Matthew the Apostle: From Tax Collector to Gospel Witness

From Tax Collector to Gospel Witness: The Transforming Call of Christ

Table of Contents

In every generation, there are those who feel too broken, too flawed, or too far from God to ever belong in His story. If you’ve ever felt this way—wounded by your past, disqualified by shame, or skeptical of grace—then the life of Matthew the Apostle speaks directly to your heart.

He wasn’t a religious leader or spiritual giant. He wasn’t admired by his community or respected for his moral values. In fact, Matthew was despised—a tax collector for Rome, seen as a traitor by his own people. And yet, Jesus looked at him and said two simple words: “Follow Me.” That invitation changed everything.

This is the story of Matthew the Apostle—the man who left behind wealth, judgment, and sin to become a follower of Jesus and the writer of one of the most beloved Gospels in the Bible. His journey reveals the power of grace, the beauty of transformation, and the hope that no one is ever too lost to be found by Christ.

Who Was Matthew the Apostle?

Matthew the Apostle, also known as Saint Matthew, was one of the twelve original disciples chosen by Jesus Christ and is traditionally recognized as the author of the first Gospel in the New Testament—the Gospel according to Matthew. His story is a powerful narrative of unexpected grace, profound transformation, and unwavering discipleship. To understand who Matthew was is to grasp a glimpse of how the message of Jesus can reach even those considered outcasts by society.

Before meeting Jesus, Matthew was known by his Hebrew name Levi, the son of Alphaeus (Mark 2:14). He lived in Capernaum, a thriving fishing town on the northern coast of the Sea of Galilee, and worked as a publican—a tax collector under Roman authority. In first-century Jewish society, tax collectors were widely hated. They were seen as traitors who sided with the oppressive Roman regime and often enriched themselves by collecting more than was required. For the Jewish people, tax collectors were lumped together with “sinners”—those outside the bounds of acceptable religious and moral behavior (see Matthew 9:10–11). They were ritually unclean and socially despised.

Yet this very man—marginalized and rejected—was handpicked by Jesus to be His disciple. The moment is recorded simply yet powerfully in Matthew 9:9:

“As Jesus passed on from there, he saw a man called Matthew sitting at the tax booth, and he said to him, ‘Follow me.’ And he rose and followed him.”

That one verse tells a story of radical grace. Jesus did not demand repentance first. He didn’t condemn Matthew or give him conditions. Instead, He offered an invitation. And Matthew responded immediately. In an act of deep courage and surrender, he left behind his tax booth—his livelihood, his security, his wealth, and perhaps the only life he had known—to follow Christ. That decisive moment marked not just a change in profession, but a complete transformation in identity.

Matthew’s call reveals the character of Jesus and the nature of the Gospel. Jesus calls the unworthy, the broken, and the shunned. He invites sinners into fellowship, not after they’ve cleaned themselves up, but precisely when they’re still lost. In doing so, Jesus overturns human categories of worthiness. And Matthew’s life stands as a testament to that truth.

Though not much is recorded in the Bible about Matthew’s words or deeds after his calling, his most enduring contribution to Christianity is his authorship of the Gospel of Matthew. Early Church tradition holds that Matthew wrote his Gospel account for a primarily Jewish audience, presenting Jesus as the long-awaited Messiah who fulfills Old Testament prophecy. It is through this Gospel that millions have come to encounter the life, teachings, death, and resurrection of Christ.

Beyond his Gospel, Matthew is remembered for his humility and quiet faithfulness. Unlike more outspoken apostles like Peter or John, Matthew does not dominate the narrative. He is not known for dramatic speeches or bold confrontations. Instead, he represents the many followers of Jesus whose service is steady and sincere, whose voices may be few but whose impact is lasting.

In Church history and Christian art, Matthew has been venerated as a saint, a symbol of spiritual transformation, and a witness to the power of Christ’s calling. He is often depicted with a book or scroll (representing his Gospel), and with a winged man or angel—his traditional symbol among the four evangelists—pointing to his emphasis on Jesus’ humanity.

So who was Matthew the Apostle?

He was a man once despised for his greed, now honored for his Gospel.
He was once seated at a table of worldly wealth, now remembered at the table of the Lord.
He was a sinner called by name, and a saint who answered.

And in his story, we see ourselves—not perfect, but called. Not righteous, but redeemed.
Not famous in the eyes of the world, but chosen by the grace of God.

Early Life of Matthew: Tax Collector Turned Disciple

To truly appreciate the transformation of Matthew the Apostle, we must look closely at the world he inhabited before his encounter with Jesus—a world defined by tension, suspicion, and betrayal.

Matthew, also known by his Hebrew name Levi, was the son of a man named Alphaeus (Mark 2:14). He lived and worked in Capernaum, a bustling town on the northwestern shore of the Sea of Galilee. At the time, Capernaum was a hub of commerce and a key stop on the trade routes that connected different parts of the Roman Empire. With merchants and travelers constantly passing through, it became an ideal location for collecting taxes—especially customs duties on goods and tariffs on trade.

