“I told him that his doctrine was of the Devil that he was in reality in possession of wicked and depraved spirit.” — Joseph Smith1
Robert Matthews, also known as Joshua the Jewish Minister or Prophet Matthias, was born in Cambridge, New York around 1788. He adopted a blend of Methodism and Judaism and claimed to be the reincarnation of the apostle Matthias, even asserting he was God the Father incarnate. His beliefs included apocalyptic prophecies and a unique view of resurrection involving spiritual transmigration.2
He eventually met with Joseph Smith in Kirtland, Ohio, in 1835, and the two had intense theological discussions. However, the relationship was short-lived due to Matthews' controversial past and criminal allegations, including accusations of violence and manipulation, which led Smith to distance himself from Matthews. Matthews' radical views and erratic behavior ultimately led to his institutionalization. There is some mystery surrounding the end of his life, but he is thought to have died in Iowa Territory around 1841.3
