Bible Study - The Man Who Replaced Judas Questions? Search all 6,500+ Bible studies on this website. Just type in topic word(s) or a question. Due to extensive use of high-quality maps and illustrations, this educational website is best-viewed with a minimum screen-resolution width of 1280 pixels The Man Who Replaced Judas by Wayne Blank Matthias, an abbreviated form of Mattathias, meaning a gift of God, was a disciple of Jesus Christ who was among those who witnessed everything from the ministry of John The Baptist to Christ's ascension. Although Matthias is mentioned specifically by name only once in The Bible , he most certainly played a prominent role in the early church after having been selected to replace Judas Iscariot among The Twelve Apostles , and he most certainly will, as the Scriptures below make plain, be a prominent member of the Kingdom of God.

The Choosing Of Matthias "Then they returned to Jerusalem from the mount called Olivet [shown in the photograph, see also The Mount Of Olives ], which is near Jerusalem, a Sabbath day's journey away; and when they had entered, they went up to the upper room, where they were staying, Peter and John and James and Andrew , Philip and Thomas , Bartholomew and Matthew , James the son of Alphaeus and Simon the Zealot and Judas the son of James. All these with one accord devoted themselves to prayer, together with the women and Mary the mother of Jesus, and with His brothers." (see Mary's Other Children? ) "In those days Peter stood up among the brethren, the company of persons was in all about a hundred and twenty, and said, "Brethren, the Scripture had to be fulfilled, which the Holy Spirit spoke beforehand by the mouth of David [i.e. King David ], concerning Judas who was guide to those who arrested Jesus. For he was numbered among us, and was allotted his share in this ministry." "Now this man bought a field with the reward of his wickedness; and falling headlong he burst open in the middle and all his bowels gushed out.

And it became known to all the inhabitants of Jerusalem, so that the field was called in their language Akeldama, that is, Field of Blood." "For it is written in the book of Psalms, 'Let his habitation become desolate, and let there be no one to live in it'; and 'His office let another take.'" "So one of the men who have accompanied us during all the time that The Lord Jesus went in and out among us, beginning from the baptism of John until the day when He was taken up from us - one of these men must become with us a witness to His resurrection." "And they put forward two, Joseph called Barsabbas, who was surnamed Justus, and Matthias. And they prayed and said, "Lord, Who knowest the hearts of all men, show which one of these two Thou hast chosen to take the place in this ministry and apostleship from which Judas turned aside, to go to his own place." And they cast lots for them, and the lot fell on Matthias; and he was enrolled with the eleven apostles." (Acts 1:12-26 RSV) Why Was A Replacement Apostle Needed?

The Twelve Apostles served the Gospel's purpose in their human lifetime, but they will also have a major role to play in the Kingdom of God: "You are those who have continued with Me in My trials; and I assign to you, as My Father assigned to Me, a kingdom, that you may eat and drink at My table in My kingdom, and sit on thrones judging the twelve tribes of Israel." (Luke 22:28-30 RSV) "And in the Spirit he carried me away to a great, high mountain, and showed me the holy city Jerusalem coming down out of heaven from God, having the glory of God, its radiance like a most rare jewel, like a jasper, clear as crystal. It had a great, high wall, with twelve gates, and at the gates twelve angels, and on the gates the names of the twelve tribes of the sons of Israel were inscribed; on the east three gates, on the north three gates, on the south three gates, and on the west three gates.

And the wall of the city had twelve foundations, and on them the twelve names of the twelve apostles of the Lamb." (Revelation 21:10-14 RSV) Fact Finder: What caused Judas Iscariot to betray Jesus Christ? Letter: Who replaced Judas Iscariot? Q: Since the twelve apostles are the foundation stones, and Judas was replaced and is not considered among the twelve, who replaced him? In Acts it says that Matthias was chosen by casting lots. Did Jehovah accept the casting of lots that was done to choose Matthias, or did he choose Paul? Which one of the two is the twelfth apostle, Matthias or Paul? (Acts 1:23-26) Thank you! _________________________ A: Who replaced Judas Iscariot? The Scriptures tell us it was Matthias, ï¿½he was reckoned along with the eleven apostles.ï¿½ (Acts 1:23-26) Some have trouble with that because of the manner in which the decision was reached, namely, casting lots to decide between Matthias and Joseph (who was also called Barsabbas).

Many believe that Paul is a better candidate because he was chosen by Jesus personally; plus he had a greater impact on the congregations than even most of the apostles, especially Matthias who is not even mentioned again after having won the decision. Some also point to the many letters that Paul wrote, whereas Matthias did not seem to have contributed to any writing of the Bible that we know of. But that is no argument against Matthias, for neither did eight of the other apostles write letters or books of the Bible, such as Andrew; James (the letter of James was written by Jesusï¿½ half-brother, not the apostle. ï¿½ Acts 12:1,2); Philip; Bartholomew; Thomas; James the son of Alphaeus; Simon the zealous one; and Judas the son of James (the short letter "Jude" was penned by Jesusï¿½ half brother, the brother of the author of the letter "James". ï¿½ Matt. 13:55; John 7:5) It should be noted that Jesus chose the twelve apostles early in his ministry from among the disciples who were already closely associated with him.

After spending a whole night in prayer, ï¿½he called his disciples to him and chose from among them twelve, whom he also named apostles.ï¿½ (Luke 6:12,13) This would also be true of the apostle who would be chosen to replace Judas Iscariot. He needed to have been a disciple ï¿½during all the time in which the Lord Jesus went in and out among us, starting with his baptism by John and until the day he was received up from us.ï¿½ (Acts 1:2, 20-22) There were at least two disciples who met the criterion, but of course only one could be chosen. The lot fell on Matthias! Who are we to say that Jehovah did not accept, or even have a hand in making his choice known in this manner. (Prov. 16:33; compare Joshua 7:14-20; 14:1,2) It was Matthias who henceforth ï¿½was reckoned among the twelveï¿½ and received the outpouring of the holy spirit at Pentecost.

(Acts 2:14) Saul, who became known as the apostle Paul, does not meet the qualifications to be counted among the twelve. He was not even a disciple when the resurrected Jesus appeared to him while he was on his way to Damascus to take into custody the disciples that had fled there on account of the persecution. Paul became a chosen vessel, an apostle to the nations, "sent forth" to declare the good news to them, for that is the meaning of the word "apostle." (Rom. 1:1; 11:13; 1 Cor. 9:1,2; 1 Tim. 2:7) Our word ï¿½apostleï¿½ comes from the Greek a‧po′sto‧los, and is derived from the common verb a‧po‧stel′lo, meaning simply ï¿½send forth (or off).ï¿½ (it-1 p.