Matthew’s profession was that of a publican—a tax collector. But this title came with far more than just economic implications. In first-century Jewish society, tax collectors were seen as the embodiment of corruption and betrayal. Employed by the occupying Roman government, they were often fellow Jews who collected taxes on behalf of the empire that oppressed their people. To add insult to injury, many tax collectors were known to inflate tax rates and pocket the excess for themselves.

This meant that Matthew was not only perceived as unclean according to Jewish religious laws (due to his constant contact with Gentiles and his participation in Roman systems), but also morally despised as a man who had sold out his people for personal gain.

To be a tax collector was to be hated, excluded, and cut off from spiritual community. He was forbidden from entering the synagogue. He was considered a liar and thief by default. He could not serve as a witness in Jewish legal proceedings. His word was not to be trusted. In the eyes of the religious and social elite, Matthew was lumped together with prostitutes, drunkards, and other “notorious sinners.”

And yet—this was the man Jesus chose.

One day, as Matthew sat at his tax booth—perhaps calculating profits, counting coins, or watching people avoid eye contact—Jesus walked by. The moment is recorded succinctly, but its impact is seismic:

“As Jesus passed on from there, he saw a man called Matthew sitting at the tax booth, and he said to him, ‘Follow me.’ And he rose and followed him.”
— Matthew 9:9

There was no sermon. No theological argument. No background check or religious test. Just two words: “Follow Me.”

And incredibly, Matthew did.

He got up. He left his booth. He walked away from a lucrative, comfortable life—likely knowing he could never return. He exchanged security for uncertainty, wealth for wandering, and public rejection for a higher calling.

This single act of surrender is one of the clearest pictures in Scripture of what it means to follow Jesus. Matthew’s decision was immediate. It was complete. And it was costly.

What Did Matthew Leave Behind?

It’s worth noting the depth of sacrifice that Matthew made. Other disciples, like Peter and John, could return to fishing if things didn’t work out. But once Matthew left his post as a tax collector, he was finished in that world. He had burned his bridges behind him. There was no going back.

He gave up:

Wealth and material security: Tax collectors were among the richest men in their communities.
Power and influence: Though hated, they still wielded authority on behalf of Rome.
Stability and future planning: The Roman system offered him a career. Jesus offered him a cross.

Why would anyone walk away from so much?

Because Matthew saw something in Jesus that he couldn’t find in Rome or in riches: truth, grace, authority, and love.

This moment reveals the magnetic pull of Jesus’ presence. It also demonstrates the readiness of Matthew’s heart to receive something greater. While others looked at him and saw greed and guilt, Jesus saw a soul ready to be redeemed.

Matthew’s First Act as a Disciple: A Feast of Grace

Luke’s account of Matthew’s calling gives us an even fuller picture:

“And Levi made him a great feast in his house, and there was a large company of tax collectors and others reclining at table with them.”
— Luke 5:29

What did Matthew do after leaving everything to follow Jesus? He threw a party.

But this wasn’t a celebration of his own success—it was a celebration of grace. Matthew invited Jesus into his home, and he also invited other tax collectors and “sinners”—people like him, people rejected by religion but now welcomed by the Son of God.

It was a bold and beautiful move. Matthew was not ashamed of his past, nor did he isolate himself in spiritual pride. Instead, he immediately became a bridge between Jesus and others who needed mercy.

But the religious leaders didn’t approve. They grumbled and accused Jesus of eating with sinners. In response, Jesus gave one of the most profound statements in all of Scripture:

“Those who are well have no need of a physician, but those who are sick. I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance.”
— Luke 5:31–32

Matthew’s feast becomes the first scene of evangelism. It’s where Jesus displays His mission: to seek and save the lost, to enter the homes and hearts of those cast aside, and to offer life to those dead in sin.

The story of Matthew the Apostle doesn’t begin with success or holiness. It begins with compromise, exclusion, and shame. But it doesn’t end there.

Because of Jesus, Matthew’s story becomes one of purpose, redemption, and calling. From a tax booth of greed to a Gospel of grace—from a man collecting coins to a man writing about the King of Kings—his life shows us that no one is ever too far from God to be called by name.

Would you leave everything to follow Him?

Just like Matthew, that invitation still stands.

Matthew Among the Twelve Apostles

After answering Jesus’ call, Matthew was not only welcomed into the broader group of disciples, but was also appointed as one of the Twelve Apostles—the foundational leaders of the early Christian Church. This was no small role. These twelve men were chosen not merely to follow Jesus, but to be trained, empowered, and eventually sent out as His official witnesses, to proclaim the coming of the Kingdom of God.

Matthew’s inclusion in this group is remarkable, especially when considered in light of his past. His fellow apostles came from diverse backgrounds—fishermen, zealots, and ordinary laborers—but none were more despised in society than a tax collector. Yet Jesus intentionally placed Matthew among the twelve, not as an afterthought or a charity case, but as a vital piece of His redemptive plan. It was a visible statement that the Gospel is for all people, including those the world deems unworthy.

