# Matthew (Levi) ## Name(s) and Meaning - **Names:** Matthew, Levi. - **Meaning:** "Gift of Yahweh" (Matthew) and "Joined" or "attached" (Levi). - **Significance:** The name "Matthew" signifies his role as a chosen disciple and apostle of Jesus, a gift to the early Christian church. "Levi" reflects his Jewish heritage and possible priestly lineage. ## Lifespan/Timeline - **Lifespan:** Active during the early 1st century AD. - **Historical Context:** Lived during the time of Jesus' ministry in the Roman province of Judea. ## Roles/Titles - **Roles:** Disciple, apostle, author of the Gospel of Matthew. - **Significance:** As a disciple, he was one of the twelve apostles chosen by Jesus. He is traditionally credited with authoring the Gospel of Matthew, which provides a Jewish perspective on the life and teachings of Jesus. ## Tags - #biblical-figures - #roles-disciple - #roles-apostle - #timelines-new-testament ## Cross-References - Introduced as Levi in [[Mark/Mark Chapter 2|Mark Chapter 2]] and [[Luke/Luke Chapter 5|Luke Chapter 5]]. - Called by Jesus in [[Matthew/Matthew Chapter 9|Matthew Chapter 9]]. - Listed among the apostles in [[Acts/Acts Chapter 1|Acts Chapter 1]]. ## Key References: Matthew (Levi) ### Primary Passages - **Calling of Matthew:** - [[Matthew/Matthew Chapter 9 Verses 9-13|Matthew 9:9-13]]—Jesus calls Matthew, a tax collector, to follow Him, illustrating Jesus' outreach to sinners. - [[Mark/Mark Chapter 2 Verses 14-17|Mark 2:14-17]]—Parallel account of Matthew's calling, highlighting Jesus' mission to call sinners. - [[Luke/Luke Chapter 5 Verses 27-32|Luke 5:27-32]]—Luke's account of Levi's call, emphasizing repentance and Jesus' association with outcasts. ### Mentions in Genealogies - While Matthew (Levi) is not specifically mentioned in genealogical records, he is identified as a tax collector and one of the twelve apostles, indicating his role in the early church's foundational lineage. ### New Testament References - **Matthew as Apostle:** - [[Acts/Acts Chapter 1 Verse 13|Acts 1:13]]—Listed among the apostles gathered in the upper room after Jesus' ascension, part of the early church leadership. ### Prophetic/Typological References - Matthew's calling and his role as an apostle are not directly prophetic or typological in the traditional sense. However, his transformation from tax collector to disciple exemplifies the transformative power of Jesus' ministry and fulfills the broader prophetic theme of redemption for all peoples, including outcasts and sinners. ### Tags - #key-references - #new-testament - #apostle - #redemption - #transformation ## Relationships: Matthew (Levi) ### Family Relationships - **Parents:** Matthew is identified as the son of Alphaeus ([[Mark/Mark Chapter 2|Mark Chapter 2]]). - **Siblings:** There is no explicit mention of siblings in the scriptures regarding Matthew. However, James the Less is also noted as the son of Alphaeus, which might suggest a familial connection ([[Mark/Mark Chapter 3|Mark Chapter 3]]). ### Allies/Friends - **Jesus Christ:** Matthew was called by Jesus to be one of His twelve apostles, leaving his tax booth to follow Him ([[Matthew/Matthew Chapter 9|Matthew Chapter 9]], [[Mark/Mark Chapter 2|Mark Chapter 2]], [[Luke/Luke Chapter 5|Luke Chapter 5]]). - **Other Apostles:** Matthew associated closely with the other apostles as part of Jesus' inner circle, participating in the ministry and mission activities ([[Acts/Acts Chapter 1|Acts Chapter 1]]). ### Adversaries/Conflicts - **Pharisees:** As a tax collector, Matthew would have been viewed unfavorably by the Pharisees and the Jewish community prior to his conversion due to his profession, which was often associated with corruption and collaboration with Roman authorities ([[Matthew/Matthew Chapter 9|Matthew Chapter 9]]). ### Spiritual Relationships - **God/Jesus:** Matthew's relationship with God was transformed through his calling by Jesus. He responded immediately to Jesus' invitation, showing a willingness to leave behind his former life for discipleship ([[Matthew/Matthew Chapter 9|Matthew Chapter 9]], [[Luke/Luke Chapter 5|Luke Chapter 5]]). - **Holy Spirit:** Matthew, as one of the apostles, would have been present at Pentecost and received the Holy Spirit along with the others ([[Acts/Acts Chapter 2|Acts Chapter 2]]). ### Tags - #relationships - #family - #allies - #conflicts - #relationship-with-God - #apostle - #taxcollector ## Significance: Matthew (Levi) ### Theological Importance - **Witness to Christ:** As one of the twelve apostles, Matthew was a direct witness to the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ, contributing to the spread and accuracy of the Gospel message ([[Matthew/Matthew Chapter 9|Matthew Chapter 9]], [[Mark/Mark Chapter 2|Mark Chapter 2]], [[Luke/Luke Chapter 5|Luke Chapter 5]]). - **Author of the Gospel of Matthew:** His Gospel emphasizes Jesus as the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecy, highlighting the kingdom of heaven, and the teachings of Jesus, particularly in the Sermon on the Mount ([[Matthew/Matthew Chapter 5|Matthew Chapter 5]]). ### Historical Context - **From Tax Collector to Apostle:** Matthew's transformation from a tax collector, a position often associated with sin and betrayal of the Jewish people, to a devoted follower of Christ, illustrates the power of Jesus' call and the theme of redemption ([[Matthew/Matthew Chapter 9|Matthew Chapter 9]], [[Mark/Mark Chapter 2|Mark Chapter 2]], [[Luke/Luke Chapter 5|Luke Chapter 5]]). - **Role in the Early Church:** As an apostle, Matthew played a vital role in the establishment of the early Christian church, contributing to its doctrinal formation and missionary expansion ([[Acts/Acts Chapter 1|Acts Chapter 1]]). ### Symbolism and Typology - **Symbol of Redemption and Grace:** Matthew's life story serves as a testament to God's grace and willingness to redeem those whom society has marginalized or deemed unworthy, emphasizing Jesus' mission to seek and save the lost ([[Luke/Luke Chapter 5|Luke Chapter 5]]). - **Typology of Witness:** Through his Gospel, Matthew provides a comprehensive witness to Jesus' messianic mission, serving as a typological figure for those called to proclaim the Gospel ([[Matthew/Matthew Chapter 28|Matthew Chapter 28]]). ### Tags - #significance - #theological-themes - #redemption - #grace - #biblical-history - #typology - #apostle - #gospel-writer ## Character Study: Matthew (Levi) ### Strengths and Virtues - **Responsive to Jesus' Call:** Matthew, also known as Levi, was a tax collector, seen as a sinner by the Jewish community. Despite this, he immediately left his profession to follow Jesus when called ([[Matthew/Matthew Chapter 9 Verse 9|Matthew 9:9]], [[Mark/Mark Chapter 2 Verse 14|Mark 2:14]], [[Luke/Luke Chapter 5 Verse 27|Luke 5:27]]). His willingness to leave everything behind demonstrates his readiness to embrace a new life in Christ. - **Hospitality:** After his calling, Matthew held a great banquet for Jesus at his house, inviting many tax collectors and sinners, showing his openness and desire to share Jesus with others ([[Luke/Luke Chapter 5 Verses 29|Luke 5:29]]). ### Weaknesses and Failures - **Association with Sinners:** As a tax collector, Matthew was associated with societal corruption and dishonesty, viewed as a traitor by his fellow Jews for collaborating with the Roman authorities ([[Matthew/Matthew Chapter 9 Verse 10|Matthew 9:10]]). However, through Jesus' call, he was redeemed from this life of sin. ### Lessons Learned - **Transformation through Christ:** Matthew's life illustrates the transformative power of Jesus' call, turning a sinner into