127 Apostle) The apostle Matthew tells us that Jesus selected the twelve apostles ï¿½that they might continue with him and that he might send them out [a‧po‧stel′lei] to preach and to have authority to expel the demons.ï¿½ (Mark 3:14,15; Matt. 10:5-7) The twelve were closely associated with Jesus from the beginning of his ministry, accompanying him on his preaching tours, and were taught by Jesus personally in order to carry on the work after he was taken from them. From the start they were important "living stones" in the foundation of God's temple, his people. (Eph. 2:19,20; 1 Peter 2:5) That the twelve apostles have a special position within God's temple there can be no doubt. (Rev. 21:14) But in the Scriptures others are also called "apostles." Paul was an apostle to the nations, sent forth by Jesus. Other "apostles" were sent forth by their congregations.

In his second letter to the brothers in Corinth, Paul wrote: "Moreover, we are sending with them our brother whom we have often proved in many things to be earnest, but now much more earnest due to his great confidence in you. 23 If, though, there is any question about Titus, he is a sharer with me and a fellow worker for your interests; or if about our brothers, they are apostles of congregations and a glory of Christ. 24 Therefore demonstrate to them the proof of your love and of what we boasted about you, before the face of the congregations." (2 Cor. 8:22-24, NWT) Paul had relatives (συγγενείς), namely, "Andronicus and Junias. . . who are outstanding among the apostles, who also were in Christ before me." (Rom. 16:7, 11; NASB) Many translations call such apostles "special messengers of the churches," no doubt to differentiate such ones from the twelve, or because they recognize only the twelve as apostles. (see also Phil.

2:25) Because of the special prestige attached to the office of an apostle, some ambitious disciples presented themselves as apostles, but obviously not claiming to be among the twelve. (Mark 9:33,34; Luke 22:24; 1 Cor. 12:28,29) Paul was opposed in the Corinth congregation by certain "super fine apostles," calling them false apostles and deceitful workers. (2 Cor. 11:5, 13-15; 1 Cor. 4:8,9) Jesus commended the disciples of the Ephesus congregation because they "put those to the test who say they are apostles, but they are not, and you found them liars." This would be true also today of anyone who professes to have received apostolic authority by Jesus or God within the congregation, including any self-appointed governing body. (Revelation 2:2) Why did the Apostles decide to replace Judas Iscariot (Christian biblical)?

- Quora Quora Written Feb 6, 2013 “For it is written in the Book of Psalms: Let his dwelling become desolate; let no one live in it; and Let someone else take his position. “ Therefore, from among the men who have accompanied us during the whole time the Lord Jesus went in and out among us— beginning from the baptism of John until the day He was taken up from us—from among these, it is necessary that one become a witness with us of His resurrection.” Acts 1:20-22 (HCSB) The number of apostles had been 'fixed by Jesus to correspond to the twelve tribes of Israel (cf. Luke 22:30; Matt. 19:28)'. Filling the vacancy was therefore not a matter of administrative efficiency, but a specific requirement of God's purpose for the church as revealed in Scripture. 'Therefore it is necessary,' says Peter (1:21). The leadership of the apostolic church must be complete. Notice also that this reconstitution of the Twelve is a once-for-all action of the Holy Spirit in the church.

This is not contradicted, but rather confirmed, by the later calling of Paul as the apostle to the Gentiles. This was also a once-for-all appointment and only serves to emphasize that all modern attempts to choose 'apostles' entirely ignore the unique conditions surrounding the true apostolate appointed by Christ. Notice that Judas' replacement had to be 'a witness with [them] of his resurrection'— a simple fact that both defines who may be an apostle and settles for ever the invalidity of any claim for a continuing office of apostle. We are very definitely in the post-apostolic period! Gordon J. Keddie, Welwyn Commentary Series – You Are My Witnesses Written Jul 5, 2015 They choose Saint Matthias to complete the number 12, because the idea was that there must be one apostle for each of the tribes of Israel. The reason wasn't the death of Judas but his defection. That's why they didn't look for a replacemente when other apostles died. But, as many other things in the Gospels and the Bible in general, it might be a legend.

Maybe there never were actually 12 apostles but the number was chosen (as it was chosen for the tribes of Israel) because its matematical/esoterical significance. Check the importance of the number 12 in religion, mythology and magic. 427 Views · Answer requested by Written Jul 5, 2015 John Simpson's answer is correct, comprehensive, and well written. I would only add an emphasis on the role of Scripture in the apostles' decision. Jesus had taught them that all that was written must be fulfilled. They were fresh off the dramatic experience of having lost hope when Jesus was crucified, having their emotions completely reversed at His resurrection from the dead, and then having Jesus explain it all by chiding them with "O foolish men and slow of heart to believe in all that the prophets have spoken; was it not necessary for the Christ to suffer these things and to enter into His glory?" (Luke 24:25-26). He thereby impressed upon them ever so deeply that Scripture was written to be fulfilled.

Thus once the dust settled and they were confronted with the reduction in their number caused by Judas' betrayal and suicide, and seeing how the Scripture had foretold these things, they followed also the Scriptures' description of the remedy to be employed - that is, "his office let another man take" (Acts 1:20 quoting Psalm 109:8). Again, this answer is to be read in conjunction with the one John Simpson wrote. 404 Views · Answer requested by Who Replaced Judas as the Twelfth Apostle? « Friends of Jehovah’s Witnesses Where is the real Christmas? » Who Replaced Judas as the Twelfth Apostle? In the very first verse of Romans Paul identifies himself as an Apostle. Throughout his letters he re-iterates and supports his claim to Apostleship. If Paul was an Apostle, what does that make Matthias, who was chosen by the other eleven Apostles as the Apostle to replace Judas (before Paul’s conversion)? There are two choices: 1) Matthias was indeed the chosen replacement for Judas, or 2) Paul was the chosen replacement and not Matthias.

