THE CALL OF MATTHEW

THE CALL OF MATTHEW

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: Matthew 9:9-13

Key Verse: “And as Jesus passed forth from thence, he saw a man, named Matthew, sitting at the receipt of custom: and he saith unto him, Follow me. And he arose, and followed him.” (Matthew 9:9)

Supporting Texts: Luke 5:27-32, 2 Corinthians 5:17, John 15:16, Ephesians 2:8-10, Philippians 3:13-14

Description: This study reveals the transforming call of Jesus Christ, the power of grace, and the response required from those called into discipleship and service.

INTRODUCTION

Matthew chapter 9 records the call of Matthew, also known as Levi, a tax collector. Tax collectors in Jewish society were often despised because they worked for the Roman government and were associated with corruption and greed. Yet Jesus saw beyond Matthew’s past and called him into discipleship.

This story reveals the grace and mercy of God. Jesus does not call people based on perfection, social status, or past failures. He calls ordinary and imperfect people and transforms them into vessels for His purpose and glory.

The call of Matthew also demonstrates the proper response to God’s invitation: immediate obedience, surrender, and a willingness to leave the old life behind in order to follow Christ fully.

1. JESUS CALLS ORDINARY AND IMPERFECT PEOPLE

God’s grace reaches beyond human weakness and failure.

a) Jesus called Matthew despite his background (Matthew 9:9)
Christ saw potential and purpose where others saw failure and rejection.

b) God does not judge by outward appearance (1 Samuel 16:7)
The Lord looks at the heart and divine purpose within a person.

c) Salvation comes by grace and not human merit (Ephesians 2:8-9)
No one earns the call or favour of God through personal righteousness.

d) Christ came to save sinners (Matthew 9:12-13)
Jesus seeks those who recognise their need for mercy and transformation.

Biblical Example:
Moses was once a fugitive and shepherd, yet God called him to deliver Israel from Egypt (Exodus 3:1-10).

2. THE CALL OF CHRIST DEMANDS IMMEDIATE RESPONSE

Following Jesus requires obedience and surrender.

a) Matthew arose immediately and followed Jesus (Matthew 9:9)
Genuine discipleship requires willingness to obey without delay.

b) Delayed obedience can hinder spiritual growth (Hebrews 3:15)
God’s call should be answered with readiness and faith.

c) Following Christ may require leaving old ways behind (Philippians 3:13-14)
Believers must move forward from sinful patterns and distractions.

d) True discipleship involves sacrifice and commitment (Luke 9:23)
Following Jesus requires self-denial and daily surrender.

Biblical Example:
Peter, Andrew, James, and John left their fishing nets immediately when Jesus called them (Matthew 4:18-22).

3. JESUS TRANSFORMS THOSE HE CALLS

Christ changes lives completely through salvation and discipleship.

a) Matthew became a disciple and Gospel writer (Matthew 9:9)
God transformed a tax collector into a servant and witness of Christ.

b) Salvation produces a new creation (2 Corinthians 5:17)
In Christ, old things pass away and lives are renewed.

c) God equips those He calls (1 Thessalonians 5:24)
The Lord provides grace, wisdom, and strength for His assignment.

d) God uses transformed lives for His glory (John 15:16)
Believers are called to bear lasting spiritual fruit.

Biblical Example:
Saul the persecutor became Paul the apostle after encountering Christ on the road to Damascus (Acts 9:1-20).

4. THE CALLED ARE TO EXTEND GOD’S MERCY TO OTHERS

Those who receive grace should show grace to others.

a) Jesus ate with sinners and outcasts (Matthew 9:10)
Christ demonstrated compassion and mercy toward broken people.

b) God desires mercy and not empty religion (Matthew 9:13)
Genuine spirituality reflects love, compassion, and humility.

c) Believers are called to share the Gospel (Mark 16:15)
Those transformed by Christ should lead others to Him.

d) The Church should welcome repentant sinners (Romans 15:7)
God’s people must reflect His grace and acceptance.

Biblical Example:
The Samaritan woman encountered Jesus and immediately began sharing the message with others in her city (John 4:28-30).

CONCLUSION

The call of Matthew reveals the grace, mercy, and transforming power of Jesus Christ. God calls ordinary people, forgives past failures, and gives new purpose and direction.

The proper response to Christ’s call is immediate obedience, surrender, and commitment. Those who follow Jesus faithfully become transformed vessels through whom God touches and blesses others.

PRAYER POINTS

1. Lord, help me to respond to Your call with obedience and surrender in Jesus name

2. Father, transform every area of my life for Your glory in Jesus name

3. Lord, remove every attachment to my old life and sinful ways in Jesus name

4. Father, give me grace to follow You wholeheartedly in Jesus name

5. Lord, let Your mercy and favour speak over my life continually in Jesus name

6. Father, use my life as a testimony of transformation and grace in Jesus name

7. Lord, equip me for every assignment You have prepared for me in Jesus name

8. Father, help me to show mercy and compassion toward others in Jesus name

9. Lord, make me fruitful and effective in Your Kingdom in Jesus name

10. Father, let my life bring honour and glory to Your name continually in Jesus name

PROPHETIC DECLARATIONS

1. The grace and call of God shall locate and transform your life!

2. Every limitation connected to your past is broken permanently!

3. God shall give you a new beginning filled with purpose and direction!

4. You shall walk faithfully in God’s calling upon your life!

5. Divine mercy and favour shall continually speak for you!

6. Your life shall become a testimony of God’s transforming power!

7. God shall equip and strengthen you for every assignment ahead!

8. Every distraction and hindrance to your spiritual growth is removed!

9. You shall bear lasting fruit in the Kingdom of God!

10. Your life shall glorify God and draw others closer to Christ!