Topical Encyclopedia The Calling of Levi, also known as the Calling of Matthew, is a significant event in the New Testament, recorded in the Synoptic Gospels: Matthew 9:9-13, Mark 2:13-17, and Luke 5:27-32. This event marks the moment when Jesus Christ calls Levi, a tax collector, to become one of His disciples, illustrating the transformative power of Jesus' ministry and His mission to reach sinners.Biblical Account In the Gospel of Matthew, the account is succinctly described: "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). The Gospel of Mark provides a similar narrative, identifying Levi as the son of Alphaeus: "As He was walking along, He saw Levi son of Alphaeus sitting at the tax booth. 'Follow Me,' He told him, and Levi got up and followed Him" (Mark 2:14). Luke's account also emphasizes Levi's immediate response: "After this, Jesus went out and saw a tax collector named Levi sitting at the tax booth. 'Follow Me,' He told him, and Levi got up, left everything, and followed Him" (Luke 5:27-28). Context and Significance Levi, also known as Matthew, was a tax collector, a profession often despised by the Jewish people due to its association with Roman oppression and corruption. Tax collectors were considered sinners and outcasts, often grouped with "sinners" in the Gospels. Jesus' call to Levi is significant because it demonstrates His willingness to reach out to those marginalized by society and to offer them a place in His kingdom. The calling of Levi is a powerful example of Jesus' mission to seek and save the lost (Luke 19:10). By choosing a tax collector as one of His disciples, Jesus challenges societal norms and religious expectations, emphasizing that His message of salvation is available to all, regardless of their past or social standing. Levi's Response and the Banquet Levi's immediate response to Jesus' call is noteworthy. He leaves his lucrative position and follows Jesus without hesitation, signifying a radical transformation and commitment to a new life. Following his call, Levi hosts a great banquet at his house, inviting Jesus and many other tax collectors and sinners. This event is recorded in all three Synoptic Gospels and highlights the inclusive nature of Jesus' ministry. The presence of Jesus at Levi's banquet draws criticism from the Pharisees and scribes, who question why Jesus associates with tax collectors and sinners. Jesus responds with a profound statement about His mission: "It is not the healthy who need a doctor, but the sick. I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners, to repentance" (Luke 5:31-32). This response underscores the purpose of Jesus' ministry—to bring healing and redemption to those who recognize their need for a Savior. Theological Implications The Calling of Levi holds deep theological implications. It illustrates the grace and mercy of Jesus, who calls individuals not based on their merit but on His sovereign choice. Levi's transformation from a tax collector to a disciple and Gospel writer (as traditionally attributed to Matthew) exemplifies the power of Jesus to change lives and use them for His purposes. Furthermore, this event challenges believers to reflect on their own attitudes toward those considered "outsiders" or "sinners" and to embrace the inclusive love of Christ. It serves as a reminder that the Gospel is for all people and that Jesus' call to follow Him extends beyond societal boundaries and prejudices. Conclusion The Calling of Levi is a pivotal moment in the New Testament, showcasing Jesus' radical approach to ministry and His heart for the lost. Levi's response and subsequent transformation highlight the life-changing impact of Jesus' call and the inclusive nature of His kingdom. |