Perspective One: Matthias was the chosen replacement: When Judas Iscariot defected and died unfaithfully, the twelve apostles became eleven. During the forty days time from Jesus resurrection until his ascension to heaven, Jesus did not appoint another apostle to fill the vacancy left by Judas. We read about it in Acts 1:1-13 (Act 1:1) The first account I composed, Theophilus, about all that Jesus began to do and teach, (Act 1:2) until the day when He was taken up to heaven, after He had by the Holy Spirit given orders to the apostles whom He had chosen. (Act 1:3) To these He also presented Himself alive after His suffering, by many convincing proofs, appearing to them over a period of forty days and speaking of the things concerning the kingdom of God.

(Act 1:4) Gathering them together, He commanded them not to leave Jerusalem, but to wait for what the Father had promised, “Which,” He said, “you heard of from Me; (Act 1:5) for John baptized with water, but you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit not many days from now.” (Act 1:9) And after He had said these things, He was lifted up while they were looking on, and a cloud received Him out of their sight. (Act 1:12) Then they returned to Jerusalem from the mount called Olivet, which is near Jerusalem, a Sabbath day’s journey away. (Act 1:13) When they had entered the city, they went up to the upper room where they were staying; that is, Peter and John and James and Andrew, Philip and Thomas, Bartholomew and Matthew, James the son of Alphaeus, and Simon the Zealot, and Judas the son of James. Starting in Acts 2:1 the account of the Holy Spirit being given to the disciples at Pentecost is recorded.

During the ten days between the ascension (Acts 1:3) and Pentecost (Acts 2:1), Peter concludes based on two OT scripture sets that another be selected to fill Judas’ place because of Judas’ defection: (Act 1:20) “For it is written in the book of Psalms, ‘LET HIS HOMESTEAD BE MADE DESOLATE, AND LET NO ONE DWELL IN IT’; and, ‘LET ANOTHER MAN TAKE HIS OFFICE.’ The words are a combination of Psa. 69:25 and Psa. 109:8; in which the apostle discerns a greater than David, and a worse than Ahithophel and his fellow conspirators against David. (Psa 69:25) May their camp be desolate; May none dwell in their tents. (Psa 109:8) Let his days be few; Let another take his office. Acts 1:11 lists 11 Apostles, Judas not being named among them. In vs 15-26, Peter presents the argument for filling Judas’ position with another choice, Barsabas or Matthias.

The two criterion Peter identifies they must look for is that: • He must have been personally conversant with Jesus from John the Baptist onward, (by implication an eye witness of his works and miracles and a knowledge of his teachings) • He must have been an eyewitness of Jesus’ resurrection, After specifically asking the Lord to direct the decision Matthias was chosen. (Act 1:24-26) (Act 1:24) And they prayed and said, “You, Lord, who know the hearts of all men, show which one of these two You have chosen (Act 1:25) to occupy this ministry and apostleship from which Judas turned aside to go to his own place.” (Act 1:26) And they drew lots for them, and the lot fell to Matthias; and he was added to the eleven apostles. Matthias is included with the other eleven and received the Holy Spirit at Pentecost along with the other apostles and the many others. He was involved with the appointment of the seven deacons in Acts 6:1-3.

(Act 6:1) Now at this time while the disciples were increasing in number, a complaint arose on the part of the Hellenistic Jews against the native Hebrews, because their widows were being overlooked in the daily serving of food. (Act 6:2) So the twelve summoned the congregation of the disciples and said, “It is not desirable for us to neglect the word of God in order to serve tables. (Act 6:3) “Therefore, brethren, select from among you seven men of good reputation, full of the Spirit and of wisdom, whom we may put in charge of this task. And Matthias was counted in the twelve by Paul and Matthias witnessed the Lord Jesus’ post-resurrection appearances. I Cor. 15:3-8 (1Co 15:3) For I delivered to you as of first importance what I also received, that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, (1Co 15:4) and that He was buried, and that He was raised on the third day according to the Scriptures, (1Co 15:5) and that He appeared to Cephas, then to the twelve.

(Technically, this event happened before Matthias was chosen; which means that the phrase, “The twelve” was a name they called the collection of the Apostles and not referring to a literal number of twelve.) Judas Iscariot was dead, so who are the twelve? Paul has to be referring to Matthias. Paul can’t be referring to himself because he wasn’t even chosen yet. Paul confirms this as we keep reading… (1Co 15:6) After that He appeared to more than five hundred brethren at one time, most of whom remain until now, but some have fallen asleep; (1Co 15:7) then He appeared to James, then to all the apostles; (1Co 15:8) and last of all, as to one untimely born, He appeared to me also. Why does Paul make a distinction between “the twelve” in vs 5 and “the apostles” in vs. 7? Paul uses the term “apostles” more broadly than just the original twelve and himself.

We read in (Rom 16:7) Greet Andronicus and Junias, my kinsmen and my fellow prisoners, who are outstanding among the apostles, who also were in Christ before me. So Matthias became the twelfth. Quoting from “Aid to Bible Understanding” we read, “After his selection he was reckoned along with the other eleven apostles by the congregation and when Acts immediately thereafter speaks of ‘the apostles’ or ‘the twelve,’ Matthias was included. Acts 2:37, 43: 4:33, 36; 5:12, 29; 6:2, 6; 8:1, 14; 9:27” Perspective Two: Paul was the chosen replacement In Luke chapter six (6) we have the account of the Lord Jesus choosing the twelve. It is important to note that Jesus made the choice and not the twelve. They did not nominate or appoint themselves as his apostles.

(Lk 6:12-16) (Lk 6:12) It was at this time that He went off to the mountain to pray, and He spent the whole night in prayer to God. (Lk 6:13) And when day came, He called His disciples to Him and chose twelve of them, whom He also named as apostles: (Lk 6:14) Simon, whom He also named Peter, and Andrew his brother; and James and John; and Philip and Bartholomew; (Lk 6:15) and Matthew and Thomas; James the son of Alphaeus, and Simon who was called the Zealot; (Luk 6:16) Judas the son of James, and Judas Iscariot, who became a traitor. We are told elsewhere that it was Jesus’ choice.

(Joh 6:70) Jesus answered them, “Did I Myself not choose you, the twelve, and yet one of you is a devil?” (Joh 15:16) “You did not choose Me but I chose you, and appointed you that you would go and bear fruit, and that your fruit would remain, so that whatever you ask of the Father in My name He may give to you. (Act 1:1) The first account I composed, Theophilus, about all that Jesus began to do and teach (Act 1:2) until the day when He was taken up to heaven, after He had by the Holy Spirit given orders to the apostles whom He had chosen. Jesus quietly ignored the vote of the eleven and made his own choice for the successor of Judas; Jesus chose Paul. How do we know this? Paul’s Calling / Choosing Who were the 12 disciples? | Bibleinfo.com Home » Bible Questions » Who were the 12 disciples? Who were the 12 disciples?

