New Testament
Mark 2:14
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
As he walked along, he noticed Levi son of Alphaeus sitting at his tax collection booth. Jesus said to him, "Follow me." Levi got up and followed him.
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And as he passed by, he saw Levi the son of Alphaeus sitting at the receipt of custom, and said unto him, Follow me. And he arose and followed him.
What Mark 2:14 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this passage, Jesus is walking along and sees Levi, who is a tax collector, sitting at his booth. Tax collectors were often despised by the Jewish people because they worked for the Roman government and were known for cheating others. Despite this, Jesus calls Levi to follow him, showing that he welcomes all people, regardless of their past or social status. Levi responds immediately, leaving his job and life behind to follow Jesus. This moment highlights the transformative power of Jesus' call and the willingness of individuals to change their lives in response to it. It also emphasizes the theme of inclusion, as Jesus reaches out to those who are marginalized and considered sinners. Levi's decision to follow Jesus marks the beginning of a new journey, illustrating the importance of faith and obedience in responding to God's call.
How to apply Mark 2:14 to your life
This passage encourages us to be open to God's call in our lives, no matter our past or current situation. It reminds us that following Jesus may require leaving behind familiar comforts, but it leads to a more fulfilling purpose. We should also be inclusive and welcoming to others, just as Jesus was.
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Illustrated scene from Jesus's story: Calling Matthew (Mark 2:13–17)
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Photo: Gary Todd (Gary Lee Todd, Ph.D.), via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC0 1.0 Universal Public Domain Dedication. Source. Location: Southern end of the Temple Mount, Jerusalem Old City. Resized for the web.
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Keep studying Mark 2:14
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Key themes
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At a Glance — the Book of Mark
- Author
- John Mark
- Written
- Around AD 55-65
- Genre
- Gospel
- Original Audience
- Roman and Gentile Christians
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
Who was Levi in Mark 2:14?
Levi, also known as Matthew, was a tax collector sitting at his booth when Jesus called him to follow. Tax collectors were often viewed negatively by the Jewish community because they collected taxes for the Roman Empire and were known for dishonest practices. Levi's calling by Jesus signifies the acceptance of those marginalized by society.
What does Jesus' call to Levi signify?
Jesus' call to Levi signifies the inclusivity of His ministry. By choosing a tax collector, who was despised by many, Jesus demonstrates that His message and grace are available to all, regardless of their past or social status. This act challenges societal norms and emphasizes the transformative power of following Christ.
What can we learn from Levi's response to Jesus?
Levi's immediate response to Jesus' call teaches us about the importance of obedience and faith. He left his job and familiar life behind to follow Jesus, illustrating that true discipleship often requires sacrifice and a willingness to embrace change. It encourages us to respond promptly to God's call in our own lives.
How does this passage relate to the theme of transformation?
This passage highlights transformation through Levi's decision to leave his tax booth and follow Jesus. It illustrates how an encounter with Christ can lead to a radical change in one's life direction. Levi's journey from a despised tax collector to a disciple of Jesus exemplifies the profound impact of faith and the possibility of new beginnings.
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