LAKE JAMES

NORTH CAROLINA

Saint Matthew, Apostle and Evangelist

Bible scholars identify Saint Matthew as being Levi the tax collector mentioned in the Gospels written by St. Mark and by St. Luke. In Matthew’s own Gospel, he was seated in the custom-house when Jesus called him to “follow me.” At once, he left everything, followed the Lord, and later gave a big dinner in his honor. All three Gospels include the information that Jesus was severely criticized for eating at the same table with a tax collector, for they were considered to be collaborators with the Roman Occupation government as well as being dishonest by extorting more than was due. To devout Jews of Christ’s time, tax collectors were traitors and outcasts, so Christ’s willingness to talk and even eat with them was shocking.

Saint Matthew was one of the first people to be called by Jesus to be part of his apostolic team. Although scholars are uncertain as to whether he actually wrote the Gospel which bears his name, it is generally accepted that at least much of the information in it did come from St. Matthew. It is also considered to be the “most Jewish” of the four Gospels, with a major emphasis on showing how Jesus fulfilled the Old Testament prophecies, along with the themes of the importance of faith, the reality of eternal life, and duties toward one’s neighbors, family, and even enemies.

St. Matthew is numbered among the holy martyrs although the time and circumstances of his death are unknown.

The Collect for Saint Matthew’s Day (September 21)

We thank you, heavenly Father, for the witness of your apostle and evangelist Matthew to the Gospel of your Son our Savior; and we pray that, after his example, and aided by his prayers, we may with ready wills and hearts obey the calling of our Lord to follow him; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever.

[adapted from “Lesser Feasts and Fasts” by A. T. K. Z.+]

This page last modified on Friday, April 11, 2008 09:40 PM