In the midst of a bustling town, filled with people from all walks of life, Jesus encounters a man named Matthew, also known as Levi, who would later become one of His twelve apostles. The story of how Jesus chooses Matthew, as recorded in the Bible, provides valuable insights into the nature of God’s calling and the characteristics that make someone a suitable candidate for a life of discipleship.
To understand the context of this encounter, it’s essential to know that Matthew was a tax collector, a profession viewed with disdain by the Jewish community. Tax collectors were seen as traitors, working for the Roman Empire and often enriching themselves by exploiting their fellow Jews. Despite his questionable profession, Matthew was chosen by Jesus, which raises questions about the criteria Jesus used to select His disciples.
The Unexpected Choice
Jesus’ selection of Matthew as an apostle is unexpected, given the societal norms of the time. Tax collectors were outcasts, and their profession was considered unclean. However, Jesus saw beyond the external appearances and the societal stigma associated with Matthew’s job. He looked into Matthew’s heart, recognizing a deep sense of longing and a desire for something more meaningful.
The calling of Matthew is recorded in the Gospel of Matthew (9:9-13) and Mark (2:13-14). According to these accounts, Jesus saw Matthew sitting at his tax booth and said, “Follow me.” Without hesitation, Matthew left his booth and followed Jesus. This encounter highlights the sovereign nature of Jesus’ calling, where He chooses individuals based on their inner qualities rather than their external circumstances.
Characteristics of a Called Individual
So, what characteristics did Matthew possess that made him an ideal candidate for Jesus’ calling? While we can’t know for certain, several traits are evident in Matthew’s story:
- Humility: Despite being a tax collector, Matthew didn’t hesitate to leave his lucrative profession when Jesus called him. This humility and willingness to surrender his old life demonstrate a crucial aspect of a called individual.
- Openness to the unknown: Matthew followed Jesus without knowing where He would lead. This openness to the unknown and willingness to take risks are essential qualities for anyone responding to a divine calling.
- Desire for spiritual growth: Matthew’s profession as a tax collector may have been seen as unclean, but his encounter with Jesus reveals a deep-seated desire for spiritual growth and a longing for a more meaningful life.
The Process of Calling
Jesus’ calling of Matthew also sheds light on the process of being called by God. While the specifics may vary from person to person, several key elements are evident in Matthew’s story:
- Divine initiative: Jesus took the initiative to call Matthew, demonstrating that God is the One who initiates the calling process.
- Personal encounter: The calling of Matthew involved a personal encounter between Jesus and Matthew. This highlights the importance of direct, personal experiences with God in the calling process.
- Immediate response: Matthew’s immediate response to Jesus’ call demonstrates the importance of responding promptly to God’s calling, without hesitation or delay.
Lessons from Matthew’s Calling
The story of how Jesus chooses Matthew offers valuable lessons for anyone seeking to understand the nature of God’s calling:
- God looks beyond external appearances: Jesus saw beyond Matthew’s profession and societal stigma, recognizing the potential for discipleship in his heart.
- Calling is a sovereign act: Jesus’ choice of Matthew demonstrates that God’s calling is a sovereign act, not based on human merit or external circumstances.
- Responding to the call requires humility and openness: Matthew’s response to Jesus’ call highlights the importance of humility, openness to the unknown, and a willingness to surrender one’s old life.
Conclusion
The calling of Matthew by Jesus provides a unique glimpse into the nature of God’s calling and the characteristics that make someone a suitable candidate for a life of discipleship. As we reflect on this story, we are reminded that God looks beyond external appearances, seeking individuals with humble hearts, a desire for spiritual growth, and a willingness to respond to His call. Whether you’re a tax collector or someone from a different background, God’s calling is available to anyone who is willing to respond with an open heart and mind.
FAQ Section
What were the societal implications of being a tax collector in Jesus’ time?
+Tax collectors were viewed with disdain by the Jewish community, seen as traitors working for the Roman Empire and often exploiting their fellow Jews. This profession was considered unclean, and tax collectors were often shunned by society.
What characteristics did Matthew possess that made him an ideal candidate for Jesus’ calling?
+Matthew demonstrated humility, openness to the unknown, and a desire for spiritual growth. These traits, combined with his willingness to surrender his old life, made him an ideal candidate for Jesus’ calling.
What can we learn from the process of Jesus’ calling of Matthew?
+The calling of Matthew highlights the importance of divine initiative, personal encounter, and immediate response. It also demonstrates that God looks beyond external appearances, seeking individuals with humble hearts and a willingness to respond to His call.