The names of the twelve disciples of Jesus are Peter, James (the son of Zebedee), John, Andrew, Philip, Bartholomew, Thomas, Matthew, James (the son of Alphaeus), Thaddaeus, Simon the Zealot and Judas Iscariot. (Matthew 10:1-4 and Luke 6:12-16) [1] Thomas The Apostles of Jesus The 12 disciples/apostles of Jesus were the foundation stones of His church, several even wrote portions of the Bible. In Revelation 21:14 we are told that the twelve foundations of the wall of the New Jerusalem will have in them the names of the twelve disciples/apostles. It is evident, therefore, that God attaches great importance to these 12 men. >> Browse: What are the seven deadly sins? // Who Wrote the Bible? As we study these courageous first-century lives, and what discipleship meant in the time of Jesus, we may expect to be aided in developing a Spirit-directed twenty-first century discipleship as Christ must have meant it to be.

The following biographical information about the 12 original disciples of Jesus uses the New Testament accounts along with the most respected legends and traditions. We do not mean to infer, that legend and tradition constitute historical fact. We do feel, however, that they do have value in the study of the lives of these men who "…turned the world upside down…" Other Facts: Andrew Andrew was the brother of Peter, and a son of Jonas. He lived in Bethsaida and Capernaum and was a fisherman before Jesus called him. Originally he was a disciple of John the Baptist (Mark 1:16-18). Andrew brought his brother, Peter, to Jesus (John 1:40). He is the first to have the title of Home and Foreign Missionary. He is claimed by three countries as their Patron Saint-Russia, Scotland and Greece. Many scholars say that he preached in Scythia, Greece and Asia Minor. Andrew introduced others to Jesus. Although circumstances placed him in a position where it would have been easy for him to become jealous and resentful, he was optimistic and well content in second place. His main purpose in life was to bring others to the master.

According to tradition, it was in Achaia, Greece, in the town of Patra that Andrew died a martyr. When Governor Aepeas' wife was healed and converted to the Christian faith, and shortly after that the Governor's brother became a Christian. Aepeas was enraged. He arrested Andrew and condemned him to die on the cross. Andrew, feeling unworthy to be crucified on the same-shaped cross as his Master, begged that his be different. So, he was crucified on an X-shaped cross, which is still called Saint Andrew's cross and which is one of his apostolic symbols. A symbol of two crossed fish has also been applied to Andrew, because he was formerly a fisherman. Bartholomew or Nathanael Bartholomew Nathanael, son of Talmai, lived in Cana of Galilee. His apostolic symbol is three parallel knives. Tradition says he was a missionary in Armenia. A number of scholars believe that he was the only one of the 12 disciples who came from royal blood, or noble birth. His name means Son of Tolmai or Talmai(2 Samuel 3:3).

Talmai was king of Geshur whose daughter, Maacah, was the wife of David, mother of Absolom. Bartholomew's name appears with every list of the disciples (Matthew 10:3; Mark 3:18; Luke 6:14; Acts 1:13). This was not a first name, however; it was his second name. His first name probably was Nathanael, whom Jesus called "An Israelite indeed, in whom there is no guile" (John 1:47). The New Testament gives us very little information about him. Tradition indicates he was a great searcher of the Scripture and a scholar in the law and the prophets. He developed into a man of complete surrender to the Carpenter of Nazareth, and one of the Church's most adventurous missionaries. He is said to have preached with Philip in Phrygia and Hierapolis; also in Armenia. The Armenian Church claims him as its founder and martyr. However, tradition says that he preached in India, and his death seems to have taken place there. He died as a martyr for his Lord. He was flayed alive with knives.

James the Elder James, the Elder, Boanerges, son of Zebedee and Salome, brother of John the Apostle; a fisherman who lived in Bethsaida, Capernaum and Jerusalem. He preached in Jerusalem and Judea and was beheaded by Herod, AD 44 (Acts 12:1,2). He was a member of the Inner Circle, so called because they were accorded special privileges. The New Testament tells us very little about James. His name never appears apart from that of his brother, John. They were an inseparable pair (Mark 1:19-20; Matthew 4:21; Luke 5:1-11). He was a man of courage and forgiveness, a man without jealousy, living in the shadow of John, a man of extraordinary faith. He was the first of the twelve to become a martyr. His symbol is three shells, the sign of his pilgrimage by the sea. James the Lesser or the Younger James, the Lesser or Younger, son of Alpheus, or Cleophas and Mary, lived in Galilee. He was the brother of the Apostle Jude.

According to tradition he wrote the Epistle of James, preached in Palestine and Egypt and was crucified in Egypt. James was one of the little-known disciples. Some scholars believe he was the brother of Matthew, the tax collector. James was a man of strong character and one of the most fiery type. Still another tradition says that he died as a martyr and his body was sawed in pieces. The saw became his apostolic symbol. John John Boanerges, son of Zebedee and Salome, brother of James, the Apostle. He was known as the Beloved Disciple. A fisherman who lived in Bethsaida, Capernaum and Jerusalem, he was a member of the Inner Circle. He wrote the Gospel of John, I John, II John, III John and Revelation. He preached among the churches of Asia Minor. Banished to the isle of Patmos, he was later freed and died a natural death. John was one of the prominent Apostles. He is mentioned in many places in the New Testament. He was a man of action; he was very ambitious; and a man with an explosive temper and an intolerant heart. His second name was Boanerges, which means son of Thunder.

He and his brother, James, came from a more well-to-do family than the rest of the 12 Apostles. Since his father had hired servants in his fishing business (Mark 1:20) he may have felt himself above the rest. He was close to Peter. They were acting together in the ministry. Peter, however, was always the spokesman for the band. John mellowed with time. At the latter part of his life, he had forgotten everything, including his ambition and explosive temper, except his Lord's command of love. It is said that an attempt was made on his life by giving him a chalice of poison from which God spared him. He died of natural causes. A chalice with a snake in it is his symbol. Judas Judas Iscariot, the traitor, was the son of Simon who lived in Kerioth of Judah. He betrayed Jesus for thirty pieces of silver and afterwards hanged himself (Matthew 26:14,16).

