The Book of Acts
Lesson Number 4
TRANSLATION LEGEND: AMPLIFIED or AMP = Amplified Bible, (1965), ASV=American Standard Version (1901), BBE=Bible in Basic English (1949), DRA=Douay-Rheims (1899), ESV=English Stand Version (2001), IE = International English, ISV = International Standard Version (1967), JPS = Jewish Publicatrion Society (1917), KJV=King James Version (1611), LIVING = Living Bible (1971), MONTGOMERY = Montgomery’s New Testament (2001), MRD = Peshitta-James Murdock Translation (1852), NAB=New American Bible (2002), NASB=New American Standard Bible (1977), NAU=New American Standard Bible (1995), NIB=New International Bible, NIV=New International Version (1984), NJB=New Jerusalem Bible (1985), NKJV=New King James Version (1979), NLT=New Living Translation (1996), NRSV=New Revised Standard Version (1989), PHILLIPS = J B Phillips New Testament (1962), PNT = BISHOP’S New Testament (1595), RSV=Revised Standard Version (1952), TNK=JPS Tanakj (1985), Webster=The Webster Bible (1833),WEYMOUTH=Weymouth’s New Testament (1903), WILLIAMS = William’s New Testament (1937), TNK = JPS Tanakh (1985), TYNDALE= Tyndale’s Bible (1526), WYCLIFFE= Wycliffe New Testament (1382), YLT=Young’s Literal Translation (1862).
LEXICON LEGEND: FRIEBERG=Friberg Lexicon, UBS=UBS Lexicon, LOUW-NIDA=Louw-Nida Lexicon, LIDDELL SCOTT=Liddell Scott Lexicon,
THAYER=Thayer’s Greek Lexicon
THE CHOOSING OF MATTHIAS
“ 1:15 And in those days Peter stood up in the midst of the disciples, and said, (the number of names together were about an hundred and twenty,) 16 Men and brethren, this scripture must needs have been fulfilled, which the Holy Ghost by the mouth of David spake before concerning Judas, which was guide to them that took Jesus. 17 For he was numbered with us, and had obtained part of this ministry. 18 Now this man purchased a field with the reward of iniquity; and falling headlong, he burst asunder in the midst, and all his bowels gushed out. 19 And it was known unto all the dwellers at Jerusalem; insomuch as that field is called in their proper tongue, Aceldama, that is to say, The field of blood. 20 For it is written in the book of Psalms, Let his habitation be desolate, and let no man dwell therein: and his bishopric let another take. 21 Wherefore of these men which have companied with us all the time that the Lord Jesus went in and out among us, 22 Beginning from the baptism of John, unto that same day that he was taken up from us, must one be ordained to be a witness with us of His resurrection. 23 And they appointed two, Joseph called Barsabas, who was surnamed Justus, and Matthias. 24 And they prayed, and said, Thou, Lord, which knowest the hearts of all men, show whether of these two Thou hast chosen, 25 That he may take part of this ministry and apostleship, from which Judas by transgression fell, that he might go to his own place. 26 And they gave forth their lots; and the lot fell upon Matthias; and he was numbered with the eleven apostles.” (Acts 1:15-26)
INTRODUCTION
As the disciples “wait for the promise of the Father,” Peter is inspired to see that certain Scriptures must be fulfilled BEFORE that promise comes upon them. He perceives a text in which David refers to Judas, though not by name, and sees what needs to be done. His great heart is directed to review the fall of Judas, integrating that perception with the Word of God. In this text, we will see how the Holy Spirit can lead a person to think. The thought processes will be honed to their finest edge, so that a sound diagnosis of events, a remarkable exegesis of Scripture, and a flawless course of action can be articulated. It will also become apparent that the unity of the Spirit removed all carnal obstacles to the fulfillment of the will of God. People will be aware of what they can and cannot do. They will know what to do when their knowledge reaches its limitation. Their faith will also enable them to settle for the answer God gives.