a devoted disciple and Gospel writer. This encourages believers that no one is beyond the reach of God's grace ([[Matthew/Matthew Chapter 9 Verse 13|Matthew 9:13]]). - **Inclusivity in the Kingdom of God:** By hosting a banquet for Jesus and inviting others from his previous life, Matthew demonstrates that the message of the Gospel is for everyone, regardless of past sins or societal status ([[Luke/Luke Chapter 5 Verses 30-32|Luke 5:30-32]]). ### Tags - #strengths-responsive - #strengths-hospitality - #weaknesses-associationWithSinners - #lessons-transformation - #lessons-inclusivity ## Themes and Symbolism: Matthew (Levi) ### Key Themes - **Transformation and Redemption:** Matthew, originally a tax collector, represents the theme of personal transformation and redemption through Christ. His calling demonstrates that Jesus came to save all, even those considered sinners ([[Matthew/Matthew Chapter 9|Matthew Chapter 9]], [[Mark/Mark Chapter 2|Mark Chapter 2]], [[Luke/Luke Chapter 5|Luke Chapter 5]]). - **Discipleship and Mission:** Matthew's response to Jesus' call highlights the theme of discipleship, leaving everything behind to follow Christ and later participating in the Great Commission ([[Matthew/Matthew Chapter 9|Matthew Chapter 9]], [[Matthew/Matthew Chapter 28|Matthew Chapter 28]]). - **Faith in Action:** Through his life and Gospel, Matthew emphasizes living out one's faith through action and obedience to Jesus' teachings ([[Matthew/Matthew Chapter 5|Matthew Chapter 5]], [[Matthew/Matthew Chapter 7|Matthew Chapter 7]]). ### Symbolic Elements - **Tax Collector Booth:** Symbolizes Matthew's old life of materialism and potential dishonesty, contrasting with his new life of integrity and witness for Christ ([[Matthew/Matthew Chapter 9|Matthew Chapter 9]], [[Luke/Luke Chapter 5|Luke Chapter 5]]). - **Feast with Sinners:** The meal at Matthew's house symbolizes the inclusivity of the Kingdom of God, where Jesus associates with sinners to bring them salvation ([[Matthew/Matthew Chapter 9|Matthew Chapter 9]], [[Mark/Mark Chapter 2|Mark Chapter 2]]). ### Foreshadowing/Typology - **Gospel Proclamation:** Matthew's role as an Apostle and Gospel writer foreshadows the spread of the Gospel to all nations, fulfilling Jesus' command to make disciples of all people ([[Matthew/Matthew Chapter 28|Matthew Chapter 28]], [[Acts/Acts Chapter 1|Acts Chapter 1]]). - **Kingdom of Heaven:** Through Matthew’s writing, he foreshadows the ultimate establishment of the Kingdom of Heaven, as proclaimed by Jesus in his teachings ([[Matthew/Matthew Chapter 5|Matthew Chapter 5]], [[Matthew/Matthew Chapter 13|Matthew Chapter 13]]). ### Tags - #themes - #symbolism - #typology - #foreshadowing - #transformation - #redemption - #discipleship - #faithInAction ## Connections: Matthew (Levi) ### Parallel Figures - **Paul (Saul):** Like Matthew, Paul experienced a radical transformation from a different profession to become a follower of Jesus. Matthew left his job as a tax collector to follow Christ ([[Matthew/Matthew Chapter 9|Matthew Chapter 9]]), while Paul was a Pharisee who became an apostle after encountering Jesus ([[Acts/Acts Chapter 9|Acts Chapter 9]]). - **Zacchaeus:** Both Matthew and Zacchaeus were tax collectors who encountered Jesus and experienced transformation ([[Luke/Luke Chapter 19|Luke Chapter 19]]). ### Foreshadowing/Typology - **Christ's Acceptance of Sinners:** Matthew’s call and subsequent following of Jesus highlights Jesus’ mission to call sinners to repentance and acceptance, prefiguring the inclusive nature of the Gospel ([[Matthew/Matthew Chapter 9|Matthew Chapter 9]], [[Luke/Luke Chapter 5|Luke Chapter 5]]). ### Cultural/Historical Context - **Roman Tax System:** Matthew, as a tax collector, was part of a system often despised by the Jewish people due to its associations