The choosing of Matthias as an apostle is a significant event recorded in the New Testament, specifically in the Book of Acts. This event marks the first instance of apostolic succession and highlights the early church's commitment to maintaining the number of the Twelve Apostles following the betrayal and death of Judas Iscariot.

Biblical Account

The account of Matthias's selection is found in Acts 1:15-26. After Jesus' ascension, approximately 120 believers gathered in Jerusalem, including the remaining eleven apostles. Peter, taking a leadership role, addressed the assembly regarding the need to fill the vacancy left by Judas. He cited Scripture to justify this action, referencing Psalms: "For it is written in the Book of Psalms: 'May his place be deserted; let there be no one to dwell in it,' and, 'May another take his position.'" (Acts 1:20).

Criteria for Selection

Peter outlined the criteria for the new apostle: the candidate must have been with Jesus and the apostles from the time of John the Baptist's ministry until Jesus' ascension. This requirement ensured that the new apostle could bear witness to the entirety of Jesus' earthly ministry and His resurrection. Two men were proposed: Joseph called Barsabbas (also known as Justus) and Matthias.

Casting Lots

The early church sought divine guidance in making their decision. They prayed, "Lord, You know everyone's heart. Show us which of these two You have chosen to take up this ministry and apostleship, which Judas abandoned to go to his rightful place." (Acts 1:24-25). They then cast lots, a common biblical method for discerning God's will, and the lot fell to Matthias, who was thereby numbered with the eleven apostles.

Significance

The selection of Matthias underscores the importance of apostolic witness and continuity in the early church. By choosing someone who had been with Jesus from the beginning, the apostles ensured that their testimony about Jesus' life, death, and resurrection remained consistent and credible. This event also reflects the early church's reliance on prayer and divine guidance in decision-making processes.

Matthias in Tradition

While Matthias is not mentioned elsewhere in the New Testament, early church tradition holds that he continued to serve faithfully as an apostle. Various accounts suggest he preached the Gospel in regions such as Judea, Cappadocia, and Ethiopia. His martyrdom is also attested in some traditions, though details vary.

The choosing of Matthias is a testament to the early church's dedication to preserving the integrity and mission of the apostolic ministry, ensuring that the message of Jesus Christ was faithfully transmitted to future generations.