Matthew, one of the twelve apostles of Jesus Christ, is a figure of significant interest within the New Testament, particularly as the attributed author of the Gospel of Matthew. Understanding Matthew's life and character is crucial in appreciating the context and nuances of the Gospel that bears his name. The insights we gather about Matthew come from the New Testament itself, early Christian writings, and historical context.
Matthew, also known as Levi, was a tax collector before he became a follower of Jesus. This detail about his profession is crucial, as it provides insight into both his character and the transformative power of Jesus' call. Tax collectors in first-century Judea were often despised by their fellow Jews. They were seen as collaborators with the Roman occupiers and were notorious for their corruption and extortion. The Gospel of Matthew itself refers to tax collectors in a negative light, equating them with sinners (Matthew 18:17). Therefore, Matthew's occupation suggests that he was initially viewed as an outsider and a sinner by his community.
The calling of Matthew is a pivotal moment that reveals much about his character and the nature of Jesus' ministry. In Matthew 9:9-13, we read about Jesus calling Matthew while he was sitting at the tax booth. The immediate response of Matthew to follow Jesus without hesitation is telling of his openness and readiness for change. This act of leaving everything behind to follow Jesus indicates a deep yearning for a life of meaning and redemption. It speaks to Matthew's humility and willingness to embrace a new identity in Christ.
Moreover, the subsequent banquet that Matthew hosts for Jesus, attended by many tax collectors and sinners, highlights his inclusive nature and desire to share his newfound joy and purpose with others. This banquet becomes a setting for Jesus to articulate His mission of calling not the righteous, but sinners to repentance (Matthew 9:10-13). Matthew's willingness to associate with those marginalized by society and his eagerness to introduce them to Jesus underscore his compassionate and hospitable character.
Matthew's Gospel itself reflects his background and personality. It is meticulously organized and rich with Old Testament references, suggesting that Matthew was well-versed in Jewish scriptures and traditions. This aligns with the hypothesis that Matthew, despite his profession, was deeply connected to his Jewish roots and had a profound respect for the law and the prophets. His Gospel is particularly concerned with showing Jesus as the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies, indicating a desire to bridge the Jewish faith with the new covenant in Christ.
The Gospel of Matthew is also characterized by its emphasis on Jesus' teachings, particularly the Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5-7), which underscores the ethical and moral dimensions of the Kingdom of Heaven. This focus suggests that Matthew was deeply concerned with the practical implications of faith and the transformation of character that comes with following Jesus. His attention to detail and structured presentation of Jesus' teachings reflect a disciplined and thoughtful approach to his faith.
In terms of character, Matthew's transformation from a tax collector to an apostle exemplifies the transformative nature of Jesus' ministry. He moved from a life of self-interest and societal marginalization to one of discipleship and community. This transformation is a testament to his openness to grace and the radical change that comes from encountering Jesus.
Early Christian tradition holds that Matthew preached the Gospel in Judea and possibly beyond, with some accounts suggesting he traveled to Ethiopia or Persia. While the details of his missionary work are not well-documented, the tradition of his evangelistic efforts reflects a commitment to spreading the message of Christ, consistent with the Great Commission found in Matthew 28:18-20.
Matthew's martyrdom is not described in the Bible, but church tradition suggests that he faced persecution and possibly death for his faith. Such accounts, though varying, highlight his steadfastness and dedication to his calling as an apostle. The willingness to endure hardship and persecution for the sake of the Gospel further illustrates the depth of his character and commitment.
In summary, Matthew's life and character are marked by a profound transformation from a despised tax collector to a devoted follower of Jesus. His Gospel reflects his Jewish heritage, his concern for the fulfillment of scripture, and his emphasis on the ethical teachings of Jesus. The narrative of his calling and subsequent ministry underscores themes of redemption, inclusivity, and the transformative power of grace. Through his life and writings, Matthew offers a compelling witness to the life-changing impact of Jesus' call and the enduring mission to share the Gospel with all nations.
