The Calling of Matthew

The Calling of Matthew
Matthew 9:9-13
We continue the series on the Gospel of Matthew, focusing on Matthew 9:9–13, where Jesus calls the tax collector Matthew to follow Him. In the previous message, Jesus forgave and healed a paralytic to demonstrate His authority to forgive sins, which shocked the religious leaders.
Matthew, a despised tax collector, is unexpectedly and graciously called by Jesus. Though the call seems abrupt, it was likely an informed decision, as Matthew would have known about Jesus’ miracles and teaching in Capernaum. His decision was nevertheless radical and meant leaving behind wealth, status, and any chance of returning to his old job—but he followed Jesus without hesitation.
Matthew then hosts a banquet to celebrate, inviting fellow tax collectors and sinners to meet Jesus. This angers the Pharisees, who question why Jesus would associate with such people. Jesus responds that just as a doctor comes for the sick, He has come for sinners, not the self-righteous. Jesus rebukes the Pharisees, quoting Hosea 6:6.
The message is organized under four headings:
- Jesus calls a despised sinner – Matthew is chosen despite his shameful role in society.
- Jesus dines with spiritually needy sinners – Matthew invites his former associates to meet Christ.
- Jesus disapproves self-righteous sinners – He corrects the Pharisees’ hypocrisy and spiritual blindness.
- Jesus came for sinners – He calls them to repentance and transformation.
Jesus still calls sinners today, not based on merit but grace.