Acts 1:24

And they prayed, "Lord, You know everyone's heart. Show us which of these two You have chosen

Study Bible

And they prayed
This phrase highlights the early church's reliance on prayer as a means of seeking divine guidance. The Greek word for "prayed" is "προσεύχομαι" (proseuchomai), which implies a deep, earnest communication with God. In the context of Acts, prayer is a foundational practice for the apostles, reflecting their dependence on God for wisdom and direction. This sets a precedent for believers to seek God's will through prayer, emphasizing the importance of aligning human actions with divine purposes.

Lord
The term "Lord" here is translated from the Greek "Κύριε" (Kyrie), a title of respect and authority. In the New Testament, it is often used to refer to Jesus Christ, acknowledging His divine sovereignty. This invocation underscores the apostles' recognition of Jesus' lordship and His authority to guide the church. It reflects a deep-seated belief in the risen Christ's active role in the life of the church, affirming His omniscience and omnipotence.

You know everyone's heart
This phrase is a profound acknowledgment of God's omniscience. The Greek word for "heart" is "καρδία" (kardia), which in biblical terms often refers to the inner self, including thoughts, emotions, and intentions. The apostles' recognition that God knows the heart emphasizes His ability to see beyond outward appearances and understand true motives. This is a comforting reminder for believers that God is intimately aware of their innermost being and can be trusted to guide them rightly.

Show us
The request "Show us" is a plea for divine revelation. The Greek word "ἀναδείξον" (anadeixon) means to reveal or make known. This reflects the apostles' desire for clarity and certainty in their decision-making process. It highlights the importance of seeking God's guidance in matters of significance, trusting that He will illuminate the path forward.

which of these two
This phrase indicates a specific decision-making context. The apostles were choosing between two candidates to replace Judas Iscariot as one of the Twelve. This scenario underscores the importance of discernment and the need for divine guidance in leadership selection within the church. It also reflects the early church's commitment to maintaining the integrity and continuity of apostolic leadership.

You have chosen
The phrase "You have chosen" is significant in understanding divine election. The Greek word "ἐξελέξω" (exelexo) means to select or choose. This acknowledges that God has a specific will and purpose for individuals within His plan. The apostles' reliance on God's choice rather than their own preferences highlights the belief in God's sovereign will and His active role in guiding the church's mission and leadership. This serves as a reminder of the importance of seeking God's will in all decisions, trusting in His perfect wisdom and plan.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Disciples
The remaining eleven apostles after Judas' betrayal and death, seeking to replace him.

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

3. Jerusalem
The location where the disciples were gathered, waiting for the Holy Spirit as Jesus instructed.

4. Prayer
The act of seeking divine guidance, demonstrating reliance on God's wisdom and knowledge.

5. The Lord
Referring to Jesus Christ, whom the disciples are addressing in their prayer for guidance.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Prayer in Decision-Making
Before making significant decisions, seek God's guidance through prayer, acknowledging His wisdom and understanding.

God's Omniscience
Trust in God's perfect knowledge of our hearts and motives, which surpasses human understanding.

Divine Selection and Calling
Recognize that God has a specific purpose and calling for each individual, and His choices are based on His perfect will.

Community and Unity in Seeking God's Will
Engage in communal prayer and discernment, valuing the collective wisdom and unity of the body of Christ.

Faith in God's Sovereignty
Have faith that God is in control and His plans are for our good, even when the path is not clear to us.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the disciples' approach to decision-making in Acts 1:24 serve as a model for us today?

2. In what ways can we ensure that our decisions align with God's will, as seen in the disciples' prayer?

3. How does understanding God's omniscience impact our trust in His guidance and decisions?

4. What role does community play in discerning God's will, and how can we apply this in our church or small group?

5. Reflect on a time when you sought God's guidance in a decision. How did prayer and trust in His sovereignty influence the outcome?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Samuel 16:7
This verse highlights that God looks at the heart, not outward appearances, similar to the disciples' prayer acknowledging God's knowledge of hearts.

Proverbs 3:5-6
Encourages trust in the Lord and seeking His guidance, paralleling the disciples' reliance on God to choose the right person.

John 15:16
Jesus tells His disciples that He chose them, which connects to the idea of divine selection in Acts 1:24.

Psalm 139:1-4
Speaks of God's intimate knowledge of each person, reinforcing the disciples' acknowledgment of God's omniscience.

James 1:5
Advises believers to ask God for wisdom, which aligns with the disciples' prayer for guidance.