In chapter 9 of Matthew, it is the tax collector, and thus sinner par excellence, who is called to follow Jesus; it is he who responds without hesitation; and most importantly, it is he who is seated at table with Jesus alongside other sinners, merely through God’s grace, which proves to be a stumbling block to the religious authorities. It is this same Matthew that the author will name again in chapter 10 as one whom Jesus sends out to do the work of teaching, preaching and healing. Thus, the text of the gospel of Matthew reinforces the teaching in Romans that all are in need of God’s mercy; in doing so it also shows the character Matthew to be the exemplary disciple and apostle. Join me in a discussion of Matthew 9:9-13.

Original intro and outro music arranged and performed by Raphael Shaheen.
The Rise of Scripture by Paul Nadim Tarazi (2017).