Ever wondered about the man behind the pen of the first Gospel? Matthew the Apostle, also known as Levi, holds a fascinating spot in history, not just as one of the twelve apostles but as a figure who bridged the gap between tax collector and Gospel writer. What makes Matthew so intriguing? From his controversial profession to his profound impact on Christian literature, there's a wealth of stories and lessons nestled within his life's journey. Diving into the best facts about Matthew isn't just a walk through biblical times; it's uncovering the layers of a man who saw the world from both sides of the coin – a sinner turned saint. Ready to get to know Matthew like never before? Let's peel back the pages of history and discover the untold tales of this revered apostle.
Who Was Matthew The Apostle?
Matthew the Apostle, also known as Saint Matthew, holds a significant place in Christian tradition as one of the twelve apostles of Jesus Christ. Before his calling to follow Jesus, he worked as a tax collector, a profession looked down upon by society at the time. His transformation from a tax collector to a devoted follower of Christ is a powerful story of redemption and faith.
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Matthew's original name was Levi before he became a follower of Jesus. This name change signifies his new life and mission.
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He is credited with writing the Gospel of Matthew, one of the four canonical gospels in the New Testament. This gospel provides a unique perspective on Jesus' life, teachings, and resurrection.
Matthew's Role Among The Apostles
As an apostle, Matthew had a unique role. His background as a tax collector gave him skills in record-keeping and writing, which were invaluable in documenting the life and teachings of Jesus.
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Matthew was known for his strong faith and commitment to spreading the message of Jesus. Despite his past, he was accepted by Jesus, showing that forgiveness and transformation are possible for everyone.
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He is often depicted with a symbol of a winged man in art, representing his authorship of the Gospel and his human perspective on Jesus' life.
The Gospel According To Matthew
The Gospel of Matthew is a cornerstone of the New Testament, providing detailed accounts of Jesus' birth, ministry, death, and resurrection.
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This gospel begins with a genealogy of Jesus, tracing his lineage back to Abraham, which emphasizes Jesus' role as the Messiah in Jewish tradition.
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The Sermon on the Mount, including the Beatitudes, is a key teaching found in Matthew's Gospel. It outlines the core principles of Christian ethics and morality.
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Matthew's Gospel is the only one that mentions the Church by name, highlighting its importance in the early Christian community.
Matthew's Legacy And Feast Day
Matthew's influence extends beyond the biblical texts, impacting Christian theology, art, and culture throughout centuries.
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Saint Matthew is the patron saint of accountants, bankers, and tax collectors, reflecting his past profession and his role in spreading the Gospel.
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His feast day is celebrated on September 21st in the Western Christian tradition and on November 16th in the Eastern Orthodox Church.
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Relics believed to be of Saint Matthew are held in the cathedral of Salerno, Italy, making it a significant pilgrimage site for Christians.
Interesting Facts About Matthew
Beyond his biblical contributions, several interesting facts about Matthew the Apostle continue to fascinate scholars and believers alike.
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Despite his significant role, Matthew is one of the less frequently mentioned apostles in the New Testament outside of his own gospel.
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The Gospel of Matthew was originally written in Greek, although Matthew himself would have been fluent in Aramaic and possibly Hebrew.
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Matthew's symbol, the winged man, is part of the Tetramorph, which represents the four evangelists in Christian art. This symbolism connects human nature to the divine, reflecting the incarnation of Christ.
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The calling of Matthew is a popular subject in Christian art, famously depicted by artists like Caravaggio, who captured the moment Jesus called Matthew to follow him.
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Tax collectors were despised in Jewish society for their role in collecting taxes for the Roman occupiers. Matthew's transformation from a tax collector to an apostle is a testament to the inclusive message of Jesus' ministry.
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Matthew's Gospel is especially important for Jewish-Christian dialogue, as it bridges the Old and New Testaments by showing how Jesus fulfilled Old Testament prophecies.
A Final Glimpse at Matthew's Legacy
Matthew the Apostle, once a tax collector, transformed his life to follow Jesus, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire. His story, from collecting taxes to becoming one of the twelve apostles, highlights a journey of redemption and faith. Through the Gospel of Matthew, he offers us a unique perspective on Jesus' teachings, emphasizing Jesus as the Messiah and King. His contributions don't just stop at his written works; they extend to how he shaped early Christian thought and how his teachings continue to resonate with believers today. Remember, Matthew's life reminds us that change is possible, and past actions don't define our future. His story is a testament to the power of faith and the impact one individual can have on the world. Let's carry forward the lessons learned from Matthew, embracing change and holding faith at the core of our actions.
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