Matthew the Apostle, also known as Levi, is one of the most fascinating figures in the New Testament. As a tax collector and one of Jesus' twelve apostles, Matthew played a significant role in the early Christian church. His life is a testament to the power of faith and the transformative impact of Jesus' teachings. In this article, we will delve into the life of Matthew the Apostle, exploring his background, his calling as an apostle, and his contributions to the Christian faith.
Key Points
- Matthew was a tax collector before being called by Jesus to become one of his twelve apostles.
- He is believed to have written the Gospel of Matthew, which is one of the four canonical Gospels in the New Testament.
- Matthew's Gospel is known for its emphasis on Jesus' fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies and his role as the Messiah.
- After Jesus' resurrection, Matthew is thought to have preached in the Middle East and North Africa, spreading the message of Christianity to Jewish and Gentile communities.
- Matthew's feast day is celebrated on September 21 in the Western Christian tradition and on November 16 in the Eastern Orthodox Church.
Background and Calling
Matthew’s background as a tax collector is significant, as it highlights the transformative power of Jesus’ teachings. As a tax collector, Matthew would have been viewed with suspicion and distrust by the Jewish community, who saw tax collectors as collaborators with the Roman Empire. However, Jesus saw something in Matthew that no one else did - potential. When Jesus called Matthew to follow him, Matthew left everything behind, including his lucrative career as a tax collector, to become one of Jesus’ twelve apostles.
The Gospel of Matthew
The Gospel of Matthew is one of the most important books in the New Testament, and it is believed to have been written by Matthew himself. The Gospel is known for its emphasis on Jesus’ fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies and his role as the Messiah. Matthew’s Gospel is also notable for its use of parables and its emphasis on the importance of faith and discipleship. The Gospel of Matthew is divided into 28 chapters, and it includes some of the most famous stories and teachings in the Bible, such as the Sermon on the Mount and the parable of the prodigal son.
| Book of the Bible | Author | Date Written |
|---|---|---|
| Gospel of Matthew | Matthew the Apostle | 70-100 AD |
Ministry and Legacy
After Jesus’ resurrection, Matthew is thought to have preached in the Middle East and North Africa, spreading the message of Christianity to Jewish and Gentile communities. According to tradition, Matthew wrote his Gospel in Hebrew, and it was later translated into Greek. The Gospel of Matthew is one of the most widely read and influential books in the Bible, and its impact can be seen in the art, literature, and theology of the Western world.
Historical Significance
Matthew’s legacy extends far beyond his Gospel. As one of Jesus’ twelve apostles, Matthew played a significant role in the early Christian church, helping to establish the church in Jerusalem and spreading the message of Christianity to the wider world. Matthew’s feast day is celebrated on September 21 in the Western Christian tradition and on November 16 in the Eastern Orthodox Church.
What is the significance of Matthew's background as a tax collector?
+Matthew's background as a tax collector highlights the transformative power of Jesus' teachings. As a tax collector, Matthew would have been viewed with suspicion and distrust by the Jewish community, but Jesus saw something in him that no one else did - potential.
What is the main theme of the Gospel of Matthew?
+The main theme of the Gospel of Matthew is Jesus' fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies and his role as the Messiah. The Gospel emphasizes the importance of faith and discipleship, and it includes some of the most famous stories and teachings in the Bible.
What is Matthew's legacy in the Christian church?
+Matthew's legacy in the Christian church is significant. As one of Jesus' twelve apostles, Matthew played a key role in establishing the church in Jerusalem and spreading the message of Christianity to the wider world. His Gospel is one of the most influential books in the Bible, and its impact can be seen in the art, literature, and theology of the Western world.
In conclusion, Matthew the Apostle’s life is a testament to the power of faith and the transformative impact of Jesus’ teachings. From his background as a tax collector to his calling as an apostle, Matthew’s story is one of redemption and purpose. His Gospel, which is one of the most widely read and influential books in the Bible, continues to inspire and guide Christians around the world. As we reflect on Matthew’s life and legacy, we are reminded of the importance of faith, discipleship, and the pursuit of our calling, no matter where it may lead us.
