Commentary on Luke 6:15

Verse Context: Luke 6:15 mentions one of the chosen apostles, Matthew, whose original name was Levi. This verse is significant in understanding the nature of Jesus's calling and the diverse backgrounds of His disciples.

Historical and Cultural Background

The calling of Matthew, a tax collector, illustrates a profound theme in the Gospels: the inclusivity of Jesus's ministry. Tax collectors were often despised in Jewish society for collaborating with the Roman authorities and for their perceived dishonesty. Yet, Jesus's choice of Matthew demonstrates His willingness to extend grace to all, regardless of their past.

Insights from Public Domain Commentaries

Matthew Henry’s Commentary

“Matthew was a publican; he was one of those persons that were generally hated, and he was a man of wealth and position. His calling was despised because of the nature of the work he did; a tax collector was somewhat akin to a traitor.” Henry points out the radical nature of Matthew's conversion. He notes that Jesus not only called Matthew but also transformed him into an instrument of His Gospel. The act of calling a publican signifies the breaking down of barriers that separate the righteous from the sinners.

Albert Barnes’ Notes on the Bible

“The name ‘Matthew’ means ‘gift of God.’ His calling signifies God’s grace being extended to those society viewed as outcasts. This calling teaches us that no one is beyond redemption, and it serves as a reminder that the church is a collection of redeemed sinners.” Barnes elaborates on the implications of Matthew's role in the ministry, emphasizing how he, despite his previous life, became a vital part of Jesus's mission.

Adam Clarke’s Commentary

“The character of this man was such as not to be esteemed by the Jewish people. Yet, upon his call, he rose to forsake his wealth and position, showing the genuine transformation that occurs when one answers God's call.” Clarke emphasizes the transformative power of the Gospel, which enabled Matthew to abandon his lucrative career as a tax collector to follow Christ.

Theological Implications

The calling of Matthew presents various theological implications:

• Grace and Redemption: The verse highlights that God’s grace is available to all, including those who have strayed far from societal norms.
• Transformation: Matthew’s drastic change from tax collector to apostle shows that true encounters with Christ lead to meaningful transformations.
• Diversity of the Disciples: This verse teaches that Jesus’s followers came from varied backgrounds, emphasizing God’s ability to use anyone for His purposes.

Practical Applications for Pastors and Believers

From Luke 6:15, there are several practical applications that can be drawn for both pastors and believers:

• Inclusivity in Ministry: Churches should embrace individuals from all walks of life and backgrounds, recognizing that everyone is capable of being transformed into a disciple.
• Encouragement in Outreach: Pastors should take courage from Matthew's calling to pursue evangelism and outreach efforts, knowing that the grace of God can touch even the most unlikely individuals.
• Personal Reflection: Believers should reflect on their own stories of grace and redemption, using them to testify and encourage others in their spiritual journeys.

Conclusion

Luke 6:15 serves as a powerful reminder of Jesus's mission on Earth: to call the broken and the outcast. Through the lens of Matthew's calling, we see God's heart for humanity and His desire to cultivate a diverse family of believers. For pastors, students, and scholars, this verse offers a rich foundation for understanding the nature of discipleship and the transformative power of encountering Christ.