Acts 1:26

Then they cast lots, and the lot fell to Matthias; so he was added to the eleven apostles.

Study Bible

Then they cast lots
The practice of casting lots was a common method in ancient times for making decisions or discerning God's will. The Greek word for "lots" is "klēros," which refers to a small object used in this decision-making process. This method is seen throughout the Old Testament, such as in Leviticus 16:8, where lots were cast to choose between the two goats on the Day of Atonement. The casting of lots was not seen as a game of chance but as a means to allow God to reveal His choice. In this context, the apostles were seeking divine guidance to fill the vacancy left by Judas Iscariot, demonstrating their reliance on God's sovereignty.

and the lot fell to Matthias
The phrase "the lot fell" indicates the outcome of the casting process. The Greek verb "pipto" means "to fall," suggesting that the decision was not random but divinely orchestrated. Matthias, whose name means "gift of God," was chosen to become the twelfth apostle. This selection underscores the belief that God is actively involved in the leadership and direction of His church. Matthias' inclusion among the apostles highlights the importance of maintaining the symbolic number twelve, representing the twelve tribes of Israel, and ensuring the continuity of the apostolic witness.

so he was added to the eleven apostles
The phrase "he was added" comes from the Greek word "prostithemi," meaning "to add" or "to join." This indicates that Matthias was not merely a replacement but was fully integrated into the group of apostles. The number twelve holds significant biblical symbolism, representing completeness and divine order. By restoring the number of apostles to twelve, the early church affirmed its connection to the foundational structure established by Jesus. This act of adding Matthias also emphasizes the importance of community and unity within the body of Christ, as the apostles were tasked with spreading the Gospel to the ends of the earth.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Matthias
Chosen to replace Judas Iscariot as one of the twelve apostles. His selection signifies the restoration of the group to its full number, symbolizing completeness and readiness for the mission ahead.

2. The Eleven Apostles
The remaining apostles after Judas' betrayal and death. They are in a period of waiting and preparation for the coming of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost.

3. Casting Lots
An ancient practice used to discern God's will. In this context, it was a method to seek divine guidance in choosing the right person to join the apostles.

4. Jerusalem
The location where the apostles and other followers of Jesus were gathered. It is significant as the starting point of the early church and the place where the Holy Spirit would soon descend.

5. Judas Iscariot
The apostle who betrayed Jesus, leading to his crucifixion. His absence created the need for a replacement to maintain the symbolic number of twelve apostles.

Teaching Points

Divine Guidance in Decision-Making
The apostles sought God's will through prayer and casting lots, reminding us to seek divine guidance in our decisions.

Restoration and Completeness
The selection of Matthias restored the group of apostles to twelve, symbolizing readiness and completeness for the mission of spreading the Gospel.

Faithfulness in Waiting
The apostles' actions during this period of waiting for the Holy Spirit teach us the importance of preparation and faithfulness in times of anticipation.

The Role of Community in Decision-Making
The decision to choose Matthias was made in the context of the gathered believers, highlighting the importance of community discernment.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the practice of casting lots in Acts 1:26 reflect the apostles' trust in God's sovereignty, and how can we apply this trust in our decision-making today?

2. In what ways does the restoration of the twelve apostles symbolize readiness for the mission of the early church, and how can we ensure our readiness for the tasks God calls us to?

3. How does the selection of Matthias fulfill the prophecy mentioned in Acts 1, and what does this teach us about the reliability of God's promises?

4. What role does community play in the decision-making process in Acts 1:26, and how can we incorporate community discernment in our own lives?

5. How can we remain faithful and prepared during times of waiting, as the apostles did before the coming of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Proverbs 16:33
This verse highlights the belief that while humans cast lots, the decision is ultimately from the Lord, emphasizing divine sovereignty in the selection of Matthias.

Psalm 109:8
This scripture is referenced earlier in Acts 1 as a prophecy concerning Judas' replacement, showing the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecy in the New Testament.

Acts 2:1-4
The coming of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost, which follows the selection of Matthias, marks the empowerment of the apostles for their mission.