The calling of Matthew, also known as Levi, is a significant event in the New Testament, illustrating Jesus' mission to reach out to sinners and those marginalized by society. This event is recorded in the Synoptic Gospels: Matthew 9:9-13, Mark 2:13-17, and Luke 5:27-32.

Context and Background

Matthew, identified as Levi in the Gospels of Mark and Luke, was a tax collector by profession. Tax collectors were often despised by the Jewish people because they worked for the Roman authorities and were known for their corrupt practices. They were considered traitors and sinners, socially ostracized and religiously impure.

The Call

In Matthew 9:9 , the account begins: "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." This simple yet profound invitation from Jesus to Matthew is a testament to the grace and inclusivity of Jesus' ministry. Despite Matthew's social status and occupation, Jesus saw potential and worth in him.

Response and Transformation

Matthew's immediate response to Jesus' call is noteworthy. He left his lucrative position and followed Jesus without hesitation. This act of obedience and faith signifies a radical transformation and commitment to a new life. In Luke 5:28 , it is recorded, "And Levi got up, left everything, and followed Him."

The Banquet

Following his call, Matthew hosted a banquet in honor of Jesus, inviting many of his fellow tax collectors and sinners. This event is described in Matthew 9:10 : "While Jesus was having dinner at Matthew’s house, many tax collectors and sinners came and ate with Him and His disciples." This gathering highlights Jesus' willingness to associate with those deemed unworthy by religious leaders, emphasizing His mission to seek and save the lost.

Pharisees' Criticism

The presence of Jesus among tax collectors and sinners drew criticism from the Pharisees. They questioned His disciples, as recorded in Matthew 9:11 : "When the Pharisees saw this, they asked His disciples, 'Why does your Teacher eat with tax collectors and sinners?'" The Pharisees' question underscores their misunderstanding of Jesus' purpose and the nature of God's mercy.

Jesus' Response

In response to the Pharisees, Jesus articulated His mission with clarity and authority. Matthew 9:12-13 states: "On hearing this, Jesus said, '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.'" Jesus' words reveal His focus on mercy and redemption, challenging the legalistic and judgmental attitudes of the religious elite.

Significance

The calling of Matthew is a powerful narrative of grace, illustrating that Jesus' message is for all, regardless of social or moral standing. It serves as a reminder of the transformative power of Christ's call and the inclusivity of the Gospel. Matthew's subsequent role as one of the twelve apostles and the author of the Gospel of Matthew further underscores the profound impact of Jesus' invitation and the potential for redemption and service in God's kingdom.