Matthew (Levi)

Among the twelve apostles of Jesus Christ, Matthew—also known as Levi—stands out as a figure whose life embodies one of the most striking transformations recorded in the New Testament. From a profession widely despised in Jewish society, he became not only a devoted disciple but also, according to long-standing tradition, the author of one of the four Gospels.
Matthew is traditionally believed to have been born in Capernaum, a bustling town on the northern shore of the Sea of Galilee. In the first century, Capernaum was an important center of trade and administration, situated along key routes used by merchants and travelers.
It was here that Matthew worked as a tax collector—a profession that placed him at the intersection of Roman authority and local Jewish life. Tax collectors were responsible for gathering revenue for the Roman Empire, often collecting tolls and duties on goods passing through the region.
However, this occupation carried a heavy social cost. Tax collectors were frequently viewed as collaborators with the occupying Roman власти and were often associated with corruption and exploitation. As a result, they were widely regarded as sinners and social outcasts.
Matthew’s life took a decisive turn in a moment recorded in the Gospel that bears his name:
 
“And as Jesus passed forth from thence, he saw a man, named Matthew, sitting at the receipt of custom: and he saith unto him, Follow me. And he arose, and followed him.” (Matthew 9:9, KJV)
This brief yet powerful encounter marks one of the most dramatic callings among the apostles. There is no record of hesitation or negotiation—only immediate response. Matthew leaves behind his profession, his income, and his former life to follow Jesus.
The significance of this moment would not have been lost on contemporaries. By calling a tax collector, Jesus challenged social and religious boundaries, demonstrating that His message extended even to those considered outsiders.
Shortly after his calling, Matthew hosts a gathering in his house, where many tax collectors and others labeled as sinners are present. This event prompts criticism from the Pharisees, to which Jesus responds:
 
“I am not come to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance.” (Matthew 9:13, KJV)
This episode underscores the broader meaning of Matthew’s calling—it is not only personal, but symbolic of the inclusive nature of Jesus’ ministry.
After joining Jesus, Matthew became one of the twelve apostles, witnessing the teachings, miracles, crucifixion, and resurrection of Christ. Like the other apostles, he participated in the formative events that would shape the foundation of Christianity.
Although the Gospels do not record many individual actions of Matthew after his calling, his presence among the twelve signifies his role as a direct witness to the life and message of Jesus.
Traditionally, he is identified as the son of Alphaeus, though the New Testament provides little additional information about his family or personal life. There is no clear record of marriage or descendants.
Matthew is traditionally credited as the author of the Gospel that bears his name. This Gospel occupies a central place in the New Testament and has been especially influential in Christian teaching and theology.
The Gospel of Matthew is notable for its strong connection to Jewish tradition. It frequently references Old Testament prophecies, presenting Jesus as the fulfillment of the promises made to Israel. This emphasis suggests that its intended audience included Jewish readers familiar with the Scriptures.
Among its most well-known passages are:

• The Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5–7)

• The Lord’s Prayer (Matthew 6:9–13)

• The Great Commission (Matthew 28:19–20)

Through this Gospel, Matthew contributes not only as a witness but as a teacher, helping to shape the understanding of Jesus’ life and message for generations to come.
After the resurrection of Jesus and the spread of the early Christian movement, Matthew is believed to have taken part in missionary work beyond the borders of Israel. While the New Testament does not detail his travels, early Christian traditions associate him with preaching in distant regions.
Among the places most commonly mentioned are:

• Ethiopia

• Persia

• Other parts of the East

These traditions reflect the broader expansion of Christianity during the first century, as the apostles carried the message of the Gospel across diverse cultures and regions.
Matthew is traditionally believed to have died between AD 60 and 70. Accounts of his death vary, but many traditions suggest that he died as a martyr, possibly in Ethiopia or Persia.
As with several of the apostles, the exact details remain uncertain. Yet the consistent theme across traditions is his enduring commitment to the message he once embraced so suddenly and completely.
Matthew’s life tells a story of transformation. He began as a tax collector—an occupation associated with wealth, power, and social rejection—and became a follower of Jesus, leaving everything behind.
His inclusion among the apostles illustrates a central theme of the Gospel: that no background places a person beyond the reach of God’s call.
Moreover, his association with the Gospel of Matthew ensures his lasting influence. Through this text, his voice continues to shape Christian thought, teaching, and understanding of Jesus Christ.
Matthew (Levi) stands as a powerful example of change and purpose. His journey from the tax booth in Capernaum to the ranks of the apostles reflects the transformative nature of encountering Jesus.
Though the historical record preserves only fragments of his life, those fragments reveal a man who responded immediately to a call, faithfully followed it, and helped carry its message to the world.