Tax Collectors

N.T. #96 "Tax Collectors"

June 21, 2023

Matthew 9-Part 4

LET IT GLOW

Now we have a totally different set of events found in verses 9-12. When Jesus saw Matthew, a tax collector sitting at a toll booth in the street where tax collectors sat to receive various taxes. He was a traitor to his people, a Jew who worked as an agent for the Roman government. He was likely banned from the synagogue, shunned by his countrymen, untrusted as a friend, and numbered with robbers and murderers. Nobody wanted anything to do with Matthew. EXCEPT JESUS.

I wonder if the disciples stood back and thought, "Um, where are you going, Lord?" Maybe some of Jesus' followers were waiting for a tongue lashing from their Master, the preacher of righteousness. Yep, no one deserved it more than Matthew, such a scoundrel. People hated those of this profession. None happened.

The Romans had 2 types of taxes for the people to pay:

1. Similar to our income or sales taxes, these were a fixed rate, so the collector could add his pocket money on top of the charge.
2. The second type was related to customs, imports, and exports. Corrupt officials had plenty of room to collect large, extra amounts.

 

Most tax collectors were cheats, dishonest, and unjust men. (Notice that Matthew was wealthy and had a large house, as well as gave a dinner party. (verse 10) Jesus saw what Matthew was doing and where he was sitting. Yet, there was no rebuke from Jesus. 

How do we treat others? Is it like we want to be treated?

We are no better than this tax collector, yet the mercy of God is shown upon us who love Him.

LET IT GROW

What was it that Jesus said? Not a rebuke, not a lecture. 

"Follow Me." It was forceful and to the point. Don't you think Matthew had heard about this Jesus?  There were no questions asked, no hesitations, no buts, no allowances, no half-heartedness, no delayed decision.

Matthew arose and followed Jesus immediately and with a total commitment. (verse 9) Matthew got up and left all to follow Jesus. When the call came, Matthew answered. Probably, he took care of his business affairs later. this rich man left the material and prosperous world to become rich in faith and love. He is the author of this book in the Bible we are studying.

What a turnaround for Matthew. Once Matthew began to follow Jesus, he never turned back.

Friend, have you answered the call to follow Jesus? He loves you so much that He gave His life so you could spend eternity with Him in heaven. If you haven't yet, please ask Jesus to forgive your sins and be your Savior. He is waiting.

If you are a believer, are you sharing the love of Jesus with others? 

LET IT GO

Father, You are a God of wonders, holy, Creator of heaven and earth and us.

Have mercy on us sinners.

Praise to Jesus, our glorious Savior, Lord of heaven and earth!