MATTHEW, AN EXAMPLE FOR ALL

In I Corinthians 11:1, the apostle Paul rote, "Be ye imitators of me, even as I also am of Christ." Paul realized that Christ, not any man, is our ultimate example. It was Christ, and only Christ, who lived a life free of sin. Christ, and only Christ, was free of any defects in his character. But Paul also realized that, to a lesser degree, we are to be examples for one another. One man who serves as an example for us in many ways is Matthew.

First, consider Matthew’s humility. Luke wrote that when Jesus called Matthew, Matthew "left all" and followed Jesus (Luke 5:28). In contrast, Matthew simply wrote, "he arose and followed him" (Matthew 9:9). At one time, Matthew prepared a dinner for Jesus in his own house (Luke 5:29). We have been warned against being overly proud (Proverbs 6:16-18; 16:19). Jesus’ words encourage us to maintain an attitude of humility (Matthew 23:12).

Second, consider Matthew’s new name. Matthew is also referred to as Levi (Mark 2:14; Luke 5:27). Most commentators agree this was probably Matthew’s original name. The name Levi means, "to adhere," while Matthew means "gift of God." While Levi, who had previously cleaved to the old ways, would die (figuratively), Matthew, the gift of God, would live in his place. When we obey the gospel, we are to wear the name Christian (Acts 11:26). We must live in such a way that we bring honor to Christ’s name (and his church), rather than reproach.

Third, consider Matthew’s spirit of self-sacrifice. Luke’s record of the gospel tells us that Matthew "left all" (Luke 5:26). When Matthew recorded Jesus’ challenge to the rich young ruler (he no doubt thought of a time in his life when he was faced with a similar decision. Jesus expects that same spirit of self-sacrifice from us (Luke 10:27). Unfortunately, the church has always been plagued with those persons who are lukewarm, possessing only a half-hearted sense of commitment.

Fourth, consider Matthew’s reverence for the scriptures. We cannot read Matthew’s record of the gospel without being impressed with his reverence for the scriptures (4:12-16; 13:35; 21:4-5). Today, we ought to have that same reverence for the scriptures, recognizing them as the inspired word of God (II Timothy 3:16-17).

Note: This article was adapted from "Lessons From new Testament Characters," by Dub McClish, appearing in MSOP Lectureship Book.