Listed Among the Chosen

Matthew is named in all four listings of the Twelve Apostles in the New Testament:

Matthew 10:2–4
Mark 3:16–19
Luke 6:14–16
Acts 1:13

In these lists, Matthew is often paired with Thomas, and sometimes simply referred to as “Matthew the tax collector.” This unique description, which is not applied to the others, serves as a constant reminder of God’s transforming power. Rather than hiding his former occupation, the Gospel writers highlight it—possibly to underscore the radical grace of Christ.

By choosing Matthew and keeping his label visible, Jesus was redefining what it meant to be chosen. He wasn’t building His Church on the backs of the religious elite, but on the shoulders of those humbled by grace.

Living and Working Among the Twelve

Though the Gospels do not record many individual actions or words from Matthew during Jesus’ three-year ministry, his silent presence is not insignificant. In a group that included passionate personalities like Peter, skeptical minds like Thomas, and political opposites like Simon the Zealot, Matthew’s ability to live, serve, and learn alongside such a diverse and often conflicted group speaks to his humility and obedience.

One of the most striking pairings within the Apostolic band is Simon the Zealot and Matthew the tax collector. Simon belonged to a political movement that violently opposed Roman occupation. Matthew, on the other hand, had cooperated with that very system. Under normal circumstances, they would have been enemies—one seeking revolution, the other seen as a collaborator. Yet in Christ, they sat at the same table.

This stunning unity illustrates the power of the Gospel to reconcile enemies and unite opposites. The Twelve Apostles were not united by politics, profession, or personality. They were united by Jesus Christ, who broke down every dividing wall and called them to a greater Kingdom.

Matthew, in this context, becomes an example of quiet transformation and faithful community. He may not have walked on water like Peter or leaned on Jesus’ chest like John, but he walked the same path, heard the same teachings, and witnessed the same miracles. His discipleship was no less real.

A Witness of the Crucifixion and Resurrection

While Matthew’s presence during certain key events is not individually noted, it is understood that he, like the other Apostles, was a witness to the most crucial events in human history—the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ.

He would have seen:

The Last Supper, where Jesus spoke of His body and blood.
The betrayal of Judas, another member of their inner circle.
The agony of the Garden of Gethsemane.
The trial, scourging, and crucifixion of his Lord.
And ultimately, the empty tomb and the risen Christ.

It is likely that Matthew was present at the Great Commission in Matthew 28:18–20, when Jesus gave the apostles their final charge:

“Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit…”

Matthew’s inclusion in this commission is profoundly fitting, given the trajectory of his life. Once a man consumed with counting coins for an earthly empire, he was now entrusted with proclaiming a heavenly Kingdom that would never end.

A Quiet but Enduring Legacy

Unlike Peter, James, or John, Matthew does not appear prominently in Acts, the sequel to the Gospels that documents the growth of the early Church. Nor do we have recorded sermons or letters from him like we do from Paul or other apostles. This absence, however, should not be seen as insignificance. Not every witness is loud; not every impact is immediate.

Matthew’s legacy is not carried by his speeches or his prominence in public ministry. It is preserved in his written Gospel, a masterful and Spirit-inspired account that continues to disciple, teach, and inspire believers around the world to this day.

His story reminds us that:

Faithfulness does not require fame.
Apostleship is not about personal power, but about personal surrender.
And those who were once untrustworthy in the eyes of the world can be entrusted with the treasures of Heaven.

The Gospel According to Matthew: Authorship and Themes

One of the most lasting contributions of Matthew the Apostle to Christianity is his authorship of the first Gospel in the New Testament—The Gospel According to Matthew. While Matthew’s public ministry may have remained relatively quiet compared to some of the other apostles, his written testimony has echoed through the centuries, shaping the understanding of Jesus for countless generations. Through this Gospel, Matthew speaks—not from a tax booth, but from the heart of divine revelation.

Authorship: Did Matthew Write the First Gospel?

From the earliest days of the Church, Matthew has been traditionally recognized as the author of the Gospel that bears his name. Church fathers such as Papias (c. AD 60–130), Irenaeus, Origen, and Eusebius all affirm that Matthew, one of the Twelve, composed this account. According to Papias, Matthew wrote “the oracles of the Lord in the Hebrew language,” suggesting that his Gospel may have first circulated in Aramaic or Hebrew, though the surviving text we have today is in Greek.

Modern scholars have debated the authorship, citing literary similarities with Mark’s Gospel and the use of Greek language and sources. However, the uniform witness of early Christian tradition still points to Matthew as the compiler and spirit-filled narrator of this Gospel account.

Why is this important?

Because if Matthew the tax collector truly wrote this Gospel, then his transformation wasn’t just personal—it became global. The very man who once kept detailed records for Rome was now recording the life, teachings, and mission of the Messiah. The same hands that counted coins now crafted one of the clearest portrayals of Jesus’ kingship, His fulfillment of prophecy, and His call to discipleship.

Audience and Purpose

Matthew’s Gospel was written primarily for a Jewish-Christian audience. This is evident in his frequent references to the Hebrew Scriptures, his concern with Jewish customs and laws, and his presentation of Jesus as the long-awaited Messiah foretold by the prophets.

