Matthias (Mattityahu) is a significant yet somewhat enigmatic figure in early Christianity. He was chosen by the remaining eleven apostles to replace Judas Iscariot after Judas betrayed Jesus and took his own life. His selection was recorded in Acts 1:15-26, where Peter, citing Psalms, declared that another should take Judas' place. The apostles then cast lots, and Matthias was chosen over Joseph called Barsabbas (also known as Justus).
Matthias’ Background
His Hebrew name, Mattityahu (מַתִּתְיָהוּ), means "Gift of Yahweh."
He was likely one of the seventy disciples mentioned in Luke 10:1-20, whom Jesus sent out in pairs to preach the Kingdom of God.
He had been with Jesus from the beginning of His ministry, as Acts 1:21-22 states that the new apostle had to be someone who had accompanied Jesus from His baptism by John until His ascension.
Matthias’ Ministry After Becoming an Apostle
Missionary Work: Though little is said about Matthias in the New Testament after his selection, later Christian traditions suggest he preached in Judea, Cappadocia (modern Turkey), the Caspian region, and Ethiopia (not the African nation but a region near Colchis, in present-day Georgia).Martyrdom: Various traditions suggest he died as a martyr:
One account says he was stoned by the Jews in Jerusalem and then beheaded.
Another suggests he was crucified in Colchis.
Some later sources claim he was stoned and beheaded in Ethiopia.
Writings and Legacy
There was an apocryphal "Gospel of Matthias" that existed in the 2nd century, but it was later considered heretical by the early church fathers like Origen and Eusebius.
Some traditions associate him with the early Gnostic movements, but these claims are debated.
Final Thoughts
Matthias stands as a testament to God's sovereign will in leadership and the continuation of Christ’s mission through the apostles. Though he is less known than Peter, John, or Paul, his appointment affirms that God's work does not end with betrayal and failure—He raises up faithful servants to continue His mission.