Matthew: The Tax Collector Turned Disciple

 

Matthew: Tax Collector Turned Disciple

The story of Matthew, one of Jesus’ twelve disciples, is a profound reminder that no one is beyond the reach of God’s grace. Known first as a tax collector—an outcast among his own people—Matthew’s life exemplifies transformation, obedience, and the quiet power of a simple “yes” to Jesus. His journey from a reviled profession to writing one of the four Gospels offers a compelling picture of what it means to be a true servant of God.

Matthew’s Life Before Jesus:

Matthew, also called Levi, was a tax collector in Capernaum. In the eyes of his fellow Jews, tax collectors were traitors—collaborators with the Roman Empire who were known for exploiting their own people for personal gain. Because of this, they were not only disliked but considered ritually unclean and spiritually corrupt.

Despite his status and wealth, Matthew likely lived a life of social isolation. Though surrounded by coins and ledgers, he was cut off from his own community. He would have been familiar with scorn, distrust, and rejection.

Yet Jesus saw him.

The Call of Matthew:

In Matthew 9:9, we find a brief but powerful moment: “As Jesus went on from there, he saw a man named Matthew sitting at the tax collector’s booth. ‘Follow me,’ he told him, and Matthew got up and followed him.”

That’s it. No questions. No hesitation. Just obedience.

Jesus didn’t ask Matthew to clean up first. He didn’t question his past. He simply offered an invitation—and Matthew responded with his whole life.

This moment speaks volumes about the nature of Jesus’ ministry. He chose people the world overlooked. He invited the outcasts. He called those others had written off. And He turned them into disciples.

A Changed Life:

Matthew left behind more than his job. He left behind the identity others had placed on him.
His first act as a follower of Jesus was to open his home and throw a banquet—not for the religious elite, but for other tax collectors and sinners (Luke 5:29). Matthew understood what many still struggle with today: when grace finds you, you invite others in.

The Pharisees were quick to criticize Jesus for associating with such people, but Jesus responded: “It is not the healthy who need a doctor, but the sick… For I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners.” (Matthew 9:12-13)

Matthew’s conversion reminds us that salvation is not based on status, merit, or worthiness. It's based on Jesus’ call and our willingness to follow.

Matthew’s Gospel:

Matthew is traditionally credited as the author of the Gospel that bears his name. Writing primarily for a Jewish audience, Matthew emphasized Jesus as the long-awaited Messiah, fulfilling Old Testament prophecy.

His Gospel contains some of the most foundational teachings of the Christian faith, including: 

• The Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5–7)
• The Great Commission (Matthew 28:19-20)
• Parables, miracles, and the genealogy that traces Jesus’ royal lineage

It’s remarkable that the man once known for numbers and taxes became the one who recorded the words of the Savior for generations to come.

Explore Servants of God:

Read inspiring accounts of prophets, disciples, and faithful leaders on our Servants of God page.