When He was yet with them, Jesus said to His disciples, “Again I say unto you, That if two of you shall agree on earth as touching any thing that they shall ask, it shall be done for them of my Father which is in heaven. For where two or three are gathered together in My name, there am I in the midst of them” (Mat 18:19-20). In the text before us, this promise will be fulfilled in a remarkable way. The people are gathered together, and they are in agreement. During this time, when outward circumstances were most unfavorable, they had come together like the saints in Malachi’s day: “Then they that feared the LORD spake often one to another” (Mal 3:16). They worshiped Jesus and rejoiced together in their return to Jerusalem (Lk 24:52). They were continually “in the Temple, praising and blessing God” (Lk 24:53). Further, they were asking for something to be done by the Father which is in heaven: “These all continued with one accord in prayer and supplication” (Acts 1:14). Now it will be confirmed that Jesus is among them, and the Father will hear them. The Sovereign God of heaven will take due note of this solemn assembly.
I am persuaded than many noble spiritual desires are virtually aborted by the condition of the people. They are not together as they should be. They tend to be joined together by a fleshly unanimity rather than by their faith and common fear of the Lord. They really do not meet in the name of the Lord, but in the name of their church, or their theological persuasion, or some other earthly purpose. They are not operating by the Divine agenda.
Consider what remarkable circumstances attend this gathering.
1. They have been tutored by Jesus for forty days in things pertaining to the Kingdom of God (Acts 1:3).
2. They have been told what was going to happen to them (Acts 1:5).
3. Jesus had blessed them (Lk 24:50).
4. They have witnessed Jesus ascend, returning to heaven (Acts 1:10).
5. Angels have told them He will return in the same manner (Acts 1:11).
6. They returned to Jerusalem, worshiping Jesus and filled with joy (Lk 24:52).
7. They have been in the Temple continually (Lk 24:53).
8. They are all together (Acts 1:13-14a).
9. They are in one accord (Acts 1:14b).
10. They have been continuing in prayer and supplication (Acts 1:14c).
Does anyone marvel that such a place is fertile spiritual ground? These brethren were not fishing, as some had chosen to do after Jesus had first risen from the dead (John 21:3). They were not filled with all manner of questions, as when they had first met with the risen Christ (Acts 1:6). There is a certain assurance and stability among this people. Their hearts have been affected, so that they are more in tune with heaven than with the earth. Holy desires have been awakened. Great expectation has risen to prominence. The promises of Jesus have moved to the forefront of their thinking. Some of them no doubt included the following – promises Jesus stated to those who followed Him and inquired of Him.
➪ “But whosoever drinketh of the water that I shall give him shall never thirst; but the water that I shall give him shall be in him a well of water springing up into everlasting life” (John 4:14).
➪ “I am the bread of life: he that cometh to Me shall never hunger; and he that believeth on Me shall never thirst” (John 6:35).
➪ “He that believeth on Me, as the scripture hath said, out of his belly shall flow rivers of living water” (John 7:38).
There must have been recollections of such statements as, “theirs is the kingdom of heaven,” “they shall be comforted,” “they shall be filled,” “they shall obtain mercy,” and “they shall all be taught of God” (Matt 5:4,6,7; John 6:45).
There were also promises Jesus gave to His disciples on the night of His betrayal, when He chose to meet with the Twelve apostles. After the dismissal of Judas the traitor, He spoke of things that were going to come – things that would involve the other apostles.
➪ “If ye shall ask any thing in My name, I will do it” (John 14:14).
➪ “And I will pray the Father, and He shall give you another Comforter, that He may abide with you for ever; Even the Spirit of truth; whom the world cannot receive, because it seeth Him not, neither knoweth Him: but ye know Him; for He dwelleth with you, and shall be in you” (John 14:16-17).
➪ “I will not leave you comfortless: I will come to you” (John 14:18).
➪ “He that hath My commandments, and keepeth them, he it is that loveth Me: and he that loveth Me shall be loved of My Father, and I will love him, and will manifest
Myself to him” (John 14:21).
➪ “If a man love Me, he will keep My words: and My Father will love him, and We will come unto him, and make Our abode with him” (John 14:23).
➪ “But when the Comforter is come, whom I will send unto you from the Father, even the Spirit of truth, which proceedeth from the Father, He shall testify of Me” (John 15:26).
➪ “Nevertheless I tell you the truth; It is expedient for you that I go away: for if I go not away, the Comforter will not come unto you; but if I depart, I will send Him unto you” (John 16:7).
