Jesus Chooses Matthew as a Disciple

Topic: Choice

Passage: Mark 2:13–17

January 10, 2022

Commentary

The scene now shifts to the seaside (v. 13), where Jesus continues teaching the crowds. There, He calls a man named Matthew, also known as Levi, to follow Him (v. 14). Matthew was a tax collector working for the Roman government, a position known for wealth but also for dishonesty and greed. Because of this, tax collectors were hated and rejected by society. Yet when Jesus said, “Follow me,” Matthew immediately left everything and followed Him. His quick response shows a willing heart ready for change and a life transformed by grace and obedience to Christ. True sur-render begins with obedience.

Matthew then prepared a large meal in his home (v. 15). He invited many tax collectors, and others considered sinners, allowing them to meet Jesus. This gathering reveals Matthew’s desire to honor Jesus and to bring his friends into His presence. However, the religious leaders criticized Jesus for eating with such people (v. 16). They believed He should avoid those they considered unclean and unworthy. When Jesus heard their complaint, He responded with truth and compassion. He said, “They that are whole have no need of the physician, but they that are sick.” He came not to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance (v. 17). Jesus makes it clear that those who recognize their need are the ones who receive help. Humble hearts are ready to receive grace.

Matthew’s calling reminds us of three important truths. First, everyone is called to repentance. Second, repentance leads to a relationship with Jesus. Third, this relationship brings healing and restoration. God’s Word works like a spiritual medicine, bringing healing to the heart, mind, and life when we receive it with faith, hope, humility, and a desire to follow Him daily. Healing begins with honest repentance.

Application

Do I respond to Jesus like Matthew did, or do I hold back and delay? Am I willing to leave behind old habits and comfort for Him? Do I open my heart to others, even those I struggle to accept? Do I honestly see my need for Jesus’ healing and grace? Teach me to walk in obedience, humility, and daily faith in Your Word.

Mark 2:13–17 (NET)

¹³ Jesus went out again by the sea. The whole crowd came to him, and he taught them. ¹⁴ As he went along, he saw Levi, the son of Alphaeus, sitting at the tax booth. “Follow me,” he said to him. And he got up and followed him. ¹⁵ As Jesus was having a meal in Levi’s home, many tax collectors and sinners were eating with Jesus and his disciples, for there were many who followed him. ¹⁶ When the experts in the law and the Pharisees saw that he was eating with sinners and tax collectors, they said to his disciples, “Why does he eat with tax collectors and sinners?” ¹⁷ When Jesus heard this he said to them, “Those who are healthy don’t need a physician, but those who are sick do. I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners.”

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