[Seven_0]

Interesting isn't it, you're left with pitting scripture against scripture: either Paul or Mathias was not an actual apostle, or the 12 was symbolic of the 12 Tribes of Israel demonstrating the continuity of convenient between old and new testament.

No, I am not left with pitting scripture against scripture. These scriptures are inspired by God and there is no reason to think that God has overlooked the details. I do not fear talking of things that I cannot explain but I note that you have left out some possibilities.

Both the numbers 12 and 14 appear many times in scripture and are symbolic. Revelation 7 leaves out two of the original tribes. It is possible that both Paul and Mathias are part of the twelve.

Seven

[conservonator]

Both the numbers 12 and 14 appear many times in scripture and are symbolic. Revelation 7 leaves out two of the original tribes. It is possible that both Paul and Mathias are part of the twelve.

Could be, but making divination based on numerology rather than a coherent, seamless reading of the entirety of Scripture, seems rather dangerous. The basic point is that the concept of office is Biblical. The fact that the Apostolic office grew from the original 12 is also biblical.