The Calling of Matthew is a significant event in the New Testament, illustrating Jesus Christ's mission to reach out to sinners and those marginalized by society. This event is recorded in the Synoptic Gospels, specifically in Matthew 9:9-13, Mark 2:13-17, and Luke 5:27-32. Matthew, also known as Levi, was a tax collector, a profession often despised by the Jewish people due to its association with Roman oppression and perceived corruption.

Biblical Account

In the Gospel of Matthew, the account is succinctly described: "As Jesus went on from there, He saw a man named Matthew sitting at the tax booth. 'Follow Me,' He told him, and Matthew got up and followed Him" (Matthew 9:9). This simple yet profound invitation from Jesus and Matthew's immediate response highlight the transformative power of Christ's call.

The Gospel of Mark provides a similar account, emphasizing the setting by the sea and the crowd that followed Jesus: "Once again Jesus went out beside the sea. All the people came to Him, and He taught them. As He was walking along, He saw Levi son of Alphaeus sitting at the tax booth. 'Follow Me,' He told him, and Levi got up and followed Him" (Mark 2:13-14).

Luke's Gospel adds further detail, noting Levi's response to Jesus' call: "After this, Jesus went out and saw a tax collector named Levi sitting at the tax booth. 'Follow Me,' He told him, and Levi got up, left everything, and followed Him" (Luke 5:27-28). This account underscores Levi's willingness to abandon his former life and possessions to become a disciple of Christ.

Cultural and Religious Context

Tax collectors in first-century Judea were often viewed as traitors and sinners by their fellow Jews. They were employed by the Roman authorities to collect taxes from their own people, and many were known for extorting more than what was required, enriching themselves at the expense of others. This profession's stigma made Matthew's calling particularly noteworthy, as it demonstrated Jesus' willingness to associate with and redeem those considered outcasts.

Theological Significance

The calling of Matthew is a powerful testament to the grace and inclusivity of Jesus' ministry. By choosing a tax collector as one of His disciples, Jesus challenged societal norms and religious prejudices, emphasizing that His message of salvation was available to all, regardless of their past. This event also prefigures the Great Commission, where Jesus commands His followers to make disciples of all nations, transcending cultural and social barriers.

Jesus' Response to Criticism

Following Matthew's call, Jesus dined at his house with many tax collectors and sinners, prompting criticism from the Pharisees. In response, Jesus articulated a central tenet of His mission: "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" (Matthew 9:12-13). This statement underscores the redemptive purpose of Jesus' ministry and His focus on mercy over ritualistic adherence to the law.

Legacy of Matthew

Matthew's transformation from a tax collector to an apostle and evangelist is a profound example of the life-changing impact of Jesus' call. Traditionally attributed as the author of the Gospel of Matthew, he played a crucial role in spreading the message of Christ and establishing the early Church. His account continues to inspire believers to embrace the call of Christ, regardless of their past, and to extend grace and mercy to others.