Matthew doesn’t just tell the story of Jesus—he connects it to everything that came before. His Gospel is filled with references like, “This was to fulfill what was spoken by the prophet…” which appear over a dozen times. Through these connections, Matthew paints a picture of Jesus as the fulfillment of God’s promises—not a break from the Old Testament, but its glorious completion.

His Gospel is also the most “orderly” and structured among the four. Matthew groups teachings and events thematically, organizing Jesus’ ministry into five major discourses (mirroring the five books of Moses), such as:

The Sermon on the Mount (Chapters 5–7)
The Mission Discourse (Chapter 10)
The Parables of the Kingdom (Chapter 13)
Church Life and Forgiveness (Chapter 18)
The Olivet Discourse (Chapters 24–25)

This structure shows a deliberate teaching method. Matthew is not just reporting events—he is discipling his readers, helping them understand who Jesus is and what it means to follow Him.

Major Themes in the Gospel of Matthew

The Gospel of Matthew is rich in theological insight, pastoral instruction, and spiritual application. Here are some of its most powerful themes:

1. Jesus as the Messiah and King

From the opening line—“The book of the genealogy of Jesus Christ, the son of David, the son of Abraham” (Matthew 1:1)—Matthew presents Jesus as the promised descendant of David, the rightful heir to Israel’s throne. He is the long-awaited King, not crowned in gold but born in humility, reigning not with armies but with grace and truth.

This Messianic focus runs throughout the Gospel. The Magi come to worship “the king of the Jews” (Matthew 2:2), and Jesus later declares, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me” (Matthew 28:18).

2. Fulfillment of Old Testament Prophecy

Matthew meticulously documents how Jesus’ life fulfills ancient prophecies:

Born of a virgin (Isaiah 7:14; Matthew 1:22–23)
Born in Bethlehem (Micah 5:2; Matthew 2:6)
Called out of Egypt (Hosea 11:1; Matthew 2:15)
Ministry in Galilee (Isaiah 9:1–2; Matthew 4:15–16)
Entry into Jerusalem on a donkey (Zechariah 9:9; Matthew 21:5)

For Matthew, Jesus is not a new idea but the promised Savior who brings the ancient story of Israel to its climax.

3. The Kingdom of Heaven

One of the most unique aspects of Matthew’s Gospel is his use of the phrase “Kingdom of Heaven”, which appears over 30 times. Unlike the other Gospels, which often use “Kingdom of God,” Matthew adopts this reverent Jewish idiom to show God’s divine rule breaking into human history through Jesus.

The Kingdom is not merely future—it is now. It is found in the hearts of the humble, the lives of the poor in spirit, the mercy of peacemakers, and the transformation of sinners. Jesus’ parables in Matthew (like the mustard seed, the treasure in the field, the net) describe a Kingdom that is both hidden and glorious, present and coming.

4. True Righteousness from the Heart

Matthew’s Jesus does not simply affirm external obedience to the law. He raises the bar. In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus declares:

“You have heard that it was said… But I say to you…” (Matthew 5)

Jesus redefines murder as anger, adultery as lust, and justice as radical forgiveness. He calls His followers to a righteousness that surpasses that of the scribes and Pharisees (Matthew 5:20). For Matthew, the law is fulfilled in love, and obedience flows from a transformed heart.

5. The Mission of the Church

Matthew uniquely records Jesus’ instructions for church life (Matthew 18), emphasizing forgiveness, accountability, and grace within the community of believers. He also records the climactic Great Commission:

“Go therefore and make disciples of all nations…” (Matthew 28:19)

This Gospel, which begins with Jesus’ Jewish roots, ends with a global vision—a call to bring the Gospel to the ends of the earth.

The Gospel of Matthew is not just a biography of Jesus—it is a discipleship manual, a royal proclamation, a theological masterpiece, and a personal invitation to follow the King.

Matthew the Apostle, once a man concerned with Rome’s taxes, became the inspired witness to the Kingdom of Heaven. His Gospel continues to teach, convict, and transform lives, calling every reader to ask:

Do you recognize the King?
Will you follow Him?

Key Events and Sayings Involving Matthew in the Bible

Though Matthew the Apostle does not dominate the Gospel narratives with lengthy speeches or dramatic miracles, his presence is deeply significant—especially in one powerful moment that marks the turning point of his life. His calling, and the events surrounding it, offer profound insights into the nature of Christ, the purpose of discipleship, and the power of mercy.

The most defining event involving Matthew is recorded in three of the four Gospels: Matthew 9:9–13, Mark 2:13–17, and Luke 5:27–32. Though each account varies slightly in detail, they all tell the same core story: Jesus calls a tax collector, and that tax collector responds with bold obedience and extravagant gratitude.

Jesus Calls Matthew from the Tax Booth

“As Jesus passed on from there, he saw a man called Matthew sitting at the tax booth, and he said to him, ‘Follow me.’ And he rose and followed him.”
— Matthew 9:9

In this single sentence, we witness the full arc of redemption: seeing, calling, rising, and following. Jesus sees Matthew. That in itself is astonishing. Most people likely avoided looking at him. Tax collectors were not only considered greedy and dishonest but were also ritually unclean and religiously condemned. They were the face of Roman oppression—Jewish collaborators who made a living off the backs of their own people.

