The correct option 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 of Jesus Christ were reduced to eleven after the betrayal and subsequent death of Judas Iscariot. To restore the number of apostles to twelve, a new apostle was chosen.
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Selection of Matthias: In the Book of Acts (Acts 1:15-26), after Jesus' ascension, the remaining apostles gathered to discuss the need to replace Judas Iscariot. 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 act of casting lots was a common practice in ancient Israel to seek divine guidance.
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Significance of Matthias: Matthias is significant because he represents the continuation of the apostolic mission and the fulfillment of the number twelve, which is symbolically important in the context of Israel's twelve tribes. His selection emphasizes the importance of maintaining the original group of apostles as witnesses to Jesus' life, death, and resurrection.
Explanation of Why Other Options Are Incorrect
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A. Paul: While Paul (formerly Saul of Tarsus) is a significant figure in early Christianity and is often referred to as an apostle, he was not one of the original twelve apostles. Paul’s conversion occurred after the selection of Matthias, and he became an apostle later, primarily known for his missionary journeys and epistles. Therefore, he did not contribute to making up the twelve apostles.
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B. Thaddaeus: Thaddaeus, also known as Judas (not Iscariot), was one of the original twelve apostles. He was not involved in the selection of Matthias, as he was already part of the group. Thus, he cannot be the answer to the question regarding who was added to make up the twelve.
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C. Matthew: Matthew, also one of the original twelve apostles, was a tax collector before following Jesus. Like Thaddaeus, he was already part of the apostolic group and did not play a role in the selection of Matthias. Therefore, he is not the correct answer.
Summary of Key Points
- Matthias was chosen to replace Judas Iscariot after his betrayal and death, restoring the number of apostles to twelve.
- The selection process involved prayer and casting lots, indicating reliance on divine guidance.
- Other options (Paul, Thaddaeus, Matthew) were either not involved in the selection or were already part of the original twelve apostles.
Revision Summary
- Matthias was chosen to replace Judas Iscariot as an apostle.
- The selection was made through prayer and casting lots.
- Paul, Thaddaeus, and Matthew were not involved in the selection of Matthias.
- The number twelve is symbolically significant in the context of the twelve tribes of Israel.