Scholars and commentators are practically unanimous in identifying the Matthew whose call is recorded in Matthew 9:9, with the Levi whose call is recorded in Mark 2:14 and Luke 5:27. The reasons for this identification are obvious and compelling. In each account it is a telones, i.e., a tax-gatherer or customs officer, who is called. In each account the words of the call are precisely the same. In each account there is the story of a great feast given to celebrate the call. The conclusion is inevitable, that Levi, the Son of Alphaeus, and Matthew were one and the same person.
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Author: J. D. Jones
Keywords: Matthew, Levi, publican, disciples of Jesus, Matthew the publican, receipt of custom
Bible reference(s): Matthew 9:9, Mark 2:14, Luke 5:27
Source: “Matthew the Publican,” The Testimony, Vol. 16, No. 183, March 1946, p. 66.
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