Judas, the man who became the traitor, is the supreme enigma of the New Testament because it is so hard to see how anyone who was so close to Jesus, who saw so many miracles and heard so much of the Master's teaching could ever betray him into the hands of his enemies. His name appears in three lists of the 12 Apostles (Matthew 10:4; Mark 3:19; Luke 6:19). It is said that Judas came from Judah near Jericho. He was a Judean and the rest of the disciples were Galileans. He was the treasurer of the band and among the outspoken leaders. It is said that Judas was a violent Jewish Nationalist who had followed Jesus in hope that through Him his nationalistic flame and dreams might be realized. No one can deny that Judas was a covetous man and at times he used his position as treasurer of the band to pilfer from the common purse. There is no certain reason as to why Judas betrayed his master; but it is not his betrayal that put Jesus on the cross-it was our sins.

His apostolic symbol is a hangman's noose, or a money purse with pieces of silver falling from it. Jude or Thaddeus Jude, Thaddeus, or Lebbeus, son of Alpheus or Cleophas and Mary. He was a brother of James the Younger. He was one of the very little-known Apostles and lived in Galilee. Tradition says he preached in Assyria and Persia and died a martyr in Persia. Jerome called Jude "Trinomious" which means "a man with three names." In Mark 3:18 he is called Thaddeus. In Matthew 10:3 he is called Lebbeus. His surname was Thaddeus. In Luke 6:16 and Acts 1:13 he is called Judas the brother of James. Judas Thaddeus also was called Judas the Zealot. By character he was an intense and violent Nationalist with the dream of world power and domination by the Chosen People.

In the New Testament records (John 14:22 NIV) he asked Jesus at the Last Supper, "But Lord, why do you intend to show yourself to us and not to the world?" Judas Thaddeus was interested in making Christ known to the world. Not as a suffering Saviour, however, but as ruling King. We can see plainly from the answer Jesus gave him, that the way of power can never be substituted for the way of love. It is said that Jude went to preach the gospel in Edessa near the Euphrates River. There he healed many and many believed in the name of the Master. Jude went from there to preach the Gospel in other places. He was killed with arrows at Ararat. The chosen symbol for him is the ship because he was a missionary thought to be a fisherman. Matthew or Levi Matthew, or Levi, son of Alpheus, lived in Capernaum. He was a publican or tax collector. He wrote the Gospel that bears his name. He died a martyr in Ethiopia.

The call of Matthew to the apostolic band is mentioned in Mark 2:14, Matthew 9:9 and Luke 5:27-28. From these passages, we learn that Matthew also was called Levi. It was a common custom in the Middle East at the time of Christ for men to have two names. Matthew's names mean "a gift of God." The name Levi could have been given to him by Jesus. It is likely that James the lesser, who was one of the twelve Apostles, was Matthew's brother, also the son of Alpheus. Although we know little about Matthew personally, the outstanding fact about him is that he was a tax collector. The King James Version calls him a publican, which in Latin is Publicanus, meaning engaged in public service, a man who handled public money, or a tax gatherer. Of all the nations in the world, the Jews were the most vigorous haters of tax gatherers. To the devout Jew, God was the only one to whom it was right to pay tribute in taxes. To pay it to anyone else was to infringe on the rights of God. The tax collectors were hated not on religious grounds only but because most of them were notoriously unjust.

In the minds of many honest, Jewish men, these tax collectors were regarded as criminals. In New Testament times they were classified with harlots, Gentiles and sinners (Matthew 18:17; Matthew 21:31, 33; Matthew 9;10; Mark 2:15,16; Luke 5:30). Tax collectors had been known to assess duty payable at impossible sums and then offer to lend the money to travelers at a high rate of interest. Such was Matthew. Yet, Jesus chose a man all men hated and made him one of His men. It took Jesus Christ to see the potential in the tax collector of Capernaum. Matthew was unlike the other Apostles, who were mostly fishermen. He could use a pen, and by his pen he became the first man to present to the world, in the Hebrew language, an account of the teaching of Jesus. It is clearly impossible to estimate the debt that Christianity owes to this despised tax gatherer. The average man would have thought it impossible to reform Matthew, but to God all things are possible. Matthew became the first man to write down the teachings of Jesus.

He was a missionary of the Gospel, who laid down his life for the faith of his Master. The apostolic symbol of Matthew is three money bags which reminds us that he was a tax collector before Jesus called him. Peter Simon Peter, son of Jonas, was a fisherman who lived in Bethsaida and Capernaum. He did evangelistic and missionary work among the Jews, going as far as Babylon. He was a member of the Inner Circle and authored the two New Testament epistles which bear his name. Tradition says he was crucified, head downward, in Rome. In every apostolic list, the name Peter is mentioned first. However, Peter had other names. At the time of Christ, the common language was Greek and the family language was Hebrew. So his Greek name was Simon (Mark 1:16; John 1:40, 41). His Hebrew name was Cephas (1 Corinthians 1:12; 3:22; 9:5 and Galatians 2:9). The Greek meaning of Simon is rock. The Arabic meaning of Cephas is also rock. By trade, Peter was a fisherman.

He was a married man (1 Corinthians 9:5) and his home was Capernaum. Jesus probably made His headquarters there when He visited Capernaum. Peter was also a Galilean as was typical of many of the other disciples. Josephus described the Galileans this way, "They were ever fond of innovation and by nature disposed to change and delighted in sedition. They were ever ready to follow the leader and to begin an insurrection. They were quick in temper and given to quarreling and they were very chivalrous men." The Talmud says this of the Galileans, "They were more anxious for honor than for gain, quick-tempered, impulsive, emotional, easily aroused by an appeal to adventure, loyal to the end." Peter was a typical Galilean. Among the twelve, Peter was the leader. He stands out as a spokesman for all the twleve Apostles. It is he who asked the meaning of the difficult saying in Matthew 15:15. It is he who asked how often he must forgive. It is he who inquired about the reward for all of those who follow Jesus.

It is he who first confessed Jesus and declared Him as the Son of the Living God. It is he who was at the Mount of Transfiguration. It is he who saw Jairus' daughter raised to life. Yet, it is he who denied Christ before a maiden. He was an Apostle and a missionary who laid down his life for his Lord. It is true, Peter had many faults, but he had always the saving grace of the loving heart. No matter how many times he had fallen and failed, he always recovered his courage and integrity. Peter was martyred on a cross. Peter requested that he might be crucified head downward for he was not worthy to die as his Lord had died. His apostolic symbol is a cross upside down with crossed keys. Philip Tradition says that disciple Philip preached in Phrygia and died a martyr at Hierapolis. Philip came from Bethsaida, the town from which Peter and Andrew came (John 1:44). The likelihood is that he, too, was a fisherman.

