The Call of Levi, also known as the Call of Matthew, is a significant event in the New Testament, recorded in the Synoptic Gospels: Matthew 9:9-13, Mark 2:13-17, and Luke 5:27-32. This event marks the moment when Jesus calls Levi, a tax collector, to follow Him, illustrating the transformative power of Jesus' ministry and His mission to reach sinners.

Biblical Account

In the Gospel of Matthew, the account is brief yet profound: "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). The Gospel of Mark provides a similar narrative: "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 account adds a detail about Levi's response: "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).

Historical and Cultural Context

Levi, also known as Matthew, was a tax collector, a profession often despised by the Jewish people. Tax collectors were seen as traitors and sinners because they worked for the Roman authorities and were known for their corrupt practices. Despite this, Jesus calls Levi to be one of His disciples, demonstrating His willingness to reach out to those marginalized by society.

Theological Significance

The Call of Levi highlights several key theological themes:

1. Grace and Redemption: Jesus' call to Levi underscores the message of grace and redemption. By choosing a tax collector, Jesus shows that no one is beyond the reach of God's grace. Levi's immediate response to follow Jesus signifies a radical transformation and acceptance of this grace.

2. Mission to Sinners: This event emphasizes Jesus' mission to seek and save the lost. When questioned by the Pharisees about dining with tax collectors and sinners, Jesus responds, "It is not the healthy who need a doctor, but the sick. I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners" (Mark 2:17). This statement encapsulates the heart of Jesus' ministry.

3. Discipleship and Sacrifice: Levi's willingness to leave everything behind to follow Jesus is a powerful example of discipleship. It reflects the call to forsake worldly attachments and prioritize the kingdom of God.

Levi's Legacy

Levi, also known as Matthew, is traditionally credited as the author of the Gospel of Matthew. His transformation from a tax collector to an apostle and evangelist is a testament to the life-changing impact of Jesus' call. Through his Gospel, Matthew provides a detailed account of Jesus' life and teachings, contributing significantly to the New Testament and the spread of the Christian faith.

The Call of Levi remains a profound example of Jesus' inclusive love and the transformative power of His call to follow Him, regardless of one's past or societal status.