Yet Jesus saw more than a tax collector. He saw a disciple.

He didn’t ask for repentance first. He didn’t test Matthew’s knowledge of the Scriptures. He simply invited him: “Follow Me.”

And Matthew rose and followed. No hesitation is recorded. No objections. He left behind everything he knew—his table, his job, his income, and his future as an agent of Rome. In that moment, he became a new man.

This moment reflects not only Matthew’s obedience but also Christ’s authority. Jesus’ words carried such weight, such power, that they pierced through layers of guilt and shame, calling forth a completely new identity.

A Feast with Sinners

Immediately after his calling, Matthew throws a great feast in his home. This act is recorded in Luke 5:29:

“And Levi made him a great feast in his house, and there was a large company of tax collectors and others reclining at table with them.”

Matthew’s first act as a disciple was not to preach a sermon, but to open his home and his life. He invited Jesus into his world and brought along everyone he knew—fellow tax collectors, outcasts, and sinners.

This is deeply symbolic. Matthew wasn’t just celebrating his new life—he was introducing others to the Savior. In one evening, he transitioned from a man who collected revenue to a man who gathered souls. His house became a mission field.

But not everyone was pleased. The religious leaders, the Pharisees, were outraged:

“Why does your teacher eat with tax collectors and sinners?”
— Matthew 9:11

To them, Jesus’ willingness to associate with the unclean was scandalous. To dine with someone in that culture was to extend fellowship, to offer friendship. Jesus not only entered Matthew’s world—He embraced it, sat with it, and loved it.

Jesus’ response is one of the most defining statements of His mission:

“Those who are well have no need of a physician, but those who are sick. Go and learn what this means, ‘I desire mercy, and not sacrifice.’ For I came not to call the righteous, but sinners.”
— Matthew 9:12–13

Here, Jesus redefines righteousness. It is not found in rule-keeping, separation, or outward religiosity—but in mercy, humility, and openness to grace. Matthew’s feast becomes a parable in action, a living demonstration of what the Kingdom of God truly looks like.

Jesus does not build His Kingdom with the self-righteous, but with the repentant. He doesn’t dine with the proud, but with the broken. And Matthew’s story becomes a beacon for all who have felt disqualified or dismissed.

No Other Direct Speeches, But a Gospel Full of His Voice

While Matthew does not deliver any speeches or ask notable questions in the Gospels, we must not overlook the greatest speech he ever gave—the one he wrote down as the Gospel of Matthew.

Though the man himself is mostly silent in the narrative, his written voice continues to speak. He gives us the Sermon on the Mount, the Parable of the Sower, the Lord’s Prayer, the Great Commission, and countless teachings that have formed the backbone of Christian faith and life.

He may not have spoken much about Jesus in the Gospels,
but he gave the world a Gospel of Jesus that continues to change hearts.

A Subtle Yet Powerful Presence

After the initial calling and the feast, Matthew fades into the background of the Gospel story. He is not singled out in later miracles, teachings, or confrontations. He does not walk on water like Peter, nor does he recline near Jesus at the Last Supper like John.

But this quietness is not insignificance. Rather, it reflects the humility of a man who had already said everything he needed to say—by rising and following.

In many ways, Matthew represents those disciples who do not lead from the front, but who remain steadfast in the background—listening, learning, recording, and serving. Their names may not be etched in headlines, but their faithfulness shapes the Church.

Matthew’s life is a reminder that it’s not the loudest voice that makes the biggest impact—it’s the truest.

Matthew’s appearances in the Bible are brief, but deeply powerful. His calling, his feast, and his quiet faith form a narrative of transformation, hospitality, and obedience. His story tells us that Jesus sees us at our lowest and still calls us to something higher. That we don’t have to clean ourselves up to be called—we are called, and then Christ begins His work in us.

And sometimes, the most important thing we can do is what Matthew did:

Rise.
Follow.
And invite others to meet the One who changed everything.

Ministry and Evangelism After Christ’s Ascension

After the resurrection and ascension of Jesus Christ, Matthew the Apostle stepped into the same sacred commission entrusted to all the disciples—to proclaim the Gospel “to the ends of the earth.” Though the New Testament does not offer a detailed record of Matthew’s post-ascension ministry, early Church tradition and historical writings provide compelling insight into the legacy of his missionary life and martyrdom.

What we know with confidence is this: Matthew was not just a follower of Christ—he became a messenger of the Kingdom, boldly proclaiming the very truths he had once recorded in his Gospel.

The Great Commission and Matthew’s Call to Mission

Before Jesus ascended into heaven, He gathered His disciples and delivered what has become known as the Great Commission:

“Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit,
teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.”
— Matthew 28:19–20

Matthew, who had carefully preserved these words in his Gospel, also lived them. The man who had once sat behind a tax booth now became a man who crossed boundaries—geographic, ethnic, and cultural—to bring the message of salvation to those who had never heard it.

Though Scripture does not chronicle his missionary journeys in Acts (as it does for Peter and Paul), early sources agree that Matthew took the Gospel far beyond the borders of Judea.

