Matthew
PeopleWhat is the meaning of Matthew in the Bible?
Matthew, also known as Levi, was a tax collector in Capernaum who was called by Jesus to become one of the twelve apostles; his name translates to 'gift of Yahweh' and he is traditionally identified as the author of the Gospel of Matthew.
SIGNIFICANCE
Understanding Matthew's background as a tax collector clarifies the social stigma he overcame and highlights the Gospel's emphasis on Jesus' mission to include marginalized groups, while his authorship provides the primary narrative framework for the life and teachings of Jesus in the New Testament.
Bible Study Quick-Reference Guide
Genealogy & Community Insight: When reading, notice how the lineage and actions of Matthew reveal God's preservation of family clans and community records across generations.
Bible Study Reflection Prompts:
- Why did the biblical author mention Matthew in this passage?
- What cultural or historical assumption does Matthew clarify?
Source Attribution
Built upon the 1915 International Standard Bible Encyclopedia and Easton's Bible Dictionary (1897). Entries have been modernized, checked for academic truthfulness, and shortened for clarity.
How to Cite This Entry
"Matthew." Ancient Context Dictionary. Accessed 2026. https://ancientcontext.com/context/matthew/