Matthew

It is the third week of the series: Student. Today, we look at Matthew. What do we know about Matthew? Scripture reveals very little about Matthew. Other than the gospel, which is created to him, there is not a lot of information. Matthew is also known as Levi. He collected taxes for the Roman Empire. Matthew was collecting tolls when Jesus invited him to follow. After he began his journey as a student of Jesus, Matthew threw a feast or party for his friends, so that they could meet Jesus. Matthew and his fellow tax collectors were judged and outcasts from Jewish society, so Jesus was criticized for attending the party with people that the religious leaders considered unholy.

               Matthew causes us to consider how we invite our friends to meet Jesus. Maybe they feel uncomfortable in a religious setting too. Could this mean that our friends meet Jesus through us in other ways, maybe even parties? Our conversations, prayers, service, and acts of mercy may be opportunities to show people the Risen Christ. As part of the Body of Christ, we may never recognize how we can be Christ to others, introducing Jesus to those who long for his love and grace. Pause to consider this week how you are introducing people to Jesus.

A Student of Jesus,

Rev. Sherri

Homework for Matthew:

Reda more about Matthew: Mark 3:18, Acts 1:13, Matthew 10:3, Matthew 9:9.

Read Matthew to learn more about Matthew’s observations and written perspective.