Where Did Matthew Preach?

The early Church Fathers and later traditions offer several accounts—some overlapping, some divergent—about the places where Matthew preached:

1. Judea and Nearby Regions

Most traditions begin with Matthew preaching in Judea, the region surrounding Jerusalem, shortly after Pentecost. It is likely that he, like the other Apostles, began his ministry among the Jewish people, sharing the Gospel first with his own countrymen—many of whom would have deeply distrusted him due to his past profession.

But Matthew’s transformation and his knowledge of the Old Testament Scriptures would have made him a powerful voice in connecting the Messianic prophecies with the person of Jesus.

2. Ethiopia

One of the most widespread traditions holds that Matthew traveled to Ethiopia—though the region referred to may not be modern-day Ethiopia, but rather areas in North Africa or parts of southern Arabia, sometimes called “Ethiopia” in ancient texts.

According to these accounts, Matthew preached the Gospel, performed miracles, and converted many, including members of local royalty. He is said to have confronted idolatry and pagan worship head-on, leading to both revival and resistance.

3. Persia, Parthia, or Syria

Other accounts suggest that Matthew may have journeyed as far as Persia (modern-day Iran) or Parthia—a region that overlapped parts of ancient Mesopotamia. Some place his mission field in Syria, particularly the city of Hierapolis (in modern-day Turkey).

While the precise geography varies, the consistent theme is that Matthew, like the other apostles, was tireless in his mission—bringing the light of Christ into spiritually dark places.

Regardless of exact locations, these traditions affirm that Matthew’s ministry was cross-cultural, courageous, and costly.

The Martyrdom of Saint Matthew

Tradition tells us that Matthew ultimately paid the ultimate price for his faith.

According to several early sources, Matthew was martyred while preaching the Gospel. The exact method of his death is uncertain and varies depending on the source:

Some say he was stabbed to death in Ethiopia while celebrating the Lord’s Supper.
Others claim he was burned alive, stoned, or beheaded.
One tradition from the Church in Ethiopia states that Matthew was killed after converting the king’s daughter to Christianity, leading to conflict with the local authorities.

Regardless of the method, the message is clear: Matthew was faithful unto death.
He did not shrink back from persecution. He did not return to comfort. He gave everything—just as he had on the day he rose from his tax booth.

His martyrdom sealed his testimony with blood. And the Church, for generations, has honored him not only as an evangelist and Gospel writer but as a faithful witness to Christ who did not love his life more than his Lord.

Matthew’s Example of Missionary Obedience

Matthew’s post-ascension life teaches us many powerful lessons about mission, sacrifice, and obedience:

From writing to living the Gospel: Matthew didn’t just record the words of Jesus—he lived them out in obedience, courage, and humility.
From despised outcast to global messenger: He carried the Gospel across cultures, becoming a living demonstration that God uses the unlikely for His glory.
From comfort to the cross: Matthew’s transformation was not temporary—it endured to the very end, even when it cost him his life.

We often remember Paul’s dramatic journeys or Peter’s bold sermons. But Matthew’s ministry reminds us that quiet obedience can change the world. His name may not appear frequently in Acts, but his legacy lives on in every believer who reads his Gospel, answers Christ’s call, and shares the Good News with others.

Symbolism and Legacy of Matthew the Apostle

Although Matthew the Apostle does not occupy center stage in the drama of Acts or the epistles of the New Testament, his legacy is deeply woven into the fabric of Christian history, theology, and worship. Through his Gospel and his life of quiet, faithful discipleship, Matthew has left a mark that transcends centuries and cultures.

He is more than a figure of the past. He is a living witness to the transforming power of Jesus—a man whose story continues to inspire sinners, call the outcast, and teach the Church what it means to follow Christ.

Symbolism in Christian Tradition

From the early centuries of the Church, the four Gospel writers—Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John—have been associated with four symbolic figures, based on the prophetic visions in Ezekiel 1:10 and Revelation 4:7. These four living creatures, with faces of a man, lion, ox, and eagle, were interpreted as representations of the evangelists, each corresponding to a unique emphasis in their Gospel.

Matthew’s Symbol: The Winged Man or Angel

Matthew is traditionally associated with the winged man or angel. This symbol reflects his Gospel’s strong emphasis on:

The humanity of Christ: From the very beginning, Matthew presents Jesus’ genealogy, tracing His human lineage back to Abraham and David (Matthew 1:1–17).
The incarnation: Matthew’s Gospel highlights the miraculous birth of Jesus and His identification with the human condition—“God with us” (Emmanuel).
Jesus as the Son of Man: A title Matthew often uses, stressing both the humanity and divine mission of Christ.

The winged man represents both reason and revelation, combining human understanding with divine message. It reflects Matthew’s unique ability to connect heavenly truth with earthly reality, Jewish prophecy with Christian fulfillment.

This image of the winged man is often seen in Christian art, cathedrals, illuminated manuscripts, and liturgical symbols, where Matthew is portrayed holding a book or scroll—his Gospel—beside the figure of an angel.

