What Is St Matthew Known For

Who is Saint Matthew and What is He Known For?

Saint Matthew, also known as Levi, was one of the twelve apostles of Jesus Christ. He is widely recognized as the author of the Gospel of Matthew, one of the four canonical gospels found in the New Testament of the Bible. Matthew was a tax collector before Jesus called him to be his disciple, and his gospel reflects his firsthand experiences with Jesus and his teachings.

The Gospel of Matthew

The Gospel of Matthew is an essential part of the Christian scriptures, providing an account of the life, ministry, teachings, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. It is written in a narrative style and focuses on presenting Jesus as the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies, emphasizing his role as the Messiah and the rightful king of the Jews.

Matthew's gospel is structured around five major discourses of Jesus, which include the Sermon on the Mount, instructions to the disciples, parables, teachings on the church, and the end times. These teachings have had a profound influence on the development of Christian theology and ethics throughout history.

Tax Collector Turned Disciple

Before encountering Jesus, Matthew worked as a tax collector in Capernaum, where he would collect taxes on behalf of the Roman authorities. Tax collectors were generally despised by society as they were seen as collaborators with the occupying Roman forces and were known for their corruption and greed. However, Jesus saw something more in Matthew and called him to follow him.

Matthew's decision to leave his profession and become a disciple of Jesus demonstrates the transformative power of his encounter with Christ. It symbolizes the possibility of redemption and renewal for all, regardless of their past mistakes or societal status. Through his act of discipleship, Matthew became an example of how faith and devotion can lead to a radical change in one's life.

Saint Matthew's Symbol and Feast Day

Saint Matthew is often symbolized by a winged man, which represents his status as an evangelist and the divine inspiration of his gospel. In art and religious iconography, he is commonly depicted with an angel or as an angelic figure himself. His feast day is celebrated on September 21st by various Christian denominations.

Frequently Asked Questions about Saint Matthew

1. Was Saint Matthew one of Jesus' twelve apostles?

Yes, Saint Matthew was indeed one of the twelve apostles chosen by Jesus to spread his teachings and carry on his mission.

2. What is the main theme of the Gospel of Matthew?

The main theme of the Gospel of Matthew is to present Jesus as the Messiah and the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies.

3. Why was Matthew's occupation as a tax collector significant?

Matthew's occupation as a tax collector was significant because it highlighted Jesus' willingness to call and accept those who were considered outcasts and sinners by society.

4. What can we learn from Saint Matthew's transformation?

Saint Matthew's transformation teaches us that no one is beyond redemption or the possibility of a fresh start. It reminds us of the power of faith and the transformative effect of encountering Jesus.

About me

Hello,My name is Aparna Patel,I’m a Travel Blogger and Photographer who travel the world full-time with my hubby.I like to share my travel experience.

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