INTRO: Matthew the Apostle is a significant figure in Christianity, known for his role as one of Jesus Christ’s closest followers and his contributions to the New Testament. Often depicted as a humble yet influential character, Matthew’s life and legacy hold important lessons for faith and morality. This article delves into ten fascinating facts about Matthew the Apostle that illustrate his importance within the Christian tradition.
Matthew the Apostle Was a Tax Collector Before Following Jesus
Before answering Jesus’ call to discipleship, Matthew, also known as Levi, worked as a tax collector, a profession often despised by the Jewish community due to its association with corruption and betrayal. As a tax collector for the Roman Empire, he was responsible for collecting taxes from his fellow Jews, which often involved dishonesty and exploitation. This background made his eventual choice to follow Jesus all the more remarkable; it highlights the transformative power of Christ’s message, illustrating that anyone, regardless of their past, can be redeemed and used for a greater purpose.
He Is Traditionally Regarded as the Author of the Gospel of Matthew
Matthew is traditionally credited as the author of the Gospel that bears his name, one of the four Gospels included in the New Testament. Scholars believe that this Gospel was written primarily for a Jewish audience, as it emphasizes the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies and portrays Jesus as the Messiah. The Gospel of Matthew contains unique parables and teachings, such as the Lord’s Prayer and the Great Commission, which are foundational to Christian doctrine. This attribution to Matthew underscores the significance of his perspective as a former tax collector transformed into a devoted follower of Christ.
Matthew Was One of the Twelve Apostles Chosen by Jesus
Matthew was one of the twelve apostles selected by Jesus to be part of his inner circle. These apostles were chosen to learn from Jesus, witness his miracles, and eventually spread his teachings after his resurrection. The calling of Matthew is particularly notable; it is recorded in the Gospels that Jesus specifically called him while he was sitting at his tax booth, demonstrating Jesus’ willingness to reach out to marginalized individuals. His inclusion among the apostles signifies the breaking of social barriers and the expansion of God’s Kingdom to all people, regardless of their past.
His Feast Day Is Celebrated on September 21 Each Year
Matthew’s legacy is commemorated in the Christian liturgical calendar, with his feast day celebrated annually on September 21. This day is observed by various Christian denominations, including the Roman Catholic Church, the Eastern Orthodox Church, and some Protestant traditions. During this feast, the life and contributions of Matthew are honored through special liturgies and reflections on his writings. This annual observance serves not only to remember Matthew’s role as a disciple but also to inspire believers to embrace the call to evangelize and live out ethical teachings.
Matthew Is Often Symbolized by a Winged Man in Art
In Christian iconography, Matthew is frequently represented by a winged man, which is one of the four symbols associated with the four evangelists. This symbolism is derived from the opening verses of the Gospel of Matthew, which begin with a genealogy that emphasizes Jesus’ human lineage. The winged man signifies Matthew’s focus on the humanity of Christ, emphasizing Jesus’ incarnation. Artistic depictions often show Matthew in contemplative poses, reflecting on his transformative journey from tax collector to evangelist, inviting viewers to consider their own paths to faith.
He Is Known for Emphasizing Jesus’ Teachings on Ethics
Matthew’s writings are particularly noted for their ethical instructions, which are prominently featured in his Gospel. He emphasizes the importance of moral conduct and righteousness, illustrating Jesus’ teachings on love, forgiveness, and humility. The Sermon on the Mount, a central part of Matthew’s Gospel, contains profound ethical guidance, including the Beatitudes, which bless various states of being and provide a framework for Christian living. Matthew’s focus on ethics serves as a challenge to believers to embody the values of the Kingdom of Heaven in their daily lives.
Matthew’s Gospel Contains the Sermon on the Mount
The Sermon on the Mount is one of the most significant sections of the New Testament and is found exclusively in Matthew’s Gospel (chapters 5-7). This sermon encapsulates Jesus’ core teachings and covers a variety of topics including prayer, charity, and interpersonal relationships. Through its beautiful language and profound messages, the Sermon on the Mount has influenced Christian thought and ethical behavior throughout history. Matthew’s presentation of this sermon highlights his unique role as a theologian who seeks to impart the radical nature of Jesus’ moral teachings to his audience.
He Is Believed to Have Preached in Persia and Ethiopia
After the events of the New Testament, tradition holds that Matthew took the message of Jesus beyond the borders of Israel, preaching in regions such as Persia (modern-day Iran) and Ethiopia. Church historians suggest that he played a crucial role in spreading Christianity in these areas, where he encountered diverse cultures and beliefs. His missionary work is believed to have been instrumental in establishing early Christian communities, and his journeys reflect the global mission of the Church to reach all nations, fulfilling Jesus’ command to make disciples of all people.
Matthew’s Name Means "Gift of God" in Hebrew
The name "Matthew" is derived from the Hebrew name "Matityahu," which translates to "Gift of God." This name is particularly fitting given his significant transformation from a despised tax collector to a beloved apostle and evangelist. The meaning behind his name resonates with the core Christian belief that grace and redemption are gifts from God. Through his life and work, Matthew exemplifies how individuals can become instruments of God’s grace, serving as reminders of the divine gift available to all who seek it.
He Is One of the Few Apostles Mentioned in the New Testament
Matthew is among the few apostles whose name appears multiple times throughout the New Testament, underscoring his importance within the early Christian community. His role is highlighted in the lists of apostles in the Gospels, and he is also mentioned in the Book of Acts during the selection of Matthias to replace Judas Iscariot. These references not only affirm his discipleship but also illustrate the integral part he played in the formation of the early Church, contributing to the spread of the Gospel and the establishment of Christian doctrine.
OUTRO: Matthew the Apostle’s life serves as a testament to the transformative power of faith. From his humble beginnings as a tax collector to his significant contributions as an author of one of the Gospels, Matthew’s journey reflects the core tenets of Christianity: redemption, ethical living, and the call to spread the message of hope. His legacy continues to inspire and challenge believers to pursue a life of faith and service, making his story relevant even today.