Topical Encyclopedia Matthew, also known as Levi, is a significant figure in the New Testament, recognized as one of the twelve apostles of Jesus Christ. His calling to discipleship is a pivotal moment that underscores the transformative power of Jesus' ministry and the inclusivity of His message.Background and Profession Before his encounter with Jesus, Matthew was a tax collector, a profession often associated with corruption and collaboration with the Roman authorities. Tax collectors were generally despised by the Jewish populace for their role in enforcing Roman taxation and for their reputation of extorting more than what was required. Despite this, Matthew's position would have afforded him a certain level of wealth and social standing, albeit accompanied by disdain from his fellow Jews. The Call to Discipleship Matthew's call to follow Jesus is recorded in the Synoptic Gospels, with the account in the Gospel of Matthew providing a personal perspective. In Matthew 9:9 , 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." This simple yet profound invitation and Matthew's immediate response highlight the compelling authority of Jesus and the willingness of Matthew to leave behind his former life. Significance of the Call The calling of Matthew is significant for several reasons. Firstly, it demonstrates Jesus' mission to reach out to those marginalized by society, including sinners and outcasts. By choosing a tax collector as one of His closest followers, Jesus challenged societal norms and religious prejudices, emphasizing that the kingdom of God is open to all who are willing to repent and believe. Secondly, Matthew's response exemplifies the cost of discipleship. Leaving his lucrative position, Matthew embraced a life of uncertainty and service, prioritizing spiritual riches over material wealth. His decision reflects the transformative impact of encountering Christ and the radical change that true discipleship demands. Matthew's Role as an Apostle As an apostle, Matthew played a crucial role in the early Christian community. He is traditionally credited with authoring the Gospel of Matthew, which presents Jesus as the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies and emphasizes His teachings on the kingdom of heaven. This Gospel serves as a bridge between the Jewish and Gentile worlds, reflecting Matthew's unique perspective as a former tax collector who experienced firsthand the grace and redemption offered by Christ. Legacy and Influence Matthew's legacy extends beyond his Gospel. His account is a testament to the power of Jesus' call and the potential for transformation in every believer's life. As a disciple, Matthew's journey from a despised tax collector to a revered apostle illustrates the inclusive nature of the Gospel and the profound change that comes from following Jesus. In Christian tradition, Matthew is often depicted as a symbol of conversion and evangelism, inspiring believers to embrace their calling and share the message of Christ with others, regardless of their past. His life and work continue to influence Christian thought and practice, serving as a reminder of the boundless grace and mercy available through Jesus Christ. Nave's Topical Index Matthew 9:9,10And as Jesus passed forth from there, he saw a man, named Matthew, sitting at the receipt of custom: and he said to him, Follow me. And he arose, and followed him. Nave's Topical Index Matthew 10:3 Mark 2:14,15 Mark 3:18 Luke 5:27-29 Luke 6:15 Acts 1:13 Library Why the Great are Compared to Little Children. Characteristics of the Twelve Faustus Rejects Christ's Declaration that He came not to Destroy ... The Call of Matthew Development of the Ideas of Jesus Respecting the Kingdom of God. Christ and his Table-Companions "And when the Hour was Come, He ... The First Per??an Discourses - to the Pharisees Concerning the Two ... The Call of Matthew - the Saviour's Welcome to Sinners - Rabbinic ... The Disciples as Scribes. The Early Years of Jesus Resources Why are Jesus' genealogies in Matthew and Luke so different? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the Matthew Bible? | GotQuestions.org Why did Jesus rebuke the scribes and Pharisees so harshly in Matthew 23:13 36? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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