Liturgical and Cultural Legacy

Matthew’s influence is not limited to his Gospel. Over the centuries, he has been honored and venerated across Christian traditions, both East and West.

Feast Day

In the Roman Catholic, Anglican, and Lutheran traditions, Matthew’s feast day is celebrated on September 21.
In the Eastern Orthodox Church, he is commemorated on November 16.

These annual remembrances often include readings from his Gospel, reflections on his calling, and celebrations of missionary work.

Patron Saint

Saint Matthew is considered the patron saint of accountants, bankers, tax collectors, and civil servants. This ironic but powerful designation stems from his former profession. The man once known for handling money unjustly is now remembered as a spiritual guide for those working with finances—offering a redemptive model of integrity and transformation.

Artistic and Architectural Influence

Matthew’s likeness and symbols have adorned some of the greatest Christian works of art:

He appears in iconography and stained glass windows, often alongside the angelic figure.
His scenes—particularly his calling at the tax booth—have been famously depicted by artists such as Caravaggio, whose painting The Calling of Saint Matthew (1599–1600) captures the drama and mystery of Christ’s gaze and Matthew’s awakening.
Churches and cathedrals around the world bear his name, such as St. Matthew’s Cathedral in Washington, D.C., and numerous others across Europe and Asia.

Through these images, Matthew remains not only a historical figure but a living presence in the imagination and worship of the Church.

Theological and Evangelical Legacy

Matthew’s legacy also lives in theology, catechesis, and missionary work. His Gospel continues to be a foundational text for:

Evangelism: The Great Commission at the end of Matthew’s Gospel (28:19–20) is often cited as the core mandate for Christian mission.
Teaching: Matthew’s structured, didactic style has made his Gospel ideal for discipleship training, sermons, and study.
Apologetics: His use of Old Testament prophecy has helped generations of believers understand how Jesus fulfills the Law and the Prophets.

In addition, Matthew’s life story serves as an enduring testimony of grace and transformation. He reminds the Church that the Gospel is not just for the religious or righteous, but for the outsider, the ashamed, and the rejected.

His Gospel continues to be the first book many people read when opening the New Testament. It introduces them to the words and works of Jesus. And it has likely brought millions into the Kingdom of God, just as Matthew once brought his tax collector friends to dine with the Savior.

Matthew the Apostle may not have been the loudest voice among the Twelve. He may not have led councils or written multiple letters. But his one Gospel, his one act of obedience, and his one moment of surrender have carried more weight than he could have ever imagined.

And that, perhaps, is his greatest legacy:

A man once despised by his people
now known throughout the world.
A servant who gave up everything
and gained the Kingdom.
A sinner turned saint
who still teaches us to follow the One who said,
“Come, follow Me.”

Lessons from the Life of Matthew

The life of Matthew the Apostle offers more than just an inspiring historical account—it reveals deep spiritual truths that continue to speak into our modern lives. His transformation from despised tax collector to devoted disciple, from a man of wealth to a messenger of the Kingdom, invites us to examine our own hearts, our own callings, and our own responses to Jesus.

Here are some of the most compelling lessons we can draw from the life of Matthew:

1. No One Is Too Far Gone for Grace

Matthew’s very occupation marked him as a sinner in the eyes of his peers. Tax collectors in first-century Judea were more than just bureaucrats—they were viewed as greedy traitors working for the Roman oppressors. Religious leaders taught that associating with such people defiled a person spiritually. Matthew was considered beyond hope, beyond redemption.

Yet Jesus called him by name.

He didn’t wait for Matthew to change. He didn’t ask him to clean up his life first. He simply said, “Follow Me.”

That moment changes everything—for Matthew and for us. It reveals that God’s grace reaches where human judgment cannot. There is no life so stained, no past so broken, that Christ cannot redeem it. If Jesus chose Matthew, He can choose you. If grace was available for a tax collector, it is available for every sinner still today.

Have you ever felt too guilty, too unworthy, or too damaged for God to use you?
Matthew’s story answers: You are exactly the kind of person Jesus calls.

2. The Call to Follow Jesus Requires Radical Surrender

When Jesus called, Matthew left everything—his booth, his money, his position. Unlike Peter or John, who could return to fishing if needed, Matthew had no backup plan. Once he walked away from his Roman post, he burned the bridge behind him. He abandoned a secure income and a predictable future for an unknown road with a teacher from Nazareth.

This teaches us that true discipleship always involves cost. Following Jesus is not a matter of adding Him into our lives; it means giving Him our lives. It means letting go of old identities, false securities, and worldly attachments.

Jesus doesn’t just call us to believe—He calls us to follow. And following means moving.

What might Jesus be calling you to leave behind so you can follow Him fully?

3. A Transformed Life Becomes a Testimony

The very next thing Matthew did after his conversion was open his home and invite his friends to meet Jesus (Luke 5:29). He didn’t preach a sermon or write a Gospel immediately. He simply created space for others to encounter the same grace he had received.

This teaches us that evangelism doesn’t begin with eloquence—it begins with hospitality. It begins with a heart that wants others to experience what we’ve found in Christ.

