New Testament · Gospel

Matthew 10:3

Sent Out Like Sheep

Philip and Bartholomew; Thomas and Matthew the tax collector; James son of Alphaeus, and Thaddaeus; Matthew 10:3 · Berean Standard Bible

What It Means

Matthew 10:3, in plain English

Philip and Bartholomew, Thomas and Matthew the tax collector, James son of Alphaeus, and Thaddaeus.

Why it's here

Notice that Matthew identifies himself as 'the tax collector.' He never forgot where he came from or the grace that found him.

Who's speaking

Matthew, continuing the list with humility.

Where it sits in the story

This diverse group shows that Jesus doesn't pick people based on their resumes but on His purposes for them.

A Closer Look

The scholarly reading

The list continues with Philip, Bartholomew, Thomas, Matthew (identified as the telones/tax collector), James son of Alphaeus, and Thaddaeus.

Language and setting

Matthew's self-identification as 'the tax collector' is notable humility, preserving his shameful former identity even after his calling.

Voice

Matthew, continuing the apostle list.

Significance

The diversity of the group, from fishermen to a tax collector, demonstrates that Jesus' kingdom transcends social boundaries.

In context

Matthew 10:1–5

1And calling His twelve disciples to Him, Jesus gave them authority over unclean spirits, so that they could drive them out and heal every disease and sickness.

2These are the names of the twelve apostles: first Simon, called Peter, and his brother Andrew; James son of Zebedee, and his brother John;

3Philip and Bartholomew; Thomas and Matthew the tax collector; James son of Alphaeus, and Thaddaeus;

4Simon the Zealot, and Judas Iscariot, who betrayed Jesus.

5These twelve Jesus sent out with the following instructions: “Do not go onto the road of the Gentiles or enter any town of the Samaritans.

Read all of Matthew 10 — Jesus hands his authority to twelve ordinary men and sends them into a hostile world. The mission briefing is searingly honest.

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