with Roman oppression and corruption ([[Luke/Luke Chapter 5|Luke Chapter 5]]). His decision to follow Jesus reflects a departure from this societal role. - **Gospel Authorship:** The Gospel attributed to Matthew provides a unique perspective as it is traditionally believed to be written by a former tax collector, offering insights into the teachings of Jesus and fulfilling Old Testament prophecies ([[Matthew/Matthew Chapter 1|Matthew Chapter 1]]). ### Tags - #parallel-figures - #foreshadowing-Christ - #historical-context - #transformation - #gospel-authorship - #tax-collector ## Legacy: Matthew (Levi) ### Impact on Israel/Church - **Apostolic Witness:** As one of the twelve apostles, Matthew played a critical role in spreading the gospel to the Jewish people and beyond. His background as a tax collector transformed into a powerful testimony of redemption and grace, exemplifying Jesus' mission to seek and save the lost ([[Matthew/Matthew Chapter 9|Matthew Chapter 9]], [[Mark/Mark Chapter 2|Mark Chapter 2]], [[Luke/Luke Chapter 5|Luke Chapter 5]]). - **Author of the Gospel:** The Gospel of Matthew is pivotal in connecting the Old Testament prophecies to the life and ministry of Jesus, emphasizing His role as the Messiah and King of Israel. This work remains foundational for the Church’s understanding of Jesus' fulfillment of the Law and Prophets ([[Matthew/Matthew Chapter 1|Matthew Chapter 1]], [[Matthew/Matthew Chapter 5|Matthew Chapter 5]]). ### Mentions in Later Scripture - **Listed Among the Apostles:** Matthew is included in the lists of the apostles in the Synoptic Gospels and Acts, highlighting his place within the foundational leadership of the early church ([[Matthew/Matthew Chapter 10|Matthew Chapter 10]], [[Mark/Mark Chapter 3|Mark Chapter 3]], [[Luke/Luke Chapter 6|Luke Chapter 6]], [[Acts/Acts Chapter 1|Acts Chapter 1]]). - **Associated with the Early Church:** His presence in the upper room after Jesus’ ascension underscores his continued commitment to the early Christian community ([[Acts/Acts Chapter 1|Acts Chapter 1]]). ### Spiritual Lessons - **Transformation and Calling:** Matthew’s story exemplifies how Jesus calls individuals from diverse and often despised backgrounds to follow Him and be transformed for divine purposes. His life encourages believers to embrace their calling regardless of past sins or societal status ([[Matthew/Matthew Chapter 9|Matthew Chapter 9]], [[Luke/Luke Chapter 5|Luke Chapter 5]]). - **Faithfulness in Mission:** Through his gospel, Matthew demonstrates the importance of faithfully recording and preserving the teachings and works of Jesus, serving as a model for discipleship and witness. ### Modern Applications - Matthew’s legacy continues to inspire believers to look beyond societal labels and recognize the potential for transformation in every person. His gospel is frequently used in teaching about the fulfillment of prophecy and the Kingdom of God, emphasizing the continuity between the Old and New Testaments. - His example encourages Christians to share their testimonies and to diligently study and communicate God’s Word to others. ### Tags - #legacy - #impact-on-israel - #church-history - #spiritual-lessons - #apostolic-mission - #redemption-and-grace - #gospel-author ## Geography: Matthew (Levi) ### Significant Locations - **Capernaum:** Matthew's hometown and place of his calling by Jesus. As a tax collector, he was situated in this thriving city by the Sea of Galilee, where Jesus performed many miracles and teachings ([[Matthew/Matthew Chapter 9|Matthew Chapter 9]], [[Mark/Mark Chapter 2|Mark Chapter 2]], [[Luke/Luke Chapter 5|Luke Chapter 5]]). - **Galilee:** The broader region where Capernaum is located and where Matthew spent much of his time following Jesus. Galilee was a central area for Jesus' ministry ([[Matthew/Matthew