MatthewMORE THAN ANY other disciple, Matthew had a clear idea of how much it would cost to followJesus, yet he did not hesitate for a moment. When he left his tax collector’s booth, he guaranteedhimself unemployment. Several of the other disciples could always return to fishing, but for Matthew,there was no turning back.Two changes happened to Matthew when he decided to follow Jesus. First, Jesus gave him a newlife. He not only belonged to a new group; he belonged to the Son of God. He was not just acceptinga different way of life; he was now an accepted person. For a despised tax collector, that change musthave been wonderful! Second, Jesus gave Matthew a new purpose for his skills. When he followedJesus, the only tool from his past job that he carried with him was his pen. From the beginning, Godhad made him a record keeper. Jesus’ call eventually allowed him to put his skills to their finest work.Matthew was a keen observer, and he undoubtedly recorded what he saw going on around him. TheGospel that bears his name came as a result.Matthew’s experience points out that every person, from the beginning, is one of God’s works inprogress. Much of what God has for us he gives long before we are able to consciously respond tohim. He trusts us with skills and abilities ahead of schedule. He has made each of us capable of beinghis servant. When we trust him with what he has given us, we begin a life of real adventure. Matthewcouldn’t have known that God would use the very skills he had sharpened as a tax collector to recordthe greatest story ever lived. And God has no less meaningful a purpose for each one of us. Have yourecognized Jesus saying to you, “Follow me”? What has been your response?MATTHEW (JESUS’ DISCIPLE)Strengths and accomplishmentsResponded immediately to Jesus’ callInvited many friends to his home to meet JesusWrote the Gospel of MatthewClarified for his Jewish audience Jesus’ fulfillment of Old Testament propheciesNotable factsOne of Jesus’ original 12 disciplesA social outcast among Jesus’ disciples (along with Simon the zealot)Jesus’ Biographers: A look at the writers of the four Gospels.The inside story of Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John.
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