Have you ever considered that some of Jesus’ disciples probably held vastly different political beliefs views from each other? Most likely Simon the Zealot and Matthew the tax collector did! The Jewish sect known Zealots were a radical Jewish political movement that vehemently opposed Roman rule in Judea, even causing the First Jewish-Roman War. They were extremely “zealous for God,” known for their militant resistance, and believed that God would help them expel Roman control. There was also subgroup within their ranks, known as the Sicarii, who used daggers to assassinate Romans and anyone they considered collaborators. Tax collectors, also known as “Publicans” (Latin publicanus) were Jews who collected taxes from fellow Jews for the Roman Empire. They were deeply despised and unpopular among their countrymen because they were seen as traitors and collaborators with the occupying oppressors, Rome. They also enriched themselves by overcharging their own people. Simon the Zealot and Matthew the tax collector could not be more politically opposite from each other. One hated Rome, and one worked for Caesar! Two opposing views.
Yet, Jesus called both of them to be His disciples. Each one heard the words, “Follow me” from Jesus (Matthew 9:9; Luke 9:59; John 1:43). Each had to make a decision to leave all behind and follow Him. Jesus was not concerned about their political views. He was more concerned about their souls. He chose each them to specifically serve God’s purposes and they went! “For many are called, but few are chosen.” (Matthew 22:14)
It is certain that each knew what the other did and thought concerning the political realm of the day before they became disciples. People talked about politics back then just as passionately as they do today. However, it is certain that as Simon the Zealot and Matthew learned from Jesus and grew closer to God, they must have changed how they felt about each other. How could they not? Jesus sent them out two by two to preach the kingdom of heaven and salvation (Matthew 10; Luke 10:1-12) Did their political beliefs keep them from working beside each other? Could you imagine two political opposites preaching about Jesus … together?
Today, we have modern versions of Zealots and Tax Collectors in the church. It is no secret that many people in this country have vastly different political views – some hate the government, some support the government, and every nuance in between. It is blatantly obvious that many hold deep contempt, or worse feelings, toward those they deem “opposite” of themselves. There are members within the Lord’s church who hold opposing political views from each other. But the truth is, political views will save no one. Only Jesus can do that (John 14:6; Acts 4:12). Simon and Matthew knew that and their example should be a guide for us also.
We must always “love our neighbor as ourselves” (Matthew 22:39). Never are we to condone sinful or harmful views or actions, but instead “speak the truth in love,” (Ephesians 4:15) meaning to do so without all the vitriol, bitterness, and arrogance. Remember, “a servant of the Lord must not quarrel but be gentle to all, able to teach, patient,” (2 Timothy 2:24). Let us be more like Jesus and be more concerned about matters of souls rather than the affairs of the state. If Simon and Matthew can be on opposite sides of politics and learn to work together and serve God together, so can we! Don’t let politics get between you (or anyone) and heaven!