In Episode 36 of the Chasing Assurance Podcast, Terry and Dr. Terry L. Peer continue their Apostle series by diving into the powerful and redemptive story of Matthew — the tax collector who left everything to follow Jesus. Study Guide Link: https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/e3e5dwebalpg9g8pf044t/Study-Guide-Chasing-Assurance-35.pdf?rlkey=q68jb0qrcr22bn8mcv12t74ze&dl=0 Matthew, also known as Levi ben Alphaeus, was not just a tax collector — he was considered a traitor to his own people. He purchased a tax franchise and likely collected taxes in Capernaum for Herod Antipas. Yet when Jesus walked by his booth and said, “Follow Me,” Matthew got up and left it all behind. It’s just like Jesus… to choose a tax collector. In this episode, we explore: - What it meant to be a “publican” in first-century Israel - Why Matthew’s calling would have shocked the other disciples - The banquet Matthew threw for sinners and outcasts - Jesus’ famous words: “I did not come to call the righteous, but sinners” - Why Matthew was uniquely positioned to write the first Gospel - The seven great sermons recorded in Matthew’s Gospel - The treasure hidden in the field — and what it reveals about Matthew’s life Matthew may not be mentioned much after the Resurrection, but he became the first Gospel writer — the one chosen by the Holy Spirit to present Jesus as King and Messiah to the Jewish people who once despised him. If Jesus could choose Matthew… He can choose you. Be sure to download the Study Guide linked below and follow along as we continue through the Twelve Ordinary Men Jesus used to change the world. All Scripture references are from the New American Standard Bible (NASB) unless otherwise noted. The views and teachings presented in this podcast are intended for biblical study, spiritual growth, and encouragement. While historical sources and scholarly materials may be referenced, the primary authority for this content is the Word of God. Chasing Assurance Podcast is a production of Chasing Giants LLC. © Chasing Giants LLC. All rights reserved. No portion of this broadcast, audio, video, transcript, or written material may be reproduced, redistributed, or transmitted in any form or by any means without the prior written permission of Chasing Giants LLC.