The call of Matthew, a once despised tax collector, to become an apostle of Jesus Christ, stands as a beacon of hope and transformation. It is a vivid illustration of the inclusive nature of Jesus' ministry and the profound impact of His love and forgiveness. Through the lens of Matthew's life and the timeless wisdom of Scripture, we gain insight into the very nature of Christ Himself, as well as the overarching themes of repentance, salvation, and the Christian lifestyle. This article delves into the heart of these biblical truths, examining their significance in our lives and the enduring message of hope they offer to all who seek understanding.
Table of Contents
The Calling of Matthew
Before Matthew became a follower of Christ, he was a tax collector in Capernaum, an occupation that earned him the scorn of his fellow Jews. Yet, it was from the seat of his tax office that Jesus called him, saying, 'Follow me.' (Matthew 9:9) This moment marks a profound pivot in Matthew's life, as he leaves behind his old ways and immediately obeys Jesus' call. His story is a compelling example of Jesus' willingness to invite even the most reviled members of society into His inner circle, demonstrating that societal status holds no weight in the kingdom of God. The impact of Matthew's conversion is further highlighted by his authorship of the first Gospel, which emphasizes the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies and presents Jesus as the long-awaited Messiah, tracing His lineage back to both Abraham and David (Matthew 1:1-17).
The Divinity and Eternal Nature of Jesus
The divine nature of Jesus Christ is a cornerstone of Christian doctrine. The Gospel of John introduces us to Jesus as the eternal Word, stating, 'In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.' (John 1:1) This profound declaration is echoed when John identifies 'the Word' as Jesus, who 'became flesh and dwelt among us' (John 1:14), thereby affirming Jesus as God incarnate. Jesus Himself made bold claims about His divine nature, such as when He told the Pharisees, 'Before Abraham was, I am,' (John 8:58) invoking the sacred name of God revealed to Moses in Exodus 3:14. The apostle Paul also affirms Jesus' creative and sustaining power in all things, visible and invisible, in Colossians 1:16-17, further underscoring His divine essence and supremacy over creation.
Marriage Between Believers and Unbelievers
Marriage is a sacred union that holds particular significance within the Christian faith, and the Scriptures provide guidance for marriages between believers and unbelievers. In his first letter to the Corinthians, Paul addresses this topic by advising the believing spouse to remain with the unbeliever if they are willing, as the believer sanctifies the marriage (1 Corinthians 7:12-14). This underscores the potential for a believing spouse to be a source of spiritual influence within the relationship. For further reflection on living a life aligned with divine truth, consider exploring biblical wisdom on Proverbs and the Kingdom of God. The union between a believer and an unbeliever becomes a testament to the power of faith and an opportunity for the light of Christ to shine within the family structure.
Christian Lifestyle and Testimony
The Christian lifestyle is marked by a commitment to living in a way that honors God, both in body and in spirit. This includes a call to sobriety and vigilance, as the apostle Peter admonishes believers to 'Be sober-minded; be watchful.' (1 Peter 5:8) Living a life of testimony means reflecting the values and teachings of Jesus in every action and decision. It is about preaching not just with words, but through a clear mind and a devoted heart, demonstrating the transformative power of the gospel. Christians are encouraged to present their bodies as 'a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God,' (Romans 12:1-2) and to abstain from practices that lead to spiritual and physical detriment, such as drunkenness (Ephesians 5:18), instead embracing the grace of God that teaches us to live self-controlled, upright, and godly lives (Titus 2:11-12).
FAQ
Q: Who is Matthew?
A: Matthew, also known as Levi, was one of the twelve apostles chosen by Jesus. Before following Jesus, he worked as a tax collector in Capernaum.
Q: What is the Gospel according to Matthew noted for?
A: The Gospel according to Matthew is noted for its emphasis on Jesus fulfilling Old Testament prophecies, presenting Jesus as the promised Messiah and tracing His genealogy to Abraham and David.
Q: Was Jesus always God according to Christian doctrine?
A: Yes, according to Christian doctrine, Jesus Christ was always God, a belief rooted in the concept of the Trinity, which holds that God exists as three persons in one essence: the Father, the Son (Jesus Christ), and the Holy Spirit.
Q: What does 1 Corinthians 7:12-14 say about marriage between believers and unbelievers?
A: 1 Corinthians 7:12-14 advises that if a believer is married to an unbeliever who consents to live with them, they should not divorce. The believing spouse can have a sanctifying effect on the unbelieving spouse and children.