➪ “Howbeit when He, the Spirit of truth, is come, He will guide you into all truth: for He shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever He shall hear, that shall he speak: and He will show you things to come” (John 16:13).
➪ “And in that day ye shall ask Me nothing. Verily, verily, I say unto you, Whatsoever ye shall ask the Father in My name, He will give it you” (John 16:23).
➪ “At that day ye shall ask in My name: and I say not unto you, that I will pray the Father for you. For the Father Himself loveth you, because ye have loved Me, and have believed that I came out from God” (John 16:26-27).
DO YOU WANT A BLESSING?
Those with tender hearts do want blessing from the Lord. They want to participate in His work, be used by Him, and walk with Him in the fulfillment of His eternal purpose. We can learn from this text that such benefits require a certain spiritual soil. There is a frame of mind that is capable of receiving from God. There is a public environment that is conducive to blessing and Divine direction.
There is an approach to a proper environment in which men seek to simulate what they really do not possess. They feign a preference for the Lord, but their manner of life betrays the absence of such a thing. They pretend that they enjoy the presence of the Lord, but can only do so when their kind of music and other expressions are employed. An acute consciousness of God is missing, and thus they try to bring Him down into the assembly, as though He leaps from His throne to give heed to those going through certain routines. Fresh from the world and its involvements, such people imagine they can produce a spiritual environment by means of a routine, or an exercise, or some other external expression. These are fundamentally wrong ways of thinking.
The brethren in our text have come from the presence of the Lord, they are not seeking that presence. Their minds have been exposed to extended teaching about the Kingdom of God. They have been enraptured by the presence of the Lord, and “many infallible proofs” that accompanied His matchless teaching. They are not trying to contact the Lord, attempting to appropriate honest and good hearts, or get free from enslaving carnal habits. Their worship, praise, prayer, and supplication are the RESULT of what they have seen and heard – what they have experienced.
These brethren are in a position to be directed from heaven. The words of Jesus Himself are in their hearts and minds. They are expecting what the Lord has promised. They are in strict accord with the Divine agenda, refusing to leave the city until what has been promised to them has come to pass.
Now that they are in tune with the heavenly frequency, there will no doubt be some Divine direction. They will become even more fully involved in God’s purpose. Having removed themselves from worldly influences, they are “meet for the Master’s use” (2 Tim 2:21).
PETER STANDS UP IN THEIR MIDST
“ 1:15 And in those days Peter stood up in the midst of the disciples, and said, (the number of names together were about an hundred and twenty).”
Now, in this most excellent spiritual environment, something is sure to take place. The Lord Himself is prominent in the thinking of the people. What has been promised by Jesus is now their focused expectation. They are anticipating an unusual baptism (Acts 1:5). They are looking forward to being “endued with power from on high” (Lk 24:49). Their hearts are being oriented for the experience of being Christ’s witnesses (Acts 1:8). They are praying to God, and lifting up supplications to Him. Now, some communication will come back from heaven – some direction from the Lord. There is something to be done, and the Lord will direct them in how to do it.
It is possible to pray and beseech the Lord for some needed benefit or direction, yet not remain in the presence of the Lord long enough to get an answer. Often the Lord bears long with His children, not answering or directing them at once (Lk 18:7). This is such a time.
IN THOSE DAYS
“And in those days . . . ” Other versions read, “And at this time,” NIV “In these days,” ASV “During those days,” NAB “During this time,” NLT “This prayer meeting went on for several days. During this time,” LIVING “It was on one of these days,” WEYMOUTH, “It was during these days,” MONTOMERY “Now on one of those days,” AMPLIFIED and “It was during this period.” PHILLIPS
The following event occurred on one of the days after Christ’s ascension, and before the day of Pentecost – one of the days the disciples were all together, in one place, in one accord, and continuing in prayer and supplication. It was while they were waiting for “the promise of the Father,” as Jesus had instructed them to do (Acts 1:4) – tarrying “in the city of Jerusalem” until they “be endued with power from on high” (Lk 24:49). We have no idea on which of the ten days what follows occurred. The Ethiopic version (5th-6th Century) reads “on that day,” suggesting that it was the same day they went to the upper room (1:13). This cannot be supported. However, it does appear as though it was early in the ten-day period. The important thing to note is that what follows took place in a truly spiritual environment where hearts were supple and united in Christ Jesus.
