Was Matthew the Tax Collector a Disciple? Unveiling the Apostle

Yes, according to the Gospels of Matthew, Mark, and Luke, Matthew, also known as Levi, was indeed a tax collector who became one of the twelve disciples of Jesus Christ. This seemingly simple answer, however, opens a fascinating door to understanding the radical nature of Jesus’ ministry and the surprising individuals He chose to follow Him.

The Scandalous Calling of a Tax Collector

The Social Stigma of Tax Collectors

In first-century Judea, tax collectors were reviled figures. They were employed by the Roman Empire, the occupying power, and were known for exploiting their position to enrich themselves. They were seen as traitors to their own people, collaborators with the enemy, and notorious for their dishonesty. Imagine the collective gasp when Jesus, a respected rabbi, called such a person to follow Him! This act alone challenged the social and religious norms of the time, underscoring Jesus’ mission to seek and save the lost, regardless of their past.

Levi vs. Matthew: Unraveling the Name Game

The Gospels add a layer of intrigue to the story. In Matthew’s Gospel, the tax collector called to follow Jesus is explicitly named Matthew. However, in the Gospels of Mark and Luke, the tax collector who follows Jesus is named Levi. This has led to some debate, but the most common and widely accepted understanding is that Matthew and Levi are the same person. It was not uncommon for individuals in that era to have multiple names. Some scholars suggest “Levi” may have been his original Hebrew name, while “Matthew” (meaning “gift of God”) might have been given to him upon becoming a disciple.

The Feast and the Pharisees’ Fury

Following his calling, Matthew/Levi held a great feast for Jesus in his house, inviting many other tax collectors and sinners. This scene, described in all three synoptic Gospels, highlights the radical inclusivity of Jesus’ ministry. The Pharisees, sticklers for religious law and purity, were appalled. They questioned why Jesus would associate with such “unclean” individuals. Jesus’ response, “It is not the healthy who need a doctor, but the sick. But go and learn what this means: ‘I desire mercy, not sacrifice.’ For I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners,” encapsulates the core of His mission.

Matthew’s Transformation: From Tax Collector to Apostle

Witness to the Miracles and Teachings

Once a disciple, Matthew/Levi became a close follower of Jesus, witnessing His miracles, hearing His teachings, and participating in His ministry. He was present during the Sermon on the Mount, the feeding of the 5,000, and the Transfiguration. He saw Jesus heal the sick, cast out demons, and raise the dead. These experiences undoubtedly transformed him from a figure of social scorn to a fervent believer and dedicated follower.

Author of the Gospel of Matthew

Tradition holds that Matthew the Apostle is the author of the Gospel of Matthew. While modern scholarship acknowledges the complexities of authorship in ancient times, the early church unanimously attributed the Gospel to him. The Gospel of Matthew, written primarily for a Jewish audience, meticulously connects Jesus to the Old Testament prophecies, demonstrating that He is the promised Messiah. The detailed knowledge of Jewish customs and the emphasis on fulfilling prophecy suggest a writer with a deep understanding of Jewish tradition, characteristics one might expect from a former tax collector who had grown up in that culture.

The Enduring Legacy of an Unexpected Disciple

The story of Matthew the tax collector turned apostle is a powerful testament to the transformative power of grace and the radical inclusiveness of Jesus’ love. It reminds us that no one is beyond redemption and that God can use anyone, regardless of their past, to fulfill His purposes. Matthew’s Gospel continues to inspire and challenge readers around the world, offering a compelling portrait of Jesus Christ as the King of the Jews and the Savior of the world. His life stands as an enduring legacy of faith, demonstrating that true transformation is possible when we answer the call of Jesus.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Matthew the Tax Collector

1. What evidence supports that Matthew and Levi are the same person?

While the Gospels don’t explicitly state “Matthew and Levi are the same person,” the parallel narratives strongly suggest it. In Mark 2:14 and Luke 5:27, Levi is described as a tax collector who is called to follow Jesus, just as Matthew is in Matthew 9:9. All three accounts then describe a feast held in the tax collector’s house. The details are remarkably consistent, leading scholars to conclude they are referring to the same individual.

