Who Was Matthias in the Bible?
Man Living at the Time of the New Testament
Matthias is a significant figure in the New Testament, mentioned specifically in the book of Acts. He was one of the candidates considered to replace Judas Iscariot among the twelve apostles after Judas betrayed Jesus and subsequently died. The remaining apostles, led by Peter, sought a replacement to restore the number of apostles to twelve, as originally established by Jesus. Matthias, along with Barsabbas (also known as Justus), was proposed as a candidate. After prayer and the casting of lots, Matthias was chosen to join the eleven apostles.
Biblical Reference: Acts 1:23-26
“So they proposed two men: Joseph called Barsabbas (also known as Justus) and Matthias. Then they prayed, ‘Lord, you know everyone’s heart. Show us which of these two you have chosen to take over this apostolic ministry, which Judas left to go where he belongs.’ Then they cast lots, and the lot fell to Matthias; so he was added to the eleven apostles.” (NIV)
The Selection of Matthias
The process of selecting Matthias was significant. The apostles recognized the importance of maintaining the number of twelve apostles, symbolizing the twelve tribes of Israel and representing the foundation of the new covenant community. They sought divine guidance through prayer and the casting of lots, demonstrating their reliance on God’s sovereignty and direction.
The Role of Casting Lots
Casting lots was a common practice in ancient Israel to discern God’s will. It was used to make decisions that required divine guidance. In the case of Matthias, the apostles prayed for God to reveal His choice, showing their trust in His wisdom and sovereignty.
Biblical Reference: Proverbs 16:33
“The lot is cast into the lap, but its every decision is from the LORD.” (NIV)
Matthias’ Apostolic Ministry
Although Matthias is not mentioned extensively in the Bible beyond his selection as an apostle, his inclusion among the twelve is significant. As an apostle, Matthias would have been involved in spreading the gospel, teaching, and establishing the early church. His role underscores the importance of apostolic authority and the continuation of the ministry that Jesus established.
Lessons for the Modern Christian
The Importance of Apostolic Authority
Matthias’ selection highlights the importance of apostolic authority in the early church. The apostles were foundational to the church, tasked with teaching, guiding, and establishing Christian doctrine. Modern Christians can learn the importance of adhering to the teachings of the apostles, as recorded in the New Testament, to maintain sound doctrine and faithfulness to the gospel.
Biblical Reference: Ephesians 2:19-20
“Consequently, you are no longer foreigners and strangers, but fellow citizens with God’s people and also members of his household, built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Christ Jesus himself as the chief cornerstone.” (NIV)
Seeking God’s Guidance
The apostles’ reliance on prayer and the casting of lots to select Matthias emphasizes the importance of seeking God’s guidance in decision-making. Modern believers are encouraged to seek God’s will through prayer, Scripture, and the counsel of mature Christians when making important decisions.
Biblical Reference: James 1:5
“If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.” (NIV)
The Call to Faithfulness
Matthias’ story teaches the value of faithfulness and readiness. He was likely a faithful follower of Jesus from the beginning, which qualified him to be considered as an apostle. Modern Christians are called to be faithful in their walk with Christ, ready to serve when called upon.
Biblical Reference: 1 Corinthians 4:2
“Now it is required that those who have been given a trust must prove faithful.” (NIV)
Connection to a Loving God
God’s Sovereignty and Guidance
The selection of Matthias through prayer and casting lots underscores God’s sovereignty and active guidance in the lives of His people. This reassures believers that God is intimately involved in their lives and can be trusted to guide them in their decisions.
Biblical Reference: Proverbs 3:5-6
“Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.” (NIV)
Assurance of God’s Plan
Matthias’ inclusion among the apostles demonstrates that God’s plans are perfect and that He equips and appoints individuals according to His purpose. This assures Christians that they have a place in God’s plan and that He will equip them for the roles He calls them to.
Biblical Reference: Jeremiah 29:11
“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” (NIV)
Connection to Jesus Christ
Continuation of Jesus’ Ministry
Matthias’ role as an apostle highlights the continuation of Jesus’ ministry through His followers. The apostles were entrusted with spreading the teachings of Jesus and establishing the church, showing that the work of Christ continues through His followers.
Biblical Reference: Matthew 28:19-20
“Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” (NIV)
Faithfulness to the Apostolic Witness
Matthias’ selection emphasizes the importance of faithfulness to the apostolic witness. The teachings and testimony of the apostles, recorded in the New Testament, are the foundation of Christian faith and practice. Believers are called to adhere to these teachings and faithfully pass them on.
Biblical Reference: Acts 2:42
“They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer.” (NIV)
Conclusion
Matthias, chosen to replace Judas Iscariot among the twelve apostles, plays a significant role in the New Testament. His selection highlights the importance of apostolic authority, the necessity of seeking God’s guidance, and the call to faithfulness. For modern Christians, Matthias’ story underscores the value of adhering to apostolic teachings, trusting in God’s sovereignty, and being faithful in their walk with Christ. Through Matthias, we see God’s continued work in guiding His church and fulfilling His redemptive plan through Jesus Christ.