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The Spirit of Prophecy Volume 2
indignation knew no bounds when one of their own people so far forgot
the honor of his exalted race as to accept the office of tax-gatherer.
Those who thus assisted to sustain the Roman authority were
considered apostate. The Jews regarded it as degrading to associate
in any way with a publican. They considered the office identical with
oppression and extortion. But the mind of Jesus was not molded after
the prejudices of the Pharisees. He looked below the surface and read
the heart. His divine eye saw in Matthew one whom he could use for
the establishment of his church. This man had listened to the teachings
of Christ, and had been attracted to him. His heart was full of reverence
for the Saviour, but the thought had never entered the mind of Matthew
that this great Teacher would condescend to notice him, much less
choose him as a disciple. Therefore his astonishment was great when
Jesus addressed him with the words, “Follow me.”
Without a doubtful murmur, or question as to his consequent pecu-
niary loss, Matthew rose up and followed his Master, and united his
interest with the few disciples of Jesus. The despised publican felt that
the Saviour had bestowed upon him an honor which he did not deserve.
He gave no thought to the lucrative business he had exchanged for
poverty and fatigue. It was enough that he would be in the presence of
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Christ, that he could learn wisdom and goodness from his lips, behold
his marvelous works, and be a co-laborer with him in his arduous toil.
Matthew was wealthy, but he was willing to sacrifice all for his
Master. He had many friends and acquaintances whom he was anxious
should become followers of Jesus, and he was desirous that they should
have an opportunity to meet him. He felt certain that they would be
charmed with his pure and simple doctrine, taught without ostentation
or display.
He accordingly made a feast at his own house and called together
his friends and relatives, among whom were a number of publicans.
Jesus was invited as a guest, in whose honor the feast was prepared.
He, with his disciples, accepted the courteous invitation, and graced
the banquet with his presence. The envious scribes and Pharisees, who
were ever watching and following the movements of Jesus, did not
lose this opportunity of seeking to condemn the cause of Christ.
They were highly indignant that one who called himself a Jew
should mingle with publicans. Though they refused to acknowledge
him the Messiah, and would accept none of his teachings, yet they