The other Evangelists in this pair of names put Matthew before Thomas; and do not add, “the Publican,” that they should not seem to throw scorn upon the Evangelist by bringing to mind his former life. But writing of himself he both puts Thomas first in the pair, and styles himself “the Publican;” because, “where sin hath abounded, there grace shall much more abound.” [Rom 5:20]
Reproduced in full. Translation: Oxford 1841 (Newman), public domain (Public domain).