Matthew 10:3 (KJV)

What does Matthew 10:3 mean?

Matthew 10:3 lists several of the twelve disciples chosen by Jesus: Philip, Bartholomew, Thomas, Matthew (noted as a tax collector), James the son of Alphaeus, and Lebbaeus, who was also called Thaddaeus. This verse is part of a longer passage where Jesus’ closest followers are named one by one.

In this section, Jesus is speaking to His disciples as He prepares to send them out on a mission. The verse highlights the diversity among the disciples, mentioning their names and, in Matthew’s case, his former occupation as a tax collector. The inclusion of alternative names for some disciples (like Lebbaeus, also called Thaddaeus) shows that some of them were known by more than one name, which was common in that time and region.

The Greek behind Matthew 10:3

• "publican" (τελώνης, telōnēs): This word means "tax collector." Mentioning Matthew as a tax collector emphasizes his background, which was often looked down upon in Jewish society, highlighting the varied backgrounds of Jesus’ followers.
• "Lebbaeus" (Λεββαῖος, Lebbaios) and "Thaddaeus" (Θαδδαῖος, Thaddaios): The Greek shows that Lebbaeus and Thaddaeus are two names for the same person. This helps clarify that the lists of disciples in the Gospels sometimes use different names for the same individual.

Why Matthew 10:3 matters

• This verse helps clear up confusion about the identities of the disciples, especially when comparing the different Gospel accounts that sometimes use alternate names.
• By mentioning Matthew’s occupation as a tax collector, the verse reminds readers that Jesus called people from all walks of life, including those who were not respected by society.
• The listing of names connects this passage to the broader context of Jesus sending out the twelve, showing the specific individuals He entrusted with His message.