Matthew didn’t hide his past. He didn’t pretend to be someone he wasn’t. Instead, he used his story to bridge the gap between Jesus and the outcast. His house became a mission field, and his table became a sanctuary of grace.

Who in your life needs to be invited to the table?
Could your past pain become a door to someone else’s healing?

4. Quiet Faithfulness Can Change the World

Matthew does not appear in dramatic episodes after his initial calling. We don’t hear him speak during Jesus’ major teachings or confront the Sanhedrin in Acts. He fades into the background—but what he left behind speaks volumes.

The Gospel of Matthew continues to be one of the most widely read, quoted, and studied texts in all of Scripture. Through it, millions have come to know the life and teachings of Jesus Christ.

This reminds us that you don’t have to be famous to be fruitful. Quiet obedience can leave an eternal legacy. Not all followers of Christ will stand on platforms or be remembered in history books, but every act of faithfulness—every sacrifice, every word of encouragement, every prayer—matters in the Kingdom of God.

Are you discouraged by feeling unseen or unimportant in your faith journey?
Remember Matthew. His silence led to a Gospel that still speaks.

5. The Gospel Is for the Least Likely

Matthew’s story challenges our assumptions about who is “fit” to be used by God. We tend to think God uses the clean, the qualified, the experienced. But Scripture is full of broken people who became powerful witnesses:

Moses was a stammering exile.
David was a shepherd and an adulterer.
Paul was a persecutor of Christians.
Matthew was a collaborator with the enemy.

And yet God chose them all.

Matthew reminds us that the Kingdom of God is upside-down. It’s not the righteous who are welcomed, but the repentant. It’s not the strong who are chosen, but the surrendered.

Could it be that the very things you think disqualify you…
are the things that God will use to display His grace?

Matthew’s life leaves us with a simple but world-shaking pattern:

He encountered Jesus.
He responded immediately.
He invited others.
He followed faithfully.
He left a legacy.

If you find yourself weary from guilt, unsure of your place in the Church, or wondering whether you matter to God—let Matthew’s story sink deep into your heart.

Jesus sees you.

He calls you.

And He can use you—not because you’re perfect, but because He is.

Conclusion: Why Matthew Still Matters

Matthew the Apostle may not have performed great public miracles. He didn’t preach at Pentecost or pen multiple letters like Paul. His name appears only a few times in the New Testament, and yet his impact has been nothing short of eternal. Why? Because his life, his Gospel, and his example reveal something so central, so powerful, so enduring—it is the very heart of Christianity.

Matthew matters because his story is our story.

He was a man rejected by people but chosen by God. A man enslaved to worldly wealth who found true riches in Christ. A man silenced by shame who ended up writing one of the most important testimonies of Jesus the world has ever known.

He reminds us that:

Jesus sees the unseen.
Where others saw a traitor, Jesus saw a disciple. Where society saw sin, Jesus saw purpose.
Grace can rewrite any story.
You are not the sum of your failures. You are not limited by your past. If you’re willing to follow Jesus, He can make all things new.
Discipleship means leaving everything behind.
Following Jesus isn’t just belief—it’s surrender. It’s stepping away from the old and into the new, with no safety net but the Savior Himself.
The Gospel is for everyone.
Not just for the holy, the clean, or the confident—but for the broken, the unsure, and the rejected.

Matthew’s Gospel continues to speak across cultures and centuries, introducing Jesus as King, Messiah, Teacher, and Redeemer. Every time someone opens to the first page of the New Testament, they meet Matthew—a man who once counted coins, now helping souls count the cost of following Christ.

And still today, Jesus walks up to people like Matthew.

People sitting at their own “tax booths”—chained to shame, regret, ambition, or fear.

He looks them in the eye. And He says:

“Follow Me.”

That invitation echoes in your heart right now.

Not to religion.

Not to rules.

But to Jesus.

Will You Follow Him?

Jesus is calling you just as He called Matthew. Not because you’ve earned it, but because He loves you. Not because you’re righteous, but because He is merciful.

You don’t have to be perfect.
You don’t have to fix yourself first.
You just have to say yes.

“If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow me.”
— Matthew 16:24

It begins with a decision—to rise from whatever has held you captive and to walk toward the Savior who gave everything for you.

If you’re ready, you can begin this journey with a simple, honest prayer:

A Simple Prayer of Surrender

Lord Jesus,
I believe You are the Son of God.
I believe You died for my sins and rose again to give me new life.
Like Matthew, I have gone my own way. But today, I choose to follow You.
Forgive me, change me, and lead me.
I leave my old life behind.
From this day on, I am Yours.
Amen.

What to Do Next

Read the Gospel of Matthew. Start with the first chapter and listen to how Jesus is revealed through Matthew’s eyes.
Pray daily. Just speak to Jesus like you would a close friend. He is listening.
Find a Bible-believing church. Walk with others who are following Jesus too.
Share your story. Like Matthew, invite others to know the One who changed your life.

The story of Matthew the Apostle isn’t just history—it’s a holy invitation.

From the tax booth to the Gospel pages, from shame to sainthood, from silence to Scripture…
He followed Jesus.
Now it’s your turn.

Will you?