Saint Matthew: The Evangelist and Apostle of Jesus
Saint Matthew, also known as Levi, was one of the twelve apostles chosen by Jesus Christ. He is revered as the author of the Gospel according to Matthew, one of the four canonical gospels in the New Testament of the Christian Bible. In this blog post, we will explore the life and significance of Saint Matthew, why he is remembered, and delve into some frequently asked questions related to his legacy.
The Life of Saint Matthew
Saint Matthew was born in Capernaum, a town located in modern-day Israel, during the 1st century AD. Prior to becoming an apostle, he served as a tax collector for the Roman Empire. Tax collectors were often despised by their fellow Jews for collaborating with the occupying Romans and collecting excessive amounts of taxes. It was during his occupation as a tax collector that Jesus called him to follow him and become one of his disciples.
After accepting Jesus' call, Saint Matthew hosted a great feast at his house, inviting fellow tax collectors and sinners along with Jesus and his other disciples. This event, known as the "Feast of Matthew," is commemorated by Christians as a testament to God's ability to transform lives.
As an apostle of Jesus, Saint Matthew traveled alongside him during his ministry, witnessing numerous miracles and teachings. He played an integral role in spreading the teachings of Jesus and documenting his life through the gospel attributed to him.
Saint Matthew in the Gospel
The Gospel according to Matthew, also known as the Book of Matthew, is one of the four accounts of the life, teachings, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Written in Greek, the Gospel provides valuable insights into the life and ministry of Jesus.
Saint Matthew highlights Jesus' lineage, demonstrating his fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies regarding the Messiah. The Gospel emphasizes Jesus as the Son of David and the Son of Abraham. It also contains the famous Sermon on the Mount, where Jesus delivers teachings on various aspects of life and morality.
A significant theme in Saint Matthew's Gospel is the establishment of the Kingdom of Heaven. Jesus teaches his disciples through parables, miracles, and interactions with people from all walks of life. The Gospel according to Matthew portrays Jesus as the long-awaited Messiah who brings salvation and the reign of God's Kingdom on earth.
Saint Matthew's Legacy
Saint Matthew's contribution as an evangelist and apostle greatly influenced the early Christian community. His Gospel played a vital role in shaping Christian doctrine and spreading the teachings of Jesus to both Jewish and Gentile believers.
As the patron saint of accountants, bankers, and tax collectors, Saint Matthew's life serves as a reminder of the grace and transformative power of God. He is celebrated for his conversion from an occupation despised by society to becoming an instrument of God's love and mercy.
Saint Matthew's example encourages believers to realize that no one is beyond redemption and that God's call can transform lives regardless of one's past or occupation. His feast day, celebrated on September 21st, is an opportunity for Christians to reflect on this message and seek forgiveness and renewal in their own lives.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Q: Did Saint Matthew write the Gospel?
A: While the Gospel according to Matthew is traditionally attributed to Saint Matthew, scholars debate the exact authorship. Some suggest it was written by a different disciple or a later follower of Jesus using Matthew's teachings.
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Q: What happened to Saint Matthew after Jesus' death?
A: The exact details of Saint Matthew's life after Jesus' death are unclear. According to tradition, he preached the Gospel in various regions, including Ethiopia, Persia, and Macedonia, before being martyred for his faith.
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Q: What can we learn from Saint Matthew's life?
A: Saint Matthew's life teaches us the power of forgiveness, redemption, and the transformative potential of encountering Jesus. It encourages us to embrace opportunities for renewal and to extend God's love and mercy to others.
In conclusion, Saint Matthew is known as the apostle and evangelist who authored the Gospel according to Matthew. His story inspires countless believers to embrace God's grace and transform their lives through faith, no matter their past or occupation. So let us reflect on Saint Matthew's teachings and seek a deeper understanding of Jesus' life and message through his Gospel.