Acts 1:23-26 And they appointed two, Joseph called Barsabas, who was surnamed Justus, and Matthias.… 1. The requisite qualifications of apostleship were discerned in two members of the company. The claims of the two were probably equally balanced and superior to those of the rest. 2. The whole matter was referred to the Head of the Church in prayer. 3. They prayed Him to settle for them what they could not settle for themselves. No choice of theirs could make a man an apostle. 4. They looked for the expression of the Divine decision in the best way known to them. The lot had been sanctioned by God under the Old Dispensation; but it is significant that no more is heard of it. The unction of the Holy One rendered it unnecessary. 5. The decision asked for was cordially accepted. This beginning of ecclesiastical business presents to us — I. RIGHT-MINDED PEOPLE NOT YET FILLED WITH THE HOLY SPIRIT. The truth had had its effect upon them, but like many now they were only in a course of preparation for the fulness of Divine knowledge. Such now should do the will of God as they know it as these did, and seek the promised blessing in prayer. II. RIGHT-MINDED PEOPLE, THOUGH NOT YET FILLED WITH THE SPIRIT, YET DIRECTED BY THEIR CONFIDENCE IN CHRIST. They believed that He, the Searcher of hearts, was surveying them; that prayer to Him would be answered; that they had a work to do for which He must fit them; and though one had fallen another would be found for his place. So now there are servants of Christ who, though not assured of sonship, are yet on the road to assurance. Let such maintain their confidence in Christ, and they will reach the goal as the disciples did. III. THE APOSTOLIC STAFF COMPLETED IN PROPER TIME. The proper time was during the ten days. The disciples were expectant, but their confidence was increased when they felt that they had done their duty. Seamen are the more hopeful when the breeze strikes on the spread canvas, and physicians when they have used all the resources of their science. So congregations should be ready for what God waits to give, by a full cordial acceptance of His will. (W. Hudson.) Parallel Verses KJV: And they appointed two, Joseph called Barsabas, who was surnamed Justus, and Matthias.WEB: They put forward two, Joseph called Barsabbas, who was surnamed Justus, and Matthias. |
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