How does Matthew 9:9 connect with Jesus' mission in Luke 19:10?

Matthew 9:9—A Tax Collector at the Toll Booth

“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.”

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Luke 19:10—Jesus States His Purpose

“For the Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost.”

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Connecting the Two Passages

• Matthew was a tax collector—socially despised, spiritually written off.

• By calling Matthew, Jesus demonstrates in real time what He declares in Luke 19:10.

• The invitation “Follow Me” shows Jesus actively seeking; Matthew’s response shows Jesus saving.

• The transformation of one tax collector previews the salvation offered to another—Zacchaeus (Luke 19:1-9)—and to all who are “lost.”

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What the Calling Reveals about Jesus’ Mission

• Initiative: Jesus approaches Matthew first (cf. John 15:16).

• Grace over merit: Matthew brings nothing but need (Ephesians 2:8-9).

• Immediate obedience illustrates saving faith (James 2:17).

• Public witness: Matthew’s later banquet (Luke 5:29-32) gathers other “sinners,” aligning with Jesus’ mission to seek more lost people.

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Broader Scriptural Echoes

• Isaiah 53:6—All have gone astray; the Shepherd searches.

• Ezekiel 34:11—“I Myself will search for My sheep and seek them out.”

• 1 Timothy 1:15—“Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners”—Paul, like Matthew, was reached in his lostness.

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Implications for Discipleship Today

• No one is beyond Christ’s reach; past sin or social stigma cannot disqualify.

• Following Jesus begins with His call and continues with surrendered obedience.

• Our story of being sought and saved becomes an invitation to others (2 Corinthians 5:18-20).