Acts 1:21

Therefore it is necessary to choose one of the men who have accompanied us the whole time the Lord Jesus went in and out among us,

Study Bible

Therefore it is necessary
The phrase "it is necessary" underscores the imperative nature of the task at hand. In the Greek, the word used is "dei," which conveys a sense of divine necessity or obligation. This reflects the early church's understanding that their actions were not merely human decisions but were guided by divine mandate. The apostles recognized the importance of fulfilling God's plan, emphasizing the seriousness with which they approached their mission.

to choose one of the men
The selection of "one of the men" highlights the communal and inclusive nature of the early church. The Greek word for "men" here is "andrōn," which can refer to males specifically, but in this context, it emphasizes the need for a witness who has been part of the community. This choice was not arbitrary but was rooted in the need for continuity and shared experience among the apostles.

who have accompanied us
The phrase "who have accompanied us" indicates the importance of shared experience and witness. The Greek word "syneleusai" suggests a close association or companionship. This requirement ensured that the new apostle would have firsthand knowledge of Jesus' ministry, reinforcing the authenticity and credibility of their testimony.

the whole time
The emphasis on "the whole time" underscores the necessity for a comprehensive witness. The Greek phrase "panta chronon" implies an unbroken period of time, highlighting the importance of consistency and faithfulness. This requirement ensured that the new apostle had a complete understanding of Jesus' teachings and actions.

the Lord Jesus
Referring to "the Lord Jesus" affirms the centrality of Christ in the life and mission of the apostles. The title "Lord" (Greek: "Kyrios") denotes authority and divinity, while "Jesus" (Greek: "Iēsous") is His earthly name, emphasizing His role as Savior. This duality reflects the early church's recognition of Jesus as both divine and human, the cornerstone of their faith.

went in and out among us
The phrase "went in and out among us" conveys the idea of daily interaction and fellowship. The Greek "eisēlthen kai exēlthen" suggests a regular, ongoing presence. This highlights the relational aspect of Jesus' ministry, where He was not distant or aloof but actively engaged with His followers, setting a model for apostolic ministry.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Apostles
The group of Jesus' closest followers, tasked with spreading His teachings and establishing the early Church.

2. Jesus Christ
The central figure of Christianity, whose life, death, and resurrection are the foundation of the faith.

3. Matthias and Joseph (called Barsabbas)
The two candidates considered to replace Judas Iscariot as an apostle.

4. Jerusalem
The city where the apostles were gathered and where the early Church began.

5. The Ascension
The event preceding this passage, where Jesus ascended to heaven, leaving the apostles to continue His work.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Eyewitness Testimony
The apostles prioritized selecting someone who had been with Jesus from the beginning, emphasizing the value of firsthand experience in bearing witness to Christ's life and teachings.

The Role of Divine Guidance in Decision-Making
The apostles sought God's guidance through prayer and casting lots, demonstrating reliance on divine wisdom in making significant decisions.

The Continuity of Leadership in the Church
The replacement of Judas highlights the importance of maintaining leadership and continuity within the Church to ensure the faithful transmission of the Gospel.

The Call to Faithful Discipleship
Just as the apostles sought a faithful witness, believers today are called to be consistent and faithful in their walk with Christ, ready to testify to His work in their lives.

The Necessity of Community in Ministry
The decision-making process involved the entire community of believers, illustrating the importance of communal discernment and support in ministry.

Bible Study Questions

1. Why was it important for the new apostle to have been with Jesus from the beginning of His ministry?

2. How can we apply the apostles' reliance on prayer and divine guidance in our own decision-making processes?

3. In what ways does the continuity of leadership in the early Church inform our understanding of leadership roles in the Church today?

4. How can we, as modern-day disciples, ensure that we are faithful witnesses to Christ in our daily lives?

5. What role does community play in your spiritual journey, and how can you engage more deeply with your faith community?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Acts 1:15-26
This passage provides the context for Acts 1:21, detailing the process of selecting a new apostle.

Luke 24:44-49
Jesus' instructions to the apostles before His ascension, emphasizing the importance of their witness.

John 15:27
Jesus speaks of the apostles as witnesses, highlighting the necessity of their firsthand experience with Him.

1 Corinthians 15:5-8
Paul lists those who witnessed the resurrected Christ, underscoring the importance of eyewitness testimony.

Psalm 109:8
Quoted in Acts 1:20, this prophecy is seen as a foreshadowing of Judas' replacement.