Considered among the worst of sinners, hated by his fellow Jews, let’s find out how this greedy, unscrupulous tax collector left that life behind to become a follower of Jesus Christ.

His Greek name, Matthew, means “gift of God.” His father’s name was Alphaeus, as we read in Mark 2:14 , where he is also called by his Hebrew name, Levi. It was not unusual for first-century Jews to have both a Semitic and Greco-Roman name; it is likely this apostle’s full name was Levi Matthew. The name, Levi, indicated his priestly lineage in the line of Levi, who was one of the sons of Jacob, the father of the 12 tribes of Israel

Matthew’s occupation was that of a publican or tax collector in Capernaum, collecting tariffs on goods that passed on the road between Damascus and the Mediterranean Sea. Publicans or tax collectors are historically despised in every culture. During this time, they were especially hated by the Jews and the Pharisees considered tax collectors the worst of sinners. However, when Matthew had a life-changing encounter with Jesus, he left behind the source of his riches, his position of power, security, comfort for traveling, hardship, and eventual martyrdom; Matthew left his old life for a new life with Jesus.

Listen in to today’s episode as we explore the life of Matthew and learn how we can effectively share the Gospel message with those around us.

On the next episode:

Be sure to join us next time on the History for Christian Teens podcast when we discover the lasting impact of second chances for the nephew of a New Testament missionary.

Resources referenced or recommended for further study:

• Bible Gateway


• The Ultimate Bible Character Guide, by Gina Detwiler


• 10 Minutes to Knowing the Men & Women of the Bible, Jim George


• NASB Charles F. Stanley Life Principles Bible Notes


• What is a Publican in the Bible?

Scripture references:

• Matthew 9:9-13


• Matthew 10:3


• Mark 2:14-17


• Luke 5:17-32


• 2 Corinthians 5:14-15, 17


• Matthew 5:13-16

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