Who was Matthew in the Bible?
Matthew, one of Jesus’ twelve apostles, was a significant figure in the New Testament. He is often best known as the author of the Gospel of Matthew, which is the first book of the New Testament. Matthew’s life and contributions offer an important insight into the early Christian community and the teachings of Jesus.
Early Life and Background
Matthew, originally named Levi, was a tax collector. During the time he lived, tax collectors were often viewed negatively because they worked for the Roman occupiers and were known for taking more than what was owed. This profession made him an outsider to many in Jewish society. Despite his questionable occupation, Jesus saw potential in him.
His transformation began when Jesus called him to follow as an apostle. This was a significant moment in Matthew’s life, marking his transition from a tax collector to a follower of Christ. The calling is depicted in the Gospel of Matthew (Matthew 9:9-13), where it describes how Matthew left everything behind to follow Jesus.
Matthew’s Role Among the Apostles
After his calling, Matthew became one of the twelve apostles chosen by Jesus. The apostles were a diverse group, each with their unique backgrounds and personalities. Despite his past as a tax collector, Matthew played an essential role among Jesus’ inner circle. He witnessed many significant events during Jesus’s ministry, including miracles, teachings, and the Last Supper.
The name “Matthew” means “gift of God,” and it is fitting considering his remarkable journey from tax collector to devoted apostle. He also represents the acceptance of all people by Jesus—showing that no one is beyond redemption.
Contributions to the New Testament
Matthew is credited with writing the Gospel that bears his name. This book is particularly important for several reasons. First, it highlights the connection between Jesus and the Jewish faith, as Matthew frequently quotes Old Testament prophecies. This approach was vital for establishing Jesus as the awaited Messiah among the Jewish people.
The Gospel of Matthew also emphasizes the teachings of Jesus through the Sermon on the Mount. This powerful collection of teachings presents the core of Christian ethics and morality. Key components, such as the Beatitudes, offer a profound perspective on happiness, humility, and righteousness.
Another significant aspect of the Gospel is its structure. Matthew organizes his account of Jesus’s life into five major sections, reflecting the five books of the Torah. This organization helps Jewish readers understand how Jesus fulfills the law.
Matthew’s Legacy in Early Christianity
Matthew’s impact didn’t end with his Gospel. According to early Christian tradition, he actively spread the teachings of Jesus after Christ’s ascension. While details about his later life are less clear, many believe he traveled to various regions, including Ethiopia and Persia, to spread the message of the gospel.
Tradition holds that he preached to both Jews and Gentiles, further breaking down barriers within the faith. Matthew was known for his emphasis on Jesus’s mission of salvation for all people, regardless of their background.
The Final Years and Death of Matthew
The circumstances surrounding Matthew’s death are largely based on tradition and various historical accounts. According to some sources, he faced persecution for his beliefs, with some even claiming he was martyred for his faith. However, the specifics are not well-documented in the scriptures.
His death serves as a testament to his unwavering dedication to Jesus years after the resurrection. Matthew’s contributions to the early church undoubtedly laid the groundwork for future generations of Christians.
The Importance of Matthew Today
In contemporary Christianity, Matthew’s Gospel continues to be significant. It is read and studied for its teachings and its detailed account of Jesus’s life. Moreover, his story reminds believers of the power of transformation, acceptance, and the call to follow Christ despite one’s past.
Matthew’s legacy encourages people to believe that anyone can become an instrument of God’s work, regardless of their background. His life is a powerful message of hope, faith, and redemption.
Summary of Key Themes
To summarize, Matthew in the Bible was not only an apostle but also a pivotal figure in early Christianity. His journey from tax collector to disciple exemplifies the transformative power of encountering Christ. Through his Gospel, he brought to light the teachings of Jesus and connected them to Jewish heritage, thus reaching a broad audience.
As a figure both of his time and of lasting influence, Matthew’s story continues to inspire countless individuals seeking faith, acceptance, and purpose.
Common Questions Related to Who Was Matthew In The Bible?
Q. What was Matthew’s original name?
A. Matthew was originally named Levi before he became a follower of Jesus.
Q. What was Matthew’s profession before following Jesus?
A. He was a tax collector, a profession often looked down upon in Jewish society.
Q. Why is the Gospel of Matthew significant?
A. It connects Jesus to Jewish prophecies and includes crucial teachings such as the Sermon on the Mount.
Q. How did Matthew respond to Jesus’s call?
A. He immediately left his tax booth and followed Jesus, showcasing his commitment.
Q. Where is it believed that Matthew preached after Jesus’s resurrection?
A. He is thought to have preached in various places, including Ethiopia and parts of Persia.
Q. What does the name “Matthew” mean?
A. The name “Matthew” means “gift of God.”
Q. Was Matthew martyred?
A. Although the details are unclear, tradition holds that he was martyred for his faith.
Q. How does Matthew’s Gospel differ from the others?
A. It emphasizes Jesus’s teachings, his fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies, and has a structured format that mimics the Torah.
Q. What message does Matthew’s life convey?
A. Matthew’s life conveys themes of redemption, acceptance, and the transformative power of following Christ.
Q. Which major teaching of Jesus is found in the Gospel of Matthew?
A. The Sermon on the Mount is one of the major teachings found in Matthew’s Gospel, addressing ethics and morality.
Explore Further
If you found this page about Matthew interesting and would like to discover more about other biblical characters, explore our comprehensive Encyclopedia of Biblical Characters. For those looking to delve deeper into the Greek origins of these names and terms, our Greek Lexicon is an invaluable resource.