Matthew the Tax Collector

Day 13, Feb 17th 2024

Topic: Matthew the Tax Collector

Text:  Mat 9:9; Luke 5: 29-32

Introduction- Matthew was one of the twelve apostles chosen by Jesus Christ. As an eyewitness to the Savior, Matthew recorded a detailed account of Jesus’ life, the story of his birth, his message, and his many deeds in the Gospel of Matthew. Prior to his encounter with Christ, Matthew was a tax collector in Capernaum, collecting taxes on behalf of the Roman government. Today we will take a look at some lessons we can glean from the life of Matthew. Be blessed.

Life Lessons and Applications

1. Transformation through Grace: Matthew was a tax collector, a profession despised by his fellow Jews as collaborators with the Roman oppressors. Despite his past, Jesus called Matthew to be one of his disciples. This demonstrates that no one is beyond redemption, and grace is available to all who seek it.
2. Repentance and Forgiveness: Matthew’s decision to follow Jesus indicates a willingness to turn away from his former way of life and seek forgiveness for any wrongdoing. This teaches us the importance of repentance and the boundless nature of God’s forgiveness.
3. Service and Sacrifice – He left all and immediately followed Christ: Like the other disciples, Matthew left behind his livelihood and followed Jesus. This demonstrates the principle of sacrificial service in discipleship, prioritizing spiritual growth and the Kingdom of God over worldly pursuits.
4. Hospitality and Inclusivity: After his call, Matthew invited Jesus and his disciples to a banquet at his house, where he also invited fellow tax collectors and “sinners”. This act reflects the inclusive nature of Jesus’ ministry and teaches us to show hospitality and acceptance to all, regardless of their backgrounds or social status.
5. Evangelism: By inviting “sinners” to the banquet, Matthew created an opportunity for many to hear from the Master and turn from their sinful ways.
6. Love Sinners rather than Judging them: Pharisees were so proud and arrogant and were fond of judging and condemning people. In their view, Jesus should instead be having a banquet with upright and respectable people like them, not ‘sinners’. God does not want us to act this way. He wants us to love people just like He loves them.
7. Faithfulness Despite Circumstances: Despite facing societal rejection and criticism due to his profession, Matthew remained faithful to Jesus and his teachings. This teaches us the importance of standing firm in our faith, even when faced with opposition or adversity.

Lesson of the Day

In Matthew we see the life-transforming power of the call of Jesus Christ, from a lucrative sinful life to leaving it all for Christ and publishing the gospel. His life exemplified redemption, forgiveness, hospitality, service, evangelism, and faithfulness. Let us heed the call of the Lord always.

Complied by: Olaolu Ayodeji