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 choose a replacement for 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's betrayal, the remaining apostles gathered to decide who would take his place among the Twelve. They set criteria for the new apostle, stating that he must have been with them during Jesus' ministry and a witness to His resurrection. Two candidates were proposed: 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.
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Significance of Matthias: Matthias is significant because he represents the continuity of the apostolic mission and the importance of maintaining the number of apostles as a symbol of the Twelve Tribes of Israel. His selection emphasizes the early church's commitment to fulfilling Jesus' commission and maintaining leadership.
Why the Other Options Are Incorrect
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A. Paul: While Paul (formerly Saul of Tarsus) became a significant apostle and missionary, he was not chosen to replace Judas Iscariot. Instead, Paul’s apostleship came later, after the resurrection of Jesus, when he had a dramatic conversion experience on the road to Damascus (Acts 9). Therefore, he does not fit the context of replacing Judas.
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B. Barnabas: Barnabas was a prominent figure in the early church and a companion of Paul on missionary journeys. However, he was not chosen to replace Judas Iscariot. Barnabas was already an established leader and missionary, and his role was different from that of the Twelve Apostles.
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C. Junias: Junias is mentioned in Romans 16:7 as being "outstanding among the apostles," but there is no biblical record of Junias being involved in the selection process to replace Judas. The name is also 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, emphasizing the need for divine guidance in leadership decisions.
- Other candidates like Paul, Barnabas, and Junias were significant figures in the early church but were not involved in the replacement of Judas.
- Matthias's selection highlights the importance of maintaining the apostolic number and continuity in the early Christian community.
Revision Summary
- Matthias was chosen to replace Judas Iscariot as an apostle.
- The selection process involved prayer and casting lots.
- Other options (Paul, Barnabas, Junias) were significant but not related to this specific event.
- The event underscores the early church's commitment to leadership and continuity.