Matthew the Apostle: 15 Facts

Introduction:

Matthew the Apostle is one of the twelve disciples chosen by Jesus Christ in the New Testament. He is also known as Levi, the tax collector who was called to follow Jesus and become one of his closest companions. There are many interesting facts about Matthew the Apostle that give insight into his life, character, and significance in Christian history. In this article, we will explore 15 fascinating facts about Matthew the Apostle.

Fact 1: Early Life as a Tax Collector

Matthew, also known as Levi, was a tax collector before he was called by Jesus to be one of his disciples. Tax collectors were often seen as dishonest and greedy individuals in ancient Jewish society, making Matthew’s decision to follow Jesus even more remarkable.

Fact 2: Author of the Gospel of Matthew

Matthew is traditionally believed to be the author of the Gospel of Matthew, one of the four Gospels in the New Testament. This Gospel highlights Jesus’ teachings and miracles and serves as a valuable account of his life and ministry.

Fact 3: Feast Day

The feast day of St. Matthew is celebrated on September 21st in the liturgical calendar of the Roman Catholic Church. It is a day to honor and remember the life and contributions of Matthew the Apostle.

Fact 4: Symbolism

In Christian art and symbolism, Matthew is often represented by a winged man or angel. This depiction reflects his role as a Gospel writer and his portrayal of Jesus’ humanity in the Gospel of Matthew.

Fact 5: Martyrdom

According to tradition, Matthew the Apostle was martyred for his faith, though the exact details of his death are unclear. Some accounts suggest that he was stabbed to death with a halberd in Ethiopia, where he was carrying out missionary work.

Fact 6: Jewish Background

As a Jewish man living in the first century, Matthew would have been familiar with Jewish customs, laws, and traditions. This background likely influenced his writing in the Gospel of Matthew and his interactions with fellow Jews.

Fact 7: Call to Discipleship

When Jesus called Matthew to be his disciple, he was sitting at the tax collector’s booth. Despite his profession and reputation, Matthew responded immediately to Jesus’ invitation and left everything behind to follow him.

Fact 8: Transformation

Matthew’s encounter with Jesus led to a profound transformation in his life. As a tax collector, he was seen as an outcast and sinner, but through his relationship with Jesus, he found forgiveness, redemption, and a new purpose as a follower of Christ.

Fact 9: Role in the Early Church

After Jesus’ resurrection and ascension, Matthew played a key role in the early Christian community. He shared his experiences with Jesus, preached the Gospel, and contributed to the spread of Christianity throughout the Roman Empire.

Fact 10: Representation in Art

Throughout history, Matthew has been depicted in various works of art, including paintings, sculptures, and stained glass windows. Artists have portrayed him in different ways, capturing his role as a disciple, evangelist, and symbol of faith.

Fact 11: Patron Saint

Matthew is considered the patron saint of accountants, bankers, and tax collectors due to his background in financial administration. Those who work in financial professions often seek his intercession for guidance, wisdom, and integrity in their work.

Fact 12: Gospel Themes

The Gospel of Matthew emphasizes themes such as righteousness, mercy, and the Kingdom of God. Matthew’s unique perspective and writing style convey these messages to readers and highlight Jesus’ teachings on love, forgiveness, and eternal life.

Fact 13: Apostolic Tradition

Matthew’s status as one of the twelve apostles carries great significance in Christian tradition. His witness to Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection helped establish the early Church and inspire believers for generations to come.

Fact 14: Evangelistic Mission

Following Jesus’ command to go and make disciples of all nations, Matthew traveled to distant lands to share the Gospel message. His courage, dedication, and passion for spreading the Good News reflect his commitment to fulfilling the Great Commission.

Fact 15: Legacy of Faith

Matthew the Apostle left a lasting legacy of faith and devotion to Jesus Christ. His writings, teachings, and example continue to inspire Christians around the world to follow in his footsteps, proclaiming the truth of the Gospel and living out the values of the Kingdom of God.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Matthew the Apostle is a central figure in Christian history and a key witness to the life and ministry of Jesus Christ. His journey from tax collector to disciple, his authorship of the Gospel of Matthew, and his role in the early Church all contribute to his enduring legacy as a saint and evangelist. By reflecting on these 15 facts about Matthew the Apostle, we gain a deeper appreciation for his contributions to the Christian faith and the lasting impact of his life and teachings.