The death of Jesus brought about uncertainty and confusion among the First Believers. Little-known Matthias was chosen to replace Judas as a member of the Twelve but forces were at work against the Believers that they did not expect as they struggled to further their message of love and hope.
Targeted Age Group:: 16+
What Inspired You to Write Your Book?
I was actually inspired to write this book during the writing of "The Gospel of Adara," my first book of historical Christian fiction. As I did research for that book I became intrigued with the man (Matthias) who replaced Judas. I also learned of the activities of the society of assassins, the Sicarii. All of this was happening concurrently, which fascinated me.
How Did You Come up With Your Characters?
Many of my characters are actual historical figures: Matthias, Barsabbas, Cephas (Peter), Eleazor, one of the founders of the Sicarii, and others are part of the book. Using research I attempted to bring forth a faithful rendering of what I believed these people were like.
Book Sample
Barsabbas cleared his throat. His mouth was extremely dry and he felt slightly dizzy. He told himself the result did not matter, that he would still do whatever he could to teach all those he met the transformative truth of Jesus.
Cephas placed the bones on the table and grasped both men by the shoulders. Barsabbas was always shocked at the power in the older man’s grip. He had not fished the boats for many years but he had lost none of his strength.
“We must pray,” he said, closing his eyes. Barsabbas quickly closed his own.
“Abba, giver of all life, bringer of all blessings and knower of all truth, we come before you today to ask your guidance to make us whole again. We know both these men are true believers in Jesus the Christ, the Son of Man and the Son of God. They will both do your will, HaShem, but help us to make the choice to know which man should join our elders. Make your will known through the casting of these lots. We want nothing but that your will be done. Bless us with your presence. Help us do your work, Abba! Amen.”
At that, Cephas immediately reached down, grabbed the bones and threw them. A mark appeared and Barsabbas tried to remember who Cephas was casting for first.
“Barsabbas drew a mark,” Cephas said and Barsabbas let go of his breath. Now it was time for Matthias.
Cephas threw again and again a mark appeared, which made Barsabbas wonder if HaShem was having trouble making up His mind.
Two more throws of the bones brought marks for both men again. On the fourth casting of the bones, Barsabbas did not get the mark and, seconds later, Cephas cast the bones and a mark showed.
Matthias would be the next member of the inner circle.
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