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Dear Catholic Exchange,
Who took the place of Judas the traitor among the tribes. Jesus never chose the new one. Rather he was chosen by lot. Please help. Thanks and bless!
Grace and Peace,
Luis Monteagudo
Luis,
I'm not sure what you mean by “tribes.” The choice of Matthias by the apostles is the first instance of apostolic succession. That's why the apostles speak of Matthias taking over Judas' “office” (Acts 1:20). Jesus created the “office” of apostle and appointed Judas to it. Judas' unworthiness does not obliterate the office, so the Church, guided by the Spirit, appointed another man to fill the role.
Mark Shea
Senior Content Editor
Catholic Exchange
