INTRO: Saint Matthew holds a significant place in Christian tradition as one of the Twelve Apostles and the author of the first Gospel of the New Testament. His life and contributions to early Christianity continue to inspire believers and scholars alike. This article presents ten fascinating facts about Saint Matthew, shedding light on his background, teachings, and enduring legacy.
1. Saint Matthew Was One of the Twelve Apostles of Jesus
Saint Matthew was chosen by Jesus Christ to be one of His Twelve Apostles, a group designated to spread His teachings and establish the foundations of the Christian faith. Originally named Levi, he was called by Jesus while sitting at his tax booth, a crucial moment that marked the transition from his former life to one of spiritual leadership. As an Apostle, Matthew played a vital role in witnessing the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus, contributing to the early church’s formation and the dissemination of Christ’s message.
2. He Authored the First Gospel in the New Testament
Matthew is credited with writing the first Gospel in the New Testament, which bears his name. This Gospel presents a detailed account of Jesus’s life, teachings, death, and resurrection. Written primarily for a Jewish audience, Matthew’s Gospel emphasizes Jesus as the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies, portraying Him as the long-awaited Messiah. Its structured approach and incorporation of parables make it a foundational text for understanding Christian doctrine and the teachings of Jesus.
3. Matthew Was a Tax Collector Before Following Christ
Before his apostolic calling, Matthew was a tax collector, a profession often despised by his fellow Jews due to its association with Roman oppression and corruption. Tax collectors were typically viewed as traitors, collecting taxes from their own people for the occupying Romans. When Jesus called him to leave his lucrative position and follow Him, Matthew exemplified the transformative power of Christ’s message, leaving behind a life of financial security for one of spiritual fulfillment and service.
4. His Feast Day Is Celebrated on September 21 Each Year
Saint Matthew’s Feast Day is celebrated on September 21 in the Western Christian tradition. This day serves as a reminder of his contributions to the faith and his role as an Apostle. In some Eastern Christian traditions, his feast day is observed on November 16. The celebration often includes special liturgical services, prayers, and readings from the Gospel of Matthew, allowing the faithful to reflect on his life and teachings.
5. Saint Matthew Is Often Symbolized by a Winged Man
In Christian iconography, Saint Matthew is commonly represented by a winged man or angel. This symbolism derives from the prophecy in the Book of Ezekiel, which describes four living creatures, one of which has the appearance of a man. The winged man symbolizes Matthew’s human perspective on the divine nature of Jesus Christ, emphasizing the Gospel’s focus on His incarnation. This representation can be seen in various artworks, including stained glass windows and paintings in churches.
6. He Was Known for His Emphasis on Jesus’ Teachings
Matthew’s Gospel is particularly known for its emphasis on the ethical teachings of Jesus, including the Sermon on the Mount. This sermon encapsulates key moral principles such as love, mercy, and humility, urging followers to live according to God’s will. Matthew records many parables that illustrate these teachings, making complex spiritual truths accessible to his audience. His focus on practical application of faith has made his writings a guiding source for Christian moral thought.
7. Matthew’s Gospel Is Notable for Its Genealogy of Jesus
One of the distinctive features of Matthew’s Gospel is its detailed genealogy of Jesus, which traces His lineage back to Abraham, the father of the Jewish faith. This genealogy serves to establish Jesus’s credentials as the Messiah by demonstrating His rightful place in Jewish history and fulfilling Old Testament prophecies. By showcasing the diverse and often surprising lineage of Jesus, including women and gentiles, Matthew underscores the universal nature of Christ’s mission.
8. He is the Patron Saint of Tax Collectors and Accountants
Given his former profession, Saint Matthew is recognized as the patron saint of tax collectors and accountants. His life story serves as a testament to the idea that anyone can be called to a higher purpose, regardless of their past. This association provides hope and encouragement to those in financial professions, reminding them that their work can be a means of serving God’s greater plan.
9. Saint Matthew’s Life Is Celebrated in Christian Art
Throughout history, Saint Matthew has been a popular subject in Christian art, depicted in various forms such as paintings, sculptures, and mosaics. Artists like Caravaggio, Rembrandt, and El Greco have portrayed Matthew in scenes from his life, particularly his calling by Jesus and his role as an Apostle. These artistic representations not only celebrate his legacy but also serve to inspire viewers to reflect on the transformative power of faith.
10. His Symbolic Representation Appears in Many Traditions
Saint Matthew’s influence extends beyond Christian traditions, with his symbolic representation appearing in various religious and cultural contexts. In the Catholic Church, he is often invoked for guidance in financial matters, while in Eastern Orthodox traditions, his writings are revered for their spiritual depth. Additionally, Matthew’s image can be found in the art and architecture of churches worldwide, signifying his enduring impact on Christianity and the broader cultural landscape.
OUTRO: Saint Matthew’s life and contributions to the Christian faith are marked by his remarkable journey from tax collector to Apostle. His writings and teachings continue to shape the beliefs and practices of millions around the world. By exploring these ten facts, we gain a deeper understanding of Saint Matthew’s significance and the lessons that his life imparts to contemporary believers.