Matthias
Israelite / Jew Jewish · Early Church · New Testament
- Name means
- 'gift of God'
- Role
- Apostle chosen to replace Judas Iscariot
- When
- c. AD 30-33
What they did
A disciple who had been with Jesus from John's baptism to the ascension; after prayer, the lot fell on him and he was numbered with the eleven apostles.
Why it matters: the purpose of their role
His choosing restored the Twelve as witnesses of the resurrection before the Spirit was poured out at Pentecost.
And they gave forth their lots; and the lot fell upon Matthias; and he was numbered with the eleven apostles. Acts 1:26 (KJV)
Bible references
Wherefore of these men which have companied with us all the time that the Lord Jesus went in and out among us, Beginning from the baptism of John, unto that same day that he was taken up from us, must one be ordained to be a witness with us of his resurrection. And they appointed two, Joseph called Barsabas, who was surnamed Justus, and Matthias. Acts 1:21-23 (KJV)
And they prayed, and said, Thou, Lord, which knowest the hearts of all men, shew whether of these two thou hast chosen, That he may take part of this ministry and apostleship, from which Judas by transgression fell, that he might go to his own place. Acts 1:24-25 (KJV)
And they gave forth their lots; and the lot fell upon Matthias; and he was numbered with the eleven apostles. Acts 1:26 (KJV)
Family
Scripture records little about this person's family.