Definition

1. Proper noun:
   • A disciple of Jesus: Matthew was one of the twelve apostles of Jesus Christ in the New Testament. Christian tradition holds that he is the author of the Gospel of Matthew.
   • A book of the New Testament: "Matthew" is the name of the first book of the New Testament in the Christian Bible, which details the life, teachings, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ.

Usage Examples

• Proper noun (Person):
  • In the Bible, Matthew was a tax collector before becoming an apostle.
  • The calling of Matthew is a significant story in the Gospels.
• Proper noun (Book):
  • The Sermon on the Mount is found in the Gospel of Matthew.
  • She is studying the parables in Matthew.

Advanced Usage

• "The Gospel according to Matthew": A formal or traditional title for the Book of Matthew.
  • The earliest manuscripts are titled "The Gospel according to Matthew".
• "Matthew effect": A sociological term coined by Robert K. Merton, referring to the principle where advantage tends to accumulate (e.g., "the rich get richer"). It is derived from a verse in the Gospel of Matthew (25:29).
  • The Matthew effect is often observed in academic citation patterns.

Variants and Related Words

• Matthean (adjective): Pertaining to the Gospel of Matthew or its traditional author.
  • Scholars debate the Matthean community.
• St. Matthew: A common title used when referring to Matthew as a saint.
  • The feast day of St. Matthew is celebrated in September.

Synonyms

• Apostle Matthew (for the person).
• The First Gospel (for the book).

Related Idioms

• "The Publican and Sinner": A reference to Matthew's former profession as a tax collector (publican) and his transformation, often used to symbolize redemption.
  • He identified with the story of the Publican and Sinner, finding hope in change.

Noun

1. one of the Gospels in the New Testament; includes the Sermon on the Mount
2. (New Testament) disciple of Jesus; traditionally considered to be the author of the first Gospel