of his circle, showing us that no one is unworthy of His love and grace. Matthew’s story reminds us that, regardless of our past, we can embrace a new life in Him. His immediate response to Jesus’ call reflects our own duty to listen attentively and follow wherever He leads. In this way, we are also called to share our testimony and invite others into this journey of faith.
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.” – Matthew 9:9
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.” – Mark 2:14
Luke 5:27
“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,” – Luke 5:27
Matthew 10:3
“Philip and Bartholomew; Thomas and Matthew the tax collector; James son of Alphaeus, and Thaddeus.” – Matthew 10:3
John 21:2
“Simon Peter, Thomas (also known as Didymus), Nathanael from Cana in Galilee, the sons of Zebedee, and two other disciples were together.” – John 21:2
The Evangelistic Heart of Matthew
Matthew, after being called by Jesus, became an evangelist, eager to share the Good News. The Gospel that bears his name is specifically addressed to the Jewish people, illustrating their need for a Messiah. He shows how Jesus fulfills the prophecies of the Old Testament, offering hope and a new beginning. As we reflect on our own lives, we too should have a heart to share our faith with others. Each of us can play our part in spreading the message of Christ in the way that Matthew did.
Matthew 1:1
“This is the genealogy of Jesus the Messiah the son of David, the son of Abraham.” – Matthew 1:1
Matthew 4:24
“News about him spread all over Syria, and people brought to him all who were ill with various diseases, those suffering severe pain, the demon-possessed, those having seizures, and the paralyzed; and he healed them.” – Matthew 4:24
Matthew 5:14
“You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden.” – Matthew 5:14
Matthew 28:19
“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.” – Matthew 28:19
Matthew 9:35
“Jesus went through all the towns and villages, teaching in their synagogues, proclaiming the good news of the kingdom and healing every disease and sickness.” – Matthew 9:35
The Teachings of Jesus in Matthew’s Gospel
The Gospel of Matthew is rich in the teachings of Jesus. Through parables, we learn profound life lessons about faith, love, and the Kingdom of God. Matthew captures the essence of Jesus’ love for humanity and emphasizes the importance of living in accordance with God’s will. As we read through these teachings, we find inspiration to love others, live righteously, and seek God’s kingdom. We are encouraged to apply these principles in our daily lives, allowing the words of Jesus to shape our actions and decisions.
Matthew 5:3
“Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.” – Matthew 5:3
Matthew 6:33
“But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.” – Matthew 6:33
Matthew 7:12
“So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you, for this sums up the Law and the Prophets.” – Matthew 7:12
Matthew 11:28
“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” – Matthew 11:28
Matthew 22:37
“Jesus replied: ‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’” – Matthew 22:37
The Faithfulness of Matthew
Matthew remained faithful to Jesus throughout his ministry and after the resurrection. His commitment to the Gospel message serves as a powerful reminder of the necessity of sustaining faith in our lives. Just like Matthew, we should choose to trust and follow Jesus, even when faced with difficulties. His story teaches us that faithfulness to God can lead to impactful legacies in our communities. We have the opportunity to trust God in all circumstances, knowing that He works through us.
Matthew 16:16
“Simon Peter replied, ‘You are the Messiah, the Son of the living God.’” – Matthew 16:16
Matthew 24:13
“But the one who stands firm to the end will be saved.” – Matthew 24:13
Matthew 25:21
“His master replied, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things.’” – Matthew 25:21
Matthew 26:35
“But Peter declared, ‘Even if I have to die with you, I will never disown you.’ And all the other disciples said the same.” – Matthew 26:35
Matthew 28:20
“And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” – Matthew 28:20
Matthew as a Leader in the Early Church
After Jesus ascended to Heaven, Matthew played a significant role in establishing the early church. His leadership and understanding of Jesus’ teachings helped to spread the gospel and strengthen the faith of believers. We, too, are called to be leaders, whether in our families, churches, or communities. Matthew’s example encourages us to lead with love, humility, and dedication to serve others just as Christ demonstrated throughout His life.
Acts 1:13
“When they arrived, they went upstairs to the room where they were staying. Those present were Peter, John, James, and Andrew; Philip and Thomas, Bartholomew and Matthew; James son of Alphaeus and Simon the Zealot and Judas son of James.” – Acts 1:13
Acts 1:14
“They all joined together constantly in prayer, along with the women and Mary the mother of Jesus, and with his brothers.” – Acts 1:14
Acts 6:2
“So the Twelve gathered all the disciples together and said, ‘It would not be right for us to neglect the ministry of the word of God in order to wait on tables.’” – Acts 6:2
Acts 8:5
“Philip went down to a city in Samaria and proclaimed the Messiah there.” – Acts 8:5
Acts 11:19
“Now those who had been scattered by the persecution that broke out when Stephen was killed traveled as far as Phoenicia, Cyprus and Antioch, spreading the word only among Jews.” – Acts 11:19
The Enduring Legacy of Matthew
Matthew’s life serves as an example of transformation and dedication. His willingness to leave everything behind and follow Christ has left us with teachings that continue to inspire. We can take heart knowing that, like Matthew, our lives have the potential to impact others. Through our actions and commitment to Christ, we leave a legacy that can reach far beyond our years. Let us strive to live a life that reflects the love of Christ and adds to the legacy of faithful believers.
Matthew 6:20
“But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moths and vermin do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal.” – Matthew 6:20
Matthew 12:50
“For whoever does the will of my Father in heaven is my brother and sister and mother.” – Matthew 12:50
Matthew 19:29
“And everyone who has left houses or brothers or sisters or father or mother or wife or children or fields for my sake will receive a hundred times as much and will inherit eternal life.” – Matthew 19:29
Matthew 25:34
“Then the King will say to those on his right, ‘Come, you who are blessed by my Father; take your inheritance, the kingdom prepared for you since the creation of the world.” – Matthew 25:34
Matthew 28:9
“Suddenly Jesus met them. ‘Greetings,’ he said. They came to him, clasped his feet and worshiped him.” – Matthew 28:9
Final Thoughts
As we have explored the life of Matthew, the apostle, we see how God’s grace reaches every person. His story teaches us that everyone has a calling and that we can respond with faith and obedience. Matthew’s life exemplifies the importance of sharing our faith, remaining faithful through challenges, and embracing our roles as leaders in our communities. We are called to continue the legacy of spreading the Good News and impacting the lives of those around us.
Let us remember, just as Matthew did, to live a life filled with purpose, love, and service to others. By doing so, we reflect God’s love and bring hope to those who need it most. The encouragement Matthew gives us is profound: God can use anyone willing to follow Him. So, let us step out in faith, just like Matthew did.
For more insights and biblical teachings, feel free to explore topics like life lessons from scripture or delve into the significance of Galilee in Jesus’ ministry. We pray you find strength and encouragement in your own walk of faith.