Although the first three Gospels record his name (Matthew 10:3; Mark 3:18; Luke 6:14; Acts 1:13), it is in the Gospel of John that Philip becomes a living personality. Scholars disagree on Philip. In Acts 6:5, we have Philip as one of the seven ordained deacons. Some say this is a different Philip. Some believe this is the Apostle. If this is the same Philip, then his personality came more to life because he had a successful campaign in Samaria. He led the Ethiopian eunuch to Christ (Acts 8:26). He also stayed with Paul in Ceasarea (Acts 21:8) and was one of the major figures in the missionary enterprise of the early church. The Gospel of John shows Philip as one of the first to whom Jesus addressed the words, "Follow Me." When Philip met Christ, he immediately found Nathanael and told him that "we have found him, of whom Moses … and the prophets, did write." Nathanael was skeptical. But Philip did not argue with him; he simply answered, "Come and see." This story tells us two important things about Philip.

First, it shows his right approach to the skeptic and his simple faith in Christ. Second, it shows that he had a missionary instinct. Philip was a man with a warm heart and a pessimistic head. He was one who would very much like to do something for others, but who did not see how it could be done. Yet, this simple Galilean gave all he had. In return God used him. It is said that he died by hanging. While he was dying, he requested that his body be wrapped not in linen but in papyrus for he was not worthy that even his dead body should be treated as the body of Jesus had been treated. The symbol of Philip is a basket, because of his part in feeding of the five thousand. It is he that stressed the cross as a sign of Christianity and victory. Simon the Zealot Simon, the Zealot, one of the little-known followers called the Canaanite or Zelotes, lived in Galilee. Tradition says he was crucified. In two places in the King James Version he is called a Canaanite (Matthew 10:4; Mark 3:18).

However in the other two places he is called Simon Zelotes (Luke 6:15; Acts 1:13). The New Testament gives us practically nothing on him personally except that it says he was a Zealot. The Zealots were fanatical Jewish Nationalists who had heroic disregard for the suffering involved and the struggle for what they regarded as the purity of their faith. The Zealots were crazed with hatred for the Romans. It was this hate for Rome that destroyed the city of Jerusalem. Josephus says the Zealots were reckless persons, zealous in good practices and extravagant and reckless in the worst kind of actions. From this background, we see that Simon was a fanatical Nationalist, a man devoted to the Law, a man with bitter hatred for anyone who dared to compromise with Rome. Yet, Simon clearly emerged as a man of faith. He abandoned all his hatred for the faith that he showed toward his Master and the love that he was willing to share with the rest of the disciples and especially Matthew, the Roman tax collector. Simon, the Zealot, the man who once would have killed in loyalty to Israel, became the man who saw that God will have no forced service.

Tradition says he died as a martyr. His apostolic symbol is a fish lying on a Bible, which indicates he was a former fisherman who became a fisher of men through preaching. Thomas Didymus Thomas Didymus lived in Galilee. Tradition says he labored in Parthia, Persia, and India, suffering martyrdom near Madras, at Mt. St. Thomas, India. Thomas was his Hebrew name and Didymus was his Greek name. At times he was called Judas. Matthew, Mark and Luke tell us nothing about Thomas except his name. However, John defines him more clearly in his Gospel. Thomas appeared in the raising of Lazarus (John 11:2-16), in the Upper Room (John 14:1-6) where he wanted to know how to know the way where Jesus was going. In John 20:25, we see him saying unless he sees the nailprints in Jesus' hand and the gash of the spear in His side he will not believe. That's why Thomas became known as Doubting Thomas. By nature, Thomas was a pessimist. He was a bewildered man. Yet, he was a man of courage.

He was a man who could not believe until he had seen. He was a man of devotion and of faith. When Jesus rose, he came back and invited Thomas to put his finger in the nail prints in his hands and in his side. Here, we see Thomas making the greatest confession of faith, "My Lord and my God." Thomas' doubts were transformed into faith. By this very fact Thomas' faith became great, intense and convincing. It is said that he was commissioned to build a palace for the king of India, and he was killed with a spear as a martyr for his Lord. His symbol is a group of spears, stones and arrows. Who replaced Judas Iscariot? Matthias was selected to replace Judas as recorded in Acts 1:15-26. The other man who was also in consideration was named Joseph or Barsabas, and surnamed Justus. Lots were cast and eventually Matthias was chosen.

Acts 1:24-26 records the following, "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 he was numbered with the eleven apostles.” The Bible is sparse on additional details relating to Matthias, but it does say that Matthias was with Jesus since His baptism until his resurrection. Besides the book of Acts, Matthias isn’t mentioned anywhere else in the Bible. According to historical sources Matthias lived til 80 A.D. and spread the gospel on the shores of the Caspian and Cappadocia. How did the 12 disciples die?

Andrew = Crucified on an X-shaped cross Bartholomew or Nathanael = Flayed alive with knives James the elder = First apostle martyred James the lesser = Sawn in pieces John = Died of natural causes on the isle of Patmos Judas Iscariot = Hung himself Jude or Thaddeus = Killed with arrows Matthew or Levi = Martyred in Ethiopia Peter = Crucified upside-down on a cross Philip = Died by hanging 11 Chapter 10 1 And he arose from thence, and cometh into the coasts of Judaea by the farther side of Jordan: and the people resort unto him again; and, as he was wont, he taught them again. 2 And the Pharisees came to him, and asked him, Is it lawful for a man to put away his wife? tempting him. 3 And he answered and said unto them, What did Moses command you? 4 And they said, Moses suffered to write a bill of divorcement, and to put her away. 5 And Jesus answered and said unto them, For the hardness of your heart he wrote you this precept.

Acts 1:15-26 Appointment of Matthias as replacement for Judas Iscariot 'Let another take his office.'ï¿½ 21 "Therefore, of these men who have accompanied us all the time that the Lord Jesus went in and out among us, 22 beginning from the baptism of John to that day when He was taken up from us, one of these must become a witness with us of His resurrection." 23 And they proposed two: Joseph called Barsabas, who was surnamed Justus, and Matthias. 24 And they prayed and said, "You, O Lord, who know the hearts of all, show which of these two You have chosen 25 to take part in this ministry and apostleship from which Judas by transgression fell, that he might go to his own place." 26 And they cast their lots, and the lot fell on Matthias.

