The correct answer is
D. Matthias.
Explanation of the Correct Answer
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Context of the Question: The question refers to the event in the New Testament where the apostles needed to replace Judas Iscariot after his betrayal of Jesus and subsequent death. This event is recorded in the Book of Acts, specifically Acts 1:15-26.
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Selection of Matthias: After Judas Iscariot betrayed Jesus and died, the remaining apostles gathered to choose a replacement to maintain the number of apostles at twelve. They proposed two candidates: Joseph called Barsabbas (also known as Justus) and Matthias. The apostles prayed for guidance and cast lots, which resulted in Matthias being chosen as the new apostle. This is significant because it shows the early church's commitment to maintaining the original number of apostles and the importance of divine guidance in their decision-making.
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Biblical Reference: The specific passage that details this event is Acts 1:24-26:
- "And they prayed and said, 'You, O Lord, who know the hearts of all, show which of these two You have chosen to take part in this ministry and apostleship from which Judas by transgression fell, that he might go to his own place.' And they cast their lots, and the lot fell on Matthias. And he was numbered with the eleven apostles."
Explanation of Why Other Options Are Incorrect
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A. Paul: While Paul (formerly Saul of Tarsus) became a significant apostle and missionary in the early church, he was not chosen to replace Judas Iscariot. Paul’s conversion occurred later, after the events of Acts 1, and he is often referred to as the "Apostle to the Gentiles." His role was distinct and separate from the original twelve apostles.
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B. Barnabas: Barnabas was a companion of Paul and played a crucial role in the early church, particularly in the spread of the Gospel to the Gentiles. However, he was not one of the original twelve apostles and was not chosen to replace Judas Iscariot. His ministry was significant, but it was separate from the apostolic succession that Matthias represented.
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C. Junias: Junias is mentioned in Romans 16:7 as being "of note among the apostles," but there is no biblical record of Junias being chosen to replace Judas Iscariot. The name is sometimes debated in terms of gender and role, but it does not pertain to the specific event of replacing Judas.
Summary of Key Points
- Matthias was chosen by the apostles to replace Judas Iscariot after his betrayal and death, as recorded in Acts 1:15-26.
- The selection process involved prayer and casting lots, demonstrating reliance on divine guidance.
- Other options (Paul, Barnabas, Junias) were significant figures in the early church but were not involved in the replacement of Judas Iscariot.
- Understanding the context and significance of Matthias's selection helps clarify the early church's structure and the importance of the apostles' roles.
Revision Summary
- Matthias was chosen to replace Judas Iscariot as an apostle.
- The decision was made through prayer and casting lots.
- Other candidates like Paul, Barnabas, and Junias were important but not part of this specific event.
- This event highlights the early church's commitment to maintaining the apostolic foundation.