### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word Matthaîos (`{{G3156}}`) is a transliteration of a Hebrew name, representing a shorter form of Matthitjah (or Mattathias). Its etymological root means "gift of Yahweh" or "gift of the Lord." As a proper noun, its primary semantic function is to identify a specific individual. However, the inherent meaning of the name itself carries significant theological resonance, pointing to divine grace and provision. While its direct meaning is limited to the person, the implications of being a "gift from God" are profound within a biblical context.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term Matthaîos (`{{G3156}}`) exclusively refers to Matthew, one of the twelve apostles of Jesus Christ. He is prominently mentioned in the Synoptic Gospels as a tax collector (or publican) who was called by Jesus to follow Him. This pivotal event is recorded in [[Matthew 9:9]], [[Mark 2:14]], and [[Luke 5:27]]. His profession as a tax collector made him an outcast in Jewish society, often viewed as a traitor and sinner due to his collaboration with the Roman authorities and the potential for extortion. Jesus' call to Matthew, therefore, powerfully demonstrates His inclusive ministry, reaching out to those marginalized and despised.
Matthew is consistently listed among the twelve apostles in the various New Testament catalogues: [[Matthew 10:3]], [[Mark 3:18]], [[Luke 6:15]], and [[Acts 1:13]]. Notably, in his own Gospel, Matthew humbly identifies himself as "Matthew the tax collector" ([[Matthew 10:3]]), a detail not explicitly added by Mark or Luke. This self-designation may serve as a perpetual reminder of his former life and the radical transformation wrought by Christ's call. His inclusion in the apostolic inner circle underscores the radical nature of the Gospel—God chooses and uses unexpected individuals, transforming their lives for His divine purposes.
### Related Words & Concepts
The name Matthaîos (`{{G3156}}`) is deeply connected to its Hebrew origin.
* **Matthitjah (Hebrew):** The underlying Hebrew name from which Matthaîos derives, meaning "gift of Yahweh." This direct etymological link firmly establishes Matthew's identity as a divine gift.
* **Matthat (`{{G3160}}`):** Another Greek name found in the genealogies (e.g., [[Luke 3:24]], [[Luke 3:29]]), also stemming from the same Hebrew root, reinforcing the prevalence of names signifying divine gifts within Israelite tradition.
* **Tax Collector (telōnēs, `{{G5057}}`):** This profession is central to Matthew's pre-conversion identity. It highlights the stark contrast between his former life of perceived sin and his new life of discipleship, emphasizing the transformative power of Jesus' call.
* **Apostle (apostoloi, `{{G652}}`):** As one of the twelve apostles, Matthew's role signifies being "one sent forth" with authority and a specific mission to bear witness to Jesus Christ and His kingdom.
* **Grace (charis, `{{G5485}}`)/Gift:** The etymological meaning "gift of Yahweh" resonates profoundly with the broader biblical themes of God's unmerited favor and His gracious provision of individuals for His service and the advancement of His kingdom.
### Theological Significance
The name Matthaîos (`{{G3156}}`), meaning "gift of Yahweh," holds profound theological significance, particularly when viewed through the lens of the apostle Matthew's life and ministry. His calling from the despised profession of a tax collector to an intimate disciple and apostle serves as a powerful testament to God's sovereign grace and transformative power. Matthew was not merely a recipient of God's gift (salvation and calling) but became, in turn, a profound gift *from* God to the early church and to all generations through his faithful witness and the Gospel account traditionally attributed to him.
His inclusion among the twelve apostles unequivocally demonstrates God's impartiality and His ability to redeem and utilize anyone, regardless of their past or social standing, for His kingdom purposes. This challenges human notions of worthiness and highlights the divine initiative in election and calling. The Gospel of Matthew itself, a foundational text for Christian understanding of Jesus as the Messiah and the nature of the Kingdom of Heaven, can be seen as a divine "gift" to the church, meticulously presenting Christ's teachings and the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecy. Matthew's life exemplifies the truth that God's gifts are not predicated on human merit but on divine purpose and unmerited favor.
### Summary
The Greek word Matthaîos (`{{G3156}}`) identifies Matthew, the apostle and evangelist, whose name etymologically signifies "gift of Yahweh." His background as a tax collector, uniquely highlighted in his own Gospel, underscores the radical grace and transformative power of Jesus' call. Matthew's life is a vivid illustration of God's ability to choose and empower unexpected individuals for His service, turning a socially ostracized figure into a foundational pillar of the early church. Both his personal journey of redemption and the Gospel account attributed to him stand as enduring testaments to God's sovereign grace, affirming that He not only bestows gifts upon humanity but also raises up individuals to be gifts to the world for the advancement of His divine purposes.
TRV