Through the Year with The Urantia Book: Week 1 of Year 4 "The Call of Matthew"

For adult study: "The Call of Matthew"

The story summary and questions were written in a way that makes it possible to use a New Testament reference in place of the Urantia reference. A selected chapter from a 1932 book, titled Treasure-House of the Living Religions, supports a spiritual theme that is found within the story. Children will use a one page handout that includes a coloring picture.

Paper 138:3
The Urantia Book

He arose and followed him

Students may read Paper 138:3

Jesus gradually gathered twelve men to be his disciples. One of those men was a publican named Matthew Levi. Jesus went to his tax booth in Capernaum and said, “Follow me.” Thus, Matthew left his work and became a disciple. Later, Matthew invited Jesus to a banquet in his home. Among the guests were people known as “publicans and sinners.” The Pharisees saw and disapproved of this. In answer to the Pharisees, Jesus said, “They who are whole need not a physician.”

Discussion Questions

Why did the Pharisees disapprove when they saw Jesus talking and eating with “publicans and sinners”? Jesus wanted to reach those who needed to be whole again. What does that mean? Jesus was friendly and good to everyone.

For Teachers

Procedure for using the PDF handouts with children

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Additional reading:

Paper 139:7

Read about Matthew Levi who was chosen by Andrew.

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Re: Friendliness

138:3.8 Jesus and the apostles remained that night in Matthew’s house, and as the people went to their homes, they spoke of but one thing: the goodness and friendliness of Jesus.

137:7.3 ... Andrew was tremendously impressed with the human naturalness of Jesus. He never grew weary of contemplating how one who could live so near God could be so friendly and considerate of men.

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Matthew 9:9-13

New Testament reference

Proper 5A

Revised Common Lectionary

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Treasure-House of the Living Religions

Chapter 3—The Divine Goodness and Wonder—p.11

Truly, thy Lord is full of goodness towards men. (Islam)

I have no friend like God, Who gave me soul and body,

and infused into me understanding.

He cherisheth, and watcheth over, all creatures. (Sikhism)