And he was numbered with the eleven apostles.ï¿½ï¿½ï¿½ï¿½ NKJV Facts Revealed: V Twelve Apostles had been appointed by Jesus Himself.ï¿½ï¿½ [Luke 6:12-13, Matthew 10:2-4] V The criterion for selection had been given by Jesusï¿½ï¿½ï¿½ [John 15:27] V The end result for the Apostles is to sit on twelve thrones judging the twelve tribes of Israel , so there is a need for twelve Apostles in number.ï¿½ï¿½ [Matthew 19:28] ï¿½ They needed to have been with Jesus from the beginning (the Baptism of John), and eyewitnesses of the Resurrection and Ascension of Jesus.ï¿½ï¿½ï¿½ [John 15:27, Acts 1:21-22] V The number of those waiting in the Upper Room had grown to 120 persons including the women.ï¿½ï¿½ï¿½ [Acts 1:15] V Judas had been among the Apostles appointed by Jesus,

 but had fallen from his Apostleship and lost his salvation when he betrayed Jesus and perished with a curse according to prophecy of David and of Jesus.ï¿½ï¿½ï¿½ [Matthew 26:24, Mark 14:21, Luke 22:22, Psalm 109:8] ï¿½ Prophetic Scripture again is fulfilled.

V Judas had gone to his place in perdition according Jesus and Peter.ï¿½ï¿½ï¿½ [John 17:12, Acts 1:25] V Peter again demonstrated his leadership qualities. V Two candidates were selected by the Apostles. V The choice between them was done by prayer and casting of lots. V Matthias was selected and appointed to replace Judas Iscariot. Was Matthias or Paul God's choice to replace Judas as the 12th apostle? Was Matthias or Paul God's choice to replace Judas as the 12th apostle? Subscribe to our Question of the Week : Question: "Was Matthias or Paul God's choice to replace Judas as the 12th apostle?" Answer: With Judas having betrayed Christ and then committing suicide, the 11 remaining disciples decided to replace Judas with a new 12th apostle (Acts 1:16-20). The requirements were that the man had to have been with them the entire time of Jesus’ ministry, and to have been a witness of the resurrection and ascension (Acts 1:21-22).

The 11 disciples proposed two men: Joseph called Barsabbas (possibly the same person as Barnabas), and Matthias (Acts 1:23). The 11 disciples then prayed for the Lord’s direction (Acts 1:24-25), and then cast lots, and the lot fell to Matthias (Acts 1:26). But, was this the Lord’s choice? Some propose that Paul, not Matthias, was God’s choice for the 12th apostle. They argue that Jesus had told the apostles to wait for the coming of the Holy Spirit (Acts 1:8) and that casting lots is not how the disciples should have made the decision. They also point out that Matthias is never again mentioned in the New Testament, while Paul obviously became very prominent in the early Christian church. So, are they correct that Paul, not Matthias, was God’s choice to be Judas’ replacement as the 12th apostle? The New Testament nowhere condones or condemns the way the apostles made the decision in Acts 1. Casting lots was a biblically allowed method of making a decision (Proverbs 16:33).

And, while Matthias is never again mentioned in the New Testament, the same can be said for most of the other 11 apostles. Church history records that Matthias died as a martyr for Christ, as did all of the other apostles, except John. Yes, Paul was definitely more prominent than Matthias, but Paul was more prominent than any of the 12 apostles, except for perhaps Peter and John. Also, Paul would not have been qualified based on the apostles’ criteria (Acts 1:21-22). So, a conclusive biblical case cannot be made for the 11 apostles’ choice of Matthias being invalid. Further, God is sovereign. If it was not His sovereign will for Matthias to be chosen, Matthias would not have been chosen. It could be argued that, while it was God’s sovereign will (what He ordained) for Matthias to be chosen, it was God’s perfect will (what He desired) for the apostles to wait for Paul. But, this would be pure speculation, as, again, the Bible nowhere condemns Matthias being chosen for the 12th apostle.

So, what name will be written on the 12th foundation in the heavenly Jerusalem (Revelation 21:14)? The Bible does not explicitly say, but it likely will be Matthias. Ultimately, though, we will have to wait to find out. Judas’ Replacement | Mysterious Grace Judas’ Replacement Posted on September 2, 2010 by admin Was Paul an apostle? He says so in I Corinthians 4:9 and 15:9, II Corinthians 11:5 and 12:11, and Galatians 1:17. (Time to be Berean… get out your Bible and see if it is so!) If he was, why wasn’t he the replacement for Judas Iscariot? Why did Judas Iscariot need to be replaced at all? Wouldn’t eleven apostles be enough? In this post’s study passage we discover that it was God’s intent to replace Judas, round out the number of apostles to twelve again, and to do it with someone other than Paul. Let’s dig in.

Acts 1:12-13 (Please read it for yourself in your study Bible.) We present here a list of the Apostles that gathered in the upper room: Peter James, the son of Alphaeus (to distinguish him later from James the half-brother of Christ) Simon the Zealot Judas, the son of James (to distinguish him from Judas Iscariot who was now dead) Eleven men who had been with Jesus. Notice that while these verses may be divided from the previous verses by a section heading in your Bible, Luke did not put in the section headings! Your Bible commentator did. These verses are just the continuation of the story.

If you check the verses we’ve already covered, you’ll find that these men have not been identified previously as “the eleven”, but only referred to as “they” or “them.” The implication (reading backwards) is that “they” were the same men who had just returned to the upper room, had just seen Jesus ascend into heaven, had just asked Him if He was going to restore the kingdom at this time, had been reminded to remain in Jerusalem until the Holy Spirit came upon them, had received teaching for forty days after his resurrection, and had witnessed many convincing proofs that He was indeed alive. It’s important to realize that these specific men, now absent Judas Iscariot, were the inner circle of men specifically chosen and trained by Jesus (His “disciples”), and whose training, as we have learned, was to prepare them for the coming restoration of David’s kingdom. One particular aspect of their position and service in this “kingdom at hand” was explained to them — and only to them — in Luke 22:30 and Matthew 19:28.