PETER STOOD UP IN THEIR MIDST
“Peter stood up in the midst of the disciples, and said . . .” Other versions read “among the believers,” NASB “in the midst of the brethren,” NIV “got up among the brothers,” BBE “stood up to speak to the brothers,” NJB and “Stood up and addressed them as follows.” NLT
Peter, together with Andrew, was the first to be called to follow Jesus (Mat 4:18-19). Frequently, he had spoken out first, or in behalf of the disciples during Jesus’ ministry (Matt 14:28; 15:15; 16;16;,17:4; 18:21; 19:27; 26:33,35; Lk 5:5; ; 12:41; John 13:37).
Now Peter rises to speak again. This, time, however, he is not going to ask any questions, or make some casual suggestions. He has been renewed in the “spirit of his mind,” and he sees things with the kind of clarity that comes from being consciously in the presence of the exalted Christ. His spiritual senses have been honed to a fine edge, and his reasoning powers have been sanctified in the crucible of prayer and supplication. He is in tune with heaven, and thus can receive insight and direction. All of the Scripture to which he has subjected his mind will now be accessible to his reasoning powers. He will be able to integrate the truth of Scripture with circumstance, and associate key events with the will of the Lord.
Looking at it from another point of this, Jesus is among the assembly, for it has been convened in His name. He had promised them He would be in such gatherings: “For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them” (Matt 18:20). He is at this gathering, not as an Observer, but as the Director and Revealer. Speaking through Peter, the Head of the body will address the body through one of its premier members. He will lead them in the fulfillment of what has already been determined in heaven.
THE NUMBER OF NAMES
“ . . . the number of names together . . .” Other versions read, “a group numbering,” NASB “a gathering of ,” NIV “together the crowd,” NRSV “now the number of names that were in one place,” ESV “people in the congregation,” NJB “the multitude also of the names at the same place was,” YLT and “the whole number of whom gathered together.” AMPLIFIED
Some of the versions do a disservice by depersonalizing the people who were gathered together. This is done by using such terms as “a group,” NASB “a gathering,” NIV and “the crowd.” NRSV The word used here (ovnoma,twn) means “the name by which a person is called; proper names.” LIDDELL-SCOTT In commenting on the significance of this word, the lexicographer Thayer writes, “By a usage chiefly Hebraistic the name is used for everything which the name covers, everything the thought or feeling of which is roused in the mind by mentioning, hearing, remembering, the name, i. e. for one's rank, authority, interests, pleasure, command, excellences, deeds, etc.” THAYER
While some may consider this an insignificant point, the Spirit is accenting the composition of this group, and not the group itself. Expressions like “the eleven,” “the women,” “Mary the mother of Jesus,” and “His brothers,” summon a body of thought into our minds. When we hear the name “Peter,” or “John,” or “James,” it brings with it all kinds of associations. These were individuals who had been touched by the Lord Jesus. Their lives had been significantly altered by their association with Him. Their primary allegiance was to Him. That is why they were gathered together. That is why they engaged in pray and supplication, rather than in mere social activities.
When God calls people out of the world, He does not destroy their personal identity. He rather sanctifies it. They do not lose their individuality in the group – something that often happens in worldly gatherings. When God changed the identity of a person, or altered their role and significance, He often changed their name. Abram to Abraham, Sarai to Sarah, Jacob to Israel, Simon to Cephas, Saul to Paul, etc. Thus they would be remembered primarily for what occurred to them after they became involved in the purpose and work of the Lord.
In the world, you can have a large crowd with only a few that are actually involved in the purpose of that crowd. But this is not the case with the gathering of which Luke is writing. These people were not only in the same place, they were all of one accord. They did not come to be entertained, but joined in continuing in prayer and supplication. This assembly bore little resemblance to the common church gatherings of our day.
