Matthias the Apostle

Lore & Background

There is no mention of Matthias among the lists of disciples in the synoptic gospels or the Gospel of John, but according to Acts, he had been with Jesus from his baptism by John until the Ascension. They chose Joseph called Barsabbas (surnamed Justus) and Matthias. After praying, they cast lots, and the lot fell to Matthias, so he was numbered with the eleven apostles. No further information about Matthias appears in the canonical New Testament; his name is variable, with some sources calling him 'Tolmai' or identifying him with Zacchaeus, Barnabas, or Nathanael.

Reader's Guide

Matthias's significance lies in his role as the apostle chosen to restore the number of the Twelve after Judas's defection, a process that emphasized divine guidance through the casting of lots. His story underscores the early church's concern for continuity and apostolic authority. However, all information concerning his ministry and death is vague and contradictory. Traditions vary widely: some say he preached in Cappadocia and near the Caspian Sea, others in Judaea and Ethiopia (Colchis, modern Georgia), where he was crucified. Another tradition holds he was stoned in Jerusalem and then beheaded. Hippolytus of Rome claims he died of old age in Jerusalem. Relics are claimed in Padua, Trier, and Gonio-Apsaros, Georgia. The lost Gospel of Matthias is attributed to him but considered heretical by early Church Fathers.

Did You Know?

• Matthias was chosen by lot, not by direct appointment by Jesus, making his apostleship unique.
• His name is variable: the Syriac version of Eusebius calls him 'Tolmai', not Matthias.
• Clement of Alexandria observed that Matthias was not chosen along with the other apostles but showed himself worthy to substitute for Judas.
• According to Hippolytus of Rome, Matthias died of old age in Jerusalem, contradicting other traditions of martyrdom.