Luke describes a dispute among these same disciples over which of them was the greatest, right on the heels of the event we call the “Last Supper.” Jesus used it as an object lesson in humility, teaching them that those who were the most humble-hearted servants would be the greatest in the kingdom. He closes the object lesson with a glimpse into their future: “… that you may eat and drink at My table in My kingdom, and you will sit on thrones judging the twelve tribes of Israel.“ Matthew records this statement on a different, earlier occasion prior to Jesus triumphant entry into Jerusalem at the beginning of Passover Week.

Regardless of whether Jesus told them the same thing on two different occasions or not, the important points here are that there are twelve (not eleven) tribes of Israel (even though two of them descended from sons of Joseph) no mention is made of one of the disciples sitting on two thrones they will be rulers over complete tribes, and form a ruling council of twelve over all of Israel this is part of the coming prophesied Kingdom, Israel’s hope and expectation, in which all the earth will be blessed Clearly this Kingdom will be short one man if there are only eleven apostles, and that a new twelfth Jewish apostle with a Jewish expectation must be appointed if the restored Davidic Kingdom, a promise to Israel, is to proceed. Acts 1:14 We pause here only long enough for two noteworthy observations. (1) The “women”, including Jesus’ mother Mary, and Jesus half-brothers apparently were already at this location when the eleven returned from the Mount of Olives. This was a tightly-knit small group.

(2) They were “all with one mind” and were “continually devoting themselves to prayer.” This is perfectly in keeping with their experiences (the undeniable resurrection and teaching of the risen Christ) and with Christ’s instructions to wait in Jerusalem for the coming of the Holy Spirit. Does that mean we should be doing the same thing today, and if we do, our sincerity and devotion will somehow “bring” the Holy Spirit into our lives as He came at Pentecost? Many in the Pentecostal Movement would say so, and we shall have an answer soon enough. (Obviously, I personally don’t think so. There are indications here that a different economy was in effect, as none of those gathered appear to be engaged in gainful employment. We’ll find this to be a characteristic of the Jerusalem community of believers for several chapters to come, and it is very different from the way the world operates today — but a window on the economy of the Millennial Kingdom.) Does it mean we should not be devoted to our Lord in obedience and prayer? Absolutely not! But it is another example of rightly dividing the Word of Truth. Remember, the Bible is all for our instruction, but it is not all addressed directly to us.

Acts 1:15 “And in these days Peter stood up in the midst of the brethren (a gathering of about one hundred and twenty names was there together), and said…” The NASB translation states “And at that time”, but the literal translation of the Greek is “in these days”. There’s a subtle difference in meaning here. “At that time” is usually understood to refer to a specific date and clock time (it is a punctiliar reference), and in the context would seem to indicate the same occasion when the apostles returned from Olivet and entered this upper room. But the Greek phrase is not punctiliar, and is better translated “in these days”. As such, it refers to an occasion later in the time of waiting for the coming of the Holy Spirit, perhaps several days later. The other facts observed in this verse bear this out, for the group has grown from eleven apostles plus Mary plus the women who were closest to Jesus plus Jesus half-brothers (probably less than twenty people) to 120 people. Not just any people, mind you, but 120 “names” — people who were all known to each other by name (another small mis-translation in the NASB).

Acts 1:16-20 Please read the passage for yourself in your study Bible and note the following points in Peter’s message to the group: He calls them “brethren.” From his perspective at this point in the narrative, that meant “fellow Israelites.” (We will confirm this assertion in Chapters 2-4 soon.) He reminds them that David specifically prophesied concerning Judas Iscariot, including the manner of his death in a specific geographic location. He quotes from Psalm 109:8 as the ultimate application of David’s prophecy to their situation. Peter clearly saw himself and the people with him as operating in a period of time when they themselves were fulfilling prophecy, and it had everything to do with their hope and expectation — the restoration of David’s kingdom. Their expectation was clear and their perception was correct because God had openly promised these things to Israel, putting them down in writing (the “Law and the Prophets”) for all to read. Does the church of today have the same expectation and promises, or does she have something still hidden in God at this point in the narrative?

Since God did not begin to reveal the hidden mystery until later through the Apostle Paul, it was unknown to Peter and his exclusively Jewish audience. Peter’s conclusion? As the fulfillers of prophecy, on the basis of Psalm 109:8, it is clear that a replacement for Judas must be chosen. (Isn’t it interesting that these quotes — and leadership – come from the lips of an unlearned fisherman? This in itself is a fulfillment of Jesus promises to give them the right words to say at the right time – as the promised Kingdom approached.) Acts 1:21-26 Peter then describes the qualifications of Judas Iscariot’s replacement. He had to be a man who had accompanied the eleven continually, beginning from the time of Jesus baptism through the time of His ascension. Note that this does not mean that he had to be present at these events with the eleven, but certainly would have been with the eleven on some occasions when the resurrected Christ appeared to them and to many others. Such a man would be a qualified witness to the resurrection, as Peter suggests in the end of v22.

Two such men were identified from the group — Barsabbas (also called Justus and Joseph) and Matthias. But which one? They prayed for God’s active participation in the selection process because only He knew what was inside the hearts of both men, and thus which one would be fit to replace Judas in the work of apostleship. Then in traditional Hebrew fashion, reminiscent of the casting of Urim and Thummim in the Old Testament, they cast lots. God chose Matthias. It’s important to recognize that they asked God to make the choice, seeing what they could not, and that God did choose. Some have tried to dismiss this passage as Peter trying to move the program forward in his own strength without God’s approval, so that they can dismiss Matthias as the twelfth apostle to sit on the vacated twelfth throne over Israel, and make Paul the twelfth apostle. It’s clear that Matthias was God’s choice, not Peter’s, and that Matthias will sit on the twelfth throne in the Kingdom when it comes.

It’s equally clear that Paul must be another apostle, not associated with the Twelve, and not ruling over one of the twelve tribes of Israel — an apostle sent to another people for another time, a mystery still hidden in God at this point in the narrative. The church of this age, the Age of Grace, is still nowhere in sight! Prepare yourself well for the next post. It will require all of your powers of observation, and all of your ability and commitment to cast off previous notions of human interpretations. We are on the brink of a pivotal point in the Book of Acts – Pentecost and the coming of the Holy Spirit to the Apostles and their companions!

Question: Who replaced Judas Iscariot as one of the twelve disciples?
Answer: Matthias