Matthew, also known as Levi, is a significant figure in the New Testament, primarily recognized as one of the twelve apostles of Jesus Christ and the author of the Gospel of Matthew. Understanding who Matthew was and his role in the Bible provides insight into the early Christian church and the spread of the Gospel.
Matthew's background is intriguing, as he was originally a tax collector before becoming one of Jesus' disciples. Tax collectors in first-century Judea were often viewed with disdain by their fellow Jews. They were seen as collaborators with the Roman occupiers, and their profession was associated with corruption and greed. This negative perception is evident in the Gospels, where tax collectors are frequently grouped with sinners (Matthew 9:10-11, Luke 18:11).
The Gospel of Matthew itself provides a brief account of Matthew's calling. In Matthew 9:9, it is written, "As Jesus passed on from there, he saw a man called Matthew sitting at the tax booth, and he said to him, 'Follow me.' And he rose and followed him." This simple yet profound moment underscores the transformative power of Jesus' call. Despite his past, Matthew was chosen to be part of Jesus' inner circle, highlighting the message of grace and redemption central to the Christian faith.
Matthew's role as an apostle was crucial in the early church's mission to spread the teachings of Jesus. As one of the twelve, he was a witness to Jesus' ministry, death, and resurrection. This firsthand experience provided him with the authority and insight needed to accurately convey the life and teachings of Jesus in his Gospel. The Gospel of Matthew is particularly significant because it serves as a bridge between the Old and New Testaments. It frequently references Hebrew Scriptures, showing how Jesus fulfilled Old Testament prophecies, thereby establishing a continuity between Jewish tradition and the new Christian faith.
The Gospel of Matthew is structured to address a primarily Jewish audience, emphasizing Jesus as the long-awaited Messiah. This is evident in the genealogy presented in Matthew 1, which traces Jesus' lineage back to Abraham and David, underscoring his rightful place in Jewish history. Furthermore, Matthew's Gospel is rich with teachings, including the Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5-7), which contains some of the most profound ethical instructions in the New Testament. These teachings emphasize the importance of inner righteousness, compassion, and adherence to God's will.
Matthew also plays a vital role in highlighting the universality of Jesus' message. While his Gospel begins with a focus on Jewish tradition, it concludes with the Great Commission (Matthew 28:18-20), where Jesus instructs his disciples to "go and make disciples of all nations." This directive underscores the inclusivity of the Gospel message, calling for the spread of Jesus' teachings beyond the confines of Judaism to all people.
The portrayal of Matthew in the Bible offers a powerful narrative of transformation and redemption. His transition from a tax collector to an apostle exemplifies the transformative impact of encountering Jesus. This theme of transformation is a recurring motif in Christian literature and theology, emphasizing that no one is beyond the reach of God's grace.
In addition to the biblical account, early Christian tradition provides further insights into Matthew's life and ministry. Some accounts suggest that Matthew preached the Gospel in various regions, including Ethiopia and possibly Persia, though these accounts vary and should be approached with caution. Nonetheless, these traditions highlight the far-reaching impact of his ministry and the spread of Christianity in the early centuries.
Matthew's Gospel has also been a source of inspiration and theological reflection throughout Christian history. Theologians such as Augustine, Thomas Aquinas, and John Calvin have drawn upon its teachings to articulate key doctrines and ethical principles. Its emphasis on the Kingdom of Heaven, the fulfillment of prophecy, and the ethical teachings of Jesus continue to resonate with Christians today.
In summary, Matthew's role in the Bible is multifaceted. As an apostle, he was a direct witness to Jesus' ministry and a key figure in the early church. His Gospel serves as a foundational text that bridges Jewish tradition with the new Christian faith, emphasizing both the fulfillment of prophecy and the universality of Jesus' message. Matthew's life story is a testament to the transformative power of Jesus' call, offering hope and inspiration to believers throughout the ages. Through his writings and his witness, Matthew continues to play a vital role in the ongoing story of Christianity, inviting all to follow the teachings of Jesus and participate in the mission of the church.
