Matthias

Technical Profile

Name Meaning: From Hebrew Mattityahu (“gift of Yahweh”), reflected in Greek Maththias
Period/Era: Early Church (Apostolic Age)
Main References: Acts 1:15–26
Key Connections: The Eleven apostles; Joseph called Barsabbas (Justus); the Jerusalem church

Who was Matthias?

Matthias was a disciple who had accompanied Jesus’ public ministry from John’s baptism onward.
He was nominated with Joseph called Barsabbas (Justus) to fill the vacancy among the Twelve.
After prayer, he was chosen by lot and “numbered with the eleven apostles.”

Key Events & Achievements

Chosen to replace Judas: Selected by lot after the community prayed for God to reveal his choice (Acts 1:23–26).
Met apostolic qualifications: Recognized as a continuous companion of Jesus and a witness to the resurrection (Acts 1:21–22).
Added to the Twelve: Publicly counted with the apostles, restoring the Twelve in the Jerusalem community (Acts 1:26).

Life Lesson & Legacy

Matthias illustrates the early church’s emphasis on qualified witness to Jesus and communal discernment in appointing leadership.

Key Verse

“And they cast lots for them, and the lot fell on Matthias, and he was numbered with the eleven apostles.” — Acts 1:26, ESV

Quizzes

Answer the questions below. When you choose an option, you will see the result and an explanation.

1. How was Matthias selected to fill the vacancy among the Twelve?

2. Which person was nominated alongside Matthias to fill the vacancy among the Twelve?