Even Jesus didn’t minister alone. 

The paradise of Eden had one problem. Adam didn’t have a person like himself to be intimate with, to complete him, and to partner with him in ministry. Together, Adam and Eve were given a mission to multiply (have kids) and bring the rest of the world under God’s creative order and dominion. 

As we know, Adam and Eve disobeyed God and lost their purpose. 

The apostle Paul wrote how Jesus was the second Adam (1 Corinthians 15:45), a new model for a new humanity, the Spirit living within men and women. Since he was this model, he gathered disciples unto himself to partner with him to fulfill his mission. The main 12 disciples we call apostles. 

Each of the main 12 were interesting men. Matthew stands as one of the most fascinating people Jesus called to follow him. 

1. Matthew Was a Tax Collector 

The Jews had returned to Judea and Jerusalem after years of exile, yet they lived under Roman Imperial control. The Romans oppressed and subjugated the Jews, treating many like slaves. Matthew worked as a tax collector for the Romans, taking money from his own people for those who oppressed them. Most would have seen him as a traitor. Further, tax collectors would often overcharge and keep extra money, developing a reputation for greed and theft. Jews viewed these “publicans” as traitors and robbers. 

However, one day, while Matthew sat working at his tax booth, Jesus looked at him and said, “Follow me.” This would have been scandalous to the religious Jews of the day to even offer redemption. After hearing Jesus call him, Matthew obeyed. He left behind his position and wealth to embrace a new life as Jesus’ disciple for the Kingdom of God. The Pharisees critiqued Jesus for associating with such a sinner. But Jesus told them, “I have not come to call the righteous but sinners to repentance.” 

Matthew’s story tells us no one is beyond redemption. Once an agent of oppression and getting rich from it, he transformed. God’s voice and call can change and redeem anyone, even the ones we may feel are the least likely. In truth, no one is worthy or able to be saved. We all need his grace and mercy, and just as God saved us, he can save anyone. This gives us hope to pray for others and keep on praying. 

Photo Credit: Image created using Chat 40 2025.  AI technology and subsequently edited and reviewed by our editorial team.