Chapter 4|Matthew Chapter 4]]). - **Jerusalem:** Although not directly linked to Matthew's calling, Jerusalem is significant as a center of Jewish religious life and where Matthew would have likely traveled with Jesus during His ministry, leading up to the crucifixion and resurrection ([[Acts/Acts Chapter 1|Acts Chapter 1]]). ### Travel and Movement - **From Capernaum to Following Jesus:** Matthew left his tax booth in Capernaum when Jesus called him to follow as a disciple. This marked a significant life change, moving from a fixed location to traveling with Jesus and the other disciples ([[Matthew/Matthew Chapter 9|Matthew Chapter 9]], [[Mark/Mark Chapter 2|Mark Chapter 2]], [[Luke/Luke Chapter 5|Luke Chapter 5]]). - **Journey with Jesus Throughout Galilee:** As one of the Twelve Apostles, Matthew traveled extensively with Jesus throughout Galilee, witnessing and recording His teachings and miracles ([[Matthew/Matthew Chapter 15|Matthew Chapter 15]], [[Mark/Mark Chapter 6|Mark Chapter 6]]). - **To Jerusalem and Beyond:** After Jesus' resurrection, Matthew was present in Jerusalem, where he received the Great Commission alongside the other apostles ([[Matthew/Matthew Chapter 28|Matthew Chapter 28]], [[Acts/Acts Chapter 1|Acts Chapter 1]]). ### Historical/Spiritual Context - **Capernaum’s Role:** As a center of Jesus' ministry, Capernaum was the site of many healings and teachings, making it a significant location for the spread of the Gospel. Matthew's calling from this place signifies a transformation from a life of worldly occupation to one of spiritual purpose ([[Matthew/Matthew Chapter 9|Matthew Chapter 9]]). - **Galilee’s Importance:** Known as "Galilee of the Gentiles," it symbolizes the extension of Jesus' ministry beyond Jewish boundaries, reflecting Matthew's role in recording the Gospel for a diverse audience ([[Matthew/Matthew Chapter 4|Matthew Chapter 4]]). - **Jerusalem’s Significance:** As the site of the crucifixion and resurrection, Jerusalem is pivotal in Christian theology, marking the fulfillment of prophecies and the foundation of the Church, where Matthew played a part in spreading the Gospel ([[Acts/Acts Chapter 2|Acts Chapter 2]]). ### Tags - #geography - #locations-capernaum - #locations-galilee - #locations-jerusalem - #travel - #calling-of-disciples - #apostolic-ministry ## Additional Resources: Matthew (Levi) ### Cross-Referenced Scripture - **Call of Matthew:** Parallel accounts of Matthew’s calling from tax collection ([[Matthew/Matthew Chapter 9|Matthew Chapter 9]], [[Mark/Mark Chapter 2|Mark Chapter 2]], [[Luke/Luke Chapter 5|Luke Chapter 5]]). - **List of Apostles:** Inclusion in the list of the Twelve Apostles ([[Matthew/Matthew Chapter 10|Matthew Chapter 10]], [[Mark/Mark Chapter 3|Mark Chapter 3]], [[Luke/Luke Chapter 6|Luke Chapter 6]], [[Acts/Acts Chapter 1|Acts Chapter 1]]). - **Feast at Matthew's House:** Jesus dining with tax collectors and sinners ([[Matthew/Matthew Chapter 9|Matthew Chapter 9]], [[Mark/Mark Chapter 2|Mark Chapter 2]], [[Luke/Luke Chapter 5|Luke Chapter 5]]). ### Genealogical References - **No specific genealogical data** is provided for Matthew in Scripture, focusing instead on his role as an apostle and evangelist. ### Maps and Geographic References - **Capernaum:** Suggested mapping of Capernaum where Matthew was called from his tax booth ([[Matthew/Matthew Chapter 9|Matthew Chapter 9]], [[Mark/Mark Chapter 2|Mark Chapter 2]]). ### Recommended Bible Study Passages - **Discipleship and Evangelism:** [[Matthew/Matthew Chapter 9|Matthew Chapter 9]], [[Luke/Luke Chapter 5|Luke Chapter 5]]. - **Life as an Apostle:** [[Matthew/Matthew Chapter 10|Matthew Chapter 10]], [[Acts/Acts Chapter 1|Acts Chapter 1]]. ### Tags - #additional-resources - #cross-references - #apostle - #evangelism - #discipleship - #maps