"Jesus Calls Matthew: A Saddleback Church Story"

In a poignant moment captured in the New Testament, Jesus Christ calls Matthew, a tax collector, to follow Him, marking a significant turning point in Matthew's life and the spread of Christianity. This event, recounted in the Gospel of Matthew, holds profound spiritual significance and has inspired countless lives for centuries. Let's delve into this transformative encounter, exploring its context, Matthew's response, and its relevance today.

Jesus' Call to Matthew: A Historical Context

Set against the backdrop of first-century Palestine, occupied by the Roman Empire, the story unfolds in the bustling city of Capernaum. Matthew, also known as Levi, was a tax collector, a profession reviled by Jews due to its association with Roman oppression. He was likely well-off, as tax collectors often profited from their positions, but he was also isolated, shunned by his fellow Jews.

Jesus, in His earthly ministry, was known for His radical approach to religion. He associated with outcasts, sinners, and tax collectors, challenging the religious establishment's exclusivity. It was into this context that He called Matthew, an act that would forever change the course of Matthew's life and the early Christian church.

Jesus' Invitation: "Follow Me"

As Jesus walked by the tax booth where Matthew was working, He paused and said, "Follow me" (Matthew 9:9, NIV). This simple, yet profound, invitation was not a request but a command, a call to discipleship. Jesus did not ask Matthew to clean up his life first or wait for a more convenient time. Instead, He called him immediately, demonstrating God's grace and transformative power.

Jesus' call was not just an invitation to leave a particular job or lifestyle but a summons to a new way of life. It was an offer to become a disciple, a learner, and a follower of Jesus. This call was not unique to Matthew; it is extended to all who believe in Jesus Christ today.

Matthew's Response: Leaving Everything Behind

Matthew's response was immediate and decisive. He got up, left his tax booth, and followed Jesus (Matthew 9:9). This action signified his complete commitment to his new Master. He left behind his old life, his livelihood, and his social status to follow Jesus.

Matthew's response is a testament to the power of Jesus' call. It illustrates the transformative nature of Jesus' invitation, which can lead even the most unlikely individuals to leave their old lives behind and follow Him.

Matthew: Apostle and Evangelist

Matthew's call was not just a personal transformation but also the beginning of his apostolic ministry. He became one of the twelve apostles, a witness to Jesus' life, death, and resurrection. He was also the author of the first Gospel in the New Testament, sharing the good news of Jesus Christ with the world.

Matthew's call and response serve as an example for all who claim to follow Jesus today. It reminds us that discipleship involves leaving behind our old lives and committing ourselves fully to Jesus. It also underscores the importance of sharing our faith with others, as Matthew did through his Gospel.

Jesus Calls: Then and Now

The story of Jesus calling Matthew is not just a historical account; it is a living, relevant message for today. Jesus continues to call individuals to follow Him, to leave behind their old lives and commit to Him. This call is extended to all, regardless of their background or past.

Just as Matthew was called to follow Jesus, so are we. This call is not just an invitation to accept certain beliefs or join a particular church. It is a summons to a new way of life, a life characterized by love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control (Galatians 5:22-23).

If you have not yet responded to Jesus' call, He is calling you today. He is inviting you to leave behind your old life and follow Him. He is offering you a new life, a life filled with purpose, meaning, and eternal significance.