Matthias the Apostle
1st century AD
Disciple selected by lot in Acts to join the Eleven after Judas Iscariot's death and restore the symbolic number of the Twelve.
Life and Historical Setting
Acts says Matthias had accompanied Jesus's followers from the baptism of John through the ascension. Joseph Barsabbas and Matthias were nominated, the community prayed, and the lot fell to Matthias.
Work and Contribution
His selection shows the importance Acts assigns to continuity, eyewitness qualification, communal discernment, and the restored Twelve as a sign of renewed Israel. No later action of Matthias appears in the New Testament.
Reception and Influence
Later traditions place his mission and death in several different regions and attach writings to his name. Churches commemorate him liturgically, but the accounts cannot be harmonized with confidence.
Evidence, Debate, and Interpretation
Some interpreters contrast Matthias with Paul, suggesting the community chose prematurely, but Acts does not criticize the selection. Paul's different calling need not imply that Matthias was considered invalid.
Known For
- Replacement of Judas
- Witness to the Resurrection
- Acts 1
Influenced By
- Jesus of Nazareth
- Apostolic Community
Influenced
- Apostolic Tradition
Conversations
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