2. Why would Jesus choose a tax collector as a disciple?

Jesus’ choice of Matthew highlights His revolutionary approach to ministry. He intentionally sought out those who were marginalized, despised, and considered “unclean” by society. By choosing a tax collector, Jesus demonstrated His desire to break down social barriers and offer redemption to all, regardless of their past or social standing. He challenged the prevailing religious norms and showed that God’s love extends to everyone.

3. What was the occupation of a tax collector like in Jesus’ time?

Tax collectors in first-century Judea operated within a corrupt system. The Roman government would auction off the right to collect taxes in a particular region. The winning bidder, often a local individual, could then collect as much tax as they could, keeping the surplus after paying the Roman government its due. This system incentivized greed and exploitation, making tax collectors deeply unpopular.

4. Did Matthew/Levi have to give up his wealth to follow Jesus?

The Gospels don’t explicitly state that Matthew/Levi had to give up all his possessions. However, Luke 5:28 says that Levi “left everything behind” to follow Jesus. This suggests a significant sacrifice, likely involving abandoning his previous occupation and source of income. While the precise details are not given, the implication is that he prioritized following Jesus above material wealth.

5. What is the significance of Matthew’s Gospel being written primarily for a Jewish audience?

Matthew’s Gospel is structured and written in a way that would resonate with Jewish readers. It emphasizes the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies in Jesus’ life, portraying Him as the Messiah promised to Israel. The Gospel frequently quotes from the Old Testament and draws parallels between Jesus and figures like Moses and David. This approach suggests that Matthew intended to convince Jewish believers that Jesus was the long-awaited King.

6. How does the Gospel of Matthew depict Jesus differently from the other Gospels?

While all four Gospels present different perspectives on Jesus, Matthew’s Gospel particularly emphasizes Jesus’ kingship and authority. It portrays Him as the King of the Jews, the rightful heir to David’s throne. This is evident in the genealogy tracing Jesus’ lineage back to Abraham and David, as well as in the numerous references to the kingdom of heaven.

7. What is Matthew’s symbol as an apostle, and what does it represent?

The traditional symbol associated with Matthew the Apostle is a winged man (or angel). This symbol is derived from the opening of Matthew’s Gospel, which begins with the genealogy of Jesus, emphasizing His human lineage. The winged man represents the human aspect of Jesus’ nature and underscores the Incarnation.

8. How many times is Matthew mentioned in the New Testament outside of the Gospels?

Matthew is mentioned by name only in the Gospels (Matthew, Mark, and Luke). He is not mentioned explicitly by name in any other New Testament books, such as Acts or the Pauline epistles. His presence among the apostles is implied in Acts 1:13.

9. What is known about Matthew’s life after the resurrection of Jesus?

Information about Matthew’s life after the resurrection is scarce. Extrabiblical traditions suggest that he preached the Gospel to Jewish communities in Judea and possibly in other regions. Some accounts claim he traveled to Ethiopia or Persia. However, these accounts are not considered canonical and should be viewed with caution.

10. What does Matthew’s story teach us about God’s grace and forgiveness?

Matthew’s transformation from a despised tax collector to a devoted apostle beautifully illustrates the unconditional nature of God’s grace and forgiveness. It demonstrates that no one is beyond redemption and that God can use even the most unlikely individuals to accomplish His purposes. His story inspires hope and reminds us that God’s love extends to all, regardless of their past mistakes.

11. How can we apply the lessons from Matthew’s life to our own lives today?

Matthew’s story challenges us to examine our own prejudices and assumptions. It encourages us to extend compassion and grace to those who are marginalized or considered “outsiders” by society. It also reminds us that true transformation is possible when we surrender our lives to Jesus and allow Him to work in us. Finally, it teaches us that God can use our unique backgrounds and experiences, even those we may be ashamed of, to further His kingdom.

12. What are some resources for further study about Matthew the Apostle?

For deeper exploration of Matthew the Apostle, consider consulting reputable theological resources such as commentaries on the Gospel of Matthew, biblical dictionaries, and scholarly articles on New Testament history and theology. Websites and online databases of biblical studies can also provide valuable information. Be sure to evaluate the sources critically and consider diverse perspectives.