New Testament · character
Matthew
From a tax collector at his booth to a Gospel writer.
Matthew was a tax collector gathering taxes for Rome, but at Jesus' single word, "Follow me," he left everything to follow and became one of the Twelve and a Gospel writer.
Timeline at a glance
- The CallRising from the tax booth to follow (Matthew 9)
- The BanquetA table set for sinners (Matthew 9)
- The GospelBearing witness to Jesus the promised King (Gospel of Matthew)
The Call at the Tax Booth
Matthew (also called Levi) was a tax collector sitting at the booth in Capernaum. To this man regarded as a traitor by his own people, Jesus said, "Follow me," and he got up at once and followed (Matthew 9).
A Table with Sinners
Matthew threw a banquet at his house, inviting tax collectors and sinners. When the Pharisees objected, Jesus answered, "It is not the healthy who need a doctor, but the sick."
The Gospel Writer
Tradition holds Matthew to be the writer of the first Gospel. For Jewish readers he repeatedly showed that the Old Testament promises were fulfilled in Jesus, portraying him as the promised King.
Related verses
- Matthew 9:9"'Follow me,' he told him, and Matthew got up and followed him."
- Matthew 9:13"I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners."
Frequently asked questions
Are Matthew and Levi the same person?
Yes. Mark and Luke call him "Levi" in the same episode, while Matthew's Gospel calls him "Matthew." They are understood as two names for one man.