Before Matthew ever picked up a pen to write about Jesus, he was a tax collector—disdained, labeled a traitor, and viewed as spiritually beyond repair. Then Jesus walked by his booth, looked him in the eye, and said two words: "Follow Me."

Welcome to the premiere episode of our new series, The Hope of Matthew. We kick off this verse-by-verse journey through the Gospel of Matthew by stepping back to examine the power of a transformed life.

In this foundational episode, Robert shares his own personal testimony alongside the story of the Gospel writer himself. We look at how a corrupt tax collector left everything behind at a moment's notice to follow the Messiah, proving from day one that the Gospel isn't for those who think they have it all together—it is a lifeline for the sinner, the outsider, and the broken.

Whether you feel unworthy, weighed down by your past, or uncertain of God's plan for your life, this episode is a clear, urgent reminder that Jesus meets us right where we are—and His call changes everything.

This Christian podcast episode unpacks:➡️ The background of Matthew the tax collector and why his calling shocked society➡️ Robert's personal testimony: How God turns our past mistakes into a platform for His glory➡️ Why the Gospel of Matthew was written to prove Jesus is the promised King and Messiah➡️ The power of Jesus' simple invitation to leave the old life behind and step into true hope

Hit play to start this new journey with us as we uncover the relentless grace, authority, and hope found in the Gospel of Matthew.

Scripture Focus:Matthew 9:9–13, Luke 5:27–32

Support & Connect:🌐 Website: https://www.iammatthewministries.org💙 Donate on Venmo: https://www.venmo.com/u/IAmMatthewMinistries📧 Email: robert@iammatthewministries.org