Matthew on Money

By Rev. LAWRENCE KEISTER, D. D.
By Rev. Lawrence Keister, D. D.
The occupational training of Matthew is plainly perceptible in the gospel he has written. When he left the receipt of custom to become a follower of Christ and then an apostle and even a gospel historian he carried with him his financial bent and ability. He always speaks of money with the accuracy and discrimination of a man who is accustomed to its possession and use.
Matthew alone of the four gospel writers mentions the visit of the Wise Men. They came a great distance in search of him who was born King of the Jews. They knew him on sight, fell down and worshiped him, and opened their treasures and offered unto him gifts, gold and frankincense and myrrh. They give while they are in his presence and while they are in the spirit of worship.
Their purpose was threefold, to see the King, to worship him and to offer gifts to him. The sight of the Christ, infant as he was, called forth the whole program. There was no other appeal. Their giving was a part of their confession of faith. This is the King whom they came to accept and honor. They are not mistaken nor in doubt. They behold and worship and give.
When men open their hearts they also open their treasures. “No man becomes honest” says Frederick W. Robertson, “till he gets face to face with God.” Delusion vanishes then and there and opportunity appears. Then men prize their privilege. Come to Christ, worship him and go without giving? When men come into the presence of Christ as did the Wise Men they fail not nor falter but act in a way that meets expectations.
In his fourth chapter Matthew tells how Satan proposed to give the world to Christ, a great offer and fitting in a sense but one our Lord could not accept on the terms stated or from this would-be giver. How could he receive a gift from Satan without being subordinated to him? How can a Christian do this same thing without change of character and loss of life?