ABOUT AN HUNDRED AND TWENTY
“ . . . were about an hundred and twenty.” Other versions read, “about a hundred and twenty,” NASB “about one hundred and twenty persons,” NIV“there were about a hundred and twenty people in the congregation,” NJB and “as it were, an hundred and twenty.” YLT
We do not know if this was the original number that gathered, or if the numbers had significantly increased. If the number had grown, it was doubtless owing to the disciples being regularly in the Temple, “praising and blessing God” (Lk 24:53). Perhaps some had inquired about their exuberance and, upon hearing the reason for their rejoicing and praise, had joined the number.
Above Five Hundred At Once
In recounting the post resurrection appearances of Christ, Paul mentions Christ showing Himself to a rather large gathering. “And that He was seen of Cephas, then of the twelve: after that, He was seen of above five hundred brethren at once; of whom the greater part remain unto this present, but some are fallen asleep. After that, He was seen of James; then of all the apostles” (1 Cor 15:5-7).
We do not know for sure when or where this post-resurrection appearance took place. There is a general agreement among Bible students that this is probably the appearance of Jesus in Galilee, where He had made most of His disciples. Even before He died, Jesus told the Apostles, “But after I am risen again, I will go before you into Galilee” (Matt 26:32). An angel told the women who came to the tomb, “And go quickly, and tell His disciples that He is risen from the dead; and, behold, He goeth before you into Galilee; there shall ye see Him: lo, I have told you” (Mat 28:7). Mark’s record reads, “But go your way, tell His disciples and Peter that He goeth before you into Galilee: there shall ye see Him, as He said unto you” (Mark 16:7). On their way to the disciples, Jesus Himself met the women and said, “Be not afraid: go tell My brethren that they go into Galilee, and there shall they see Me” (Matt 28:10). While it is admittedly an assumption, it is difficult to believe that the promise that His disciples would see Him in Galilee was kept secret by “the eleven,” or the women who first heard the message confirmed, which Jesus had promised on the night of His betrayal. Notwithstanding, it is not a matter worthy of extended argumentation.
The point to be noted here is that all of these 500 people were not present at the time of our text – during the ten days when the disciples were waiting “for the promise of the Father.” It was certainly not because a great number of that five hundred had passed away, for nearly twenty-seven years later Paul said of them, “of whom the greater part remain unto the present” (1 Cor 15:6).
Now, only 24% of that original five hundred are present, continuing in one accord with prayer and supplication (assuming that number included the ones now present). We will find that there is no effort to round up the missing ones. The work of the Lord proceeds without them, with not so much as a word being said about them. Those who insist on absenting themselves from holy assemblies do not take anything away from those assemblies, as we will see. They are the ones who miss the blessing, as Thomas did when He was not present when the Lord Jesus “breathed on them, and said to them, “Receive the Holy Spirit’” (John 20:22). Be assured that God’s work is not hindered because some professing disciples refuse to be involved in it! The Lord will use the ones that are present. In this case, the three hundred and eighty missing disciples did not participate in the following.
➪ Hearing Peter’s exposition of the fall of Judas and the necessity of filling his vacated office (1:16-25).
➪ The casting of lots, used by God to make His choice of the twelfth apostle (1:26).
➪ Being together on the day of Pentecost when a sudden sound came from heaven like a rushing mighty wind (2:1-2).
➪ Being filled with the Holy Spirit and speaking in other languages as the Spirit gave them utterance (2:3-4).
➪ The gathering of the multitude at the report of these happenings (2:5-13).
➪ The inaugural address of Peter, in which an interpretation of the death and resurrection of Christ was expounded (2:11-36).
➪ The conviction, response, and baptism of 3,000 “devout” Jews (2:37-41).
Whether or not those three hundred and eighty were included in those who “continued steadfastly in the Apostles doctrine,” witnessing the “many signs and wonders” that “were done by the apostles,” we do not know. Did they finally join them when “all that believed were together,” and continued “daily with one accord in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, did eat their meat with gladness and singleness of heart, praising God and having favor with all the people” (2:44-47)? We simply do not kn ow.
But that is the whole point of bringing this up. There are still multitudes of professing Christians of which we stand in doubt. We do not know if they have really “tasted that the Lord is gracious” (1 Pet 2:3). We do not really know if their affection has been set on things above, where Jesus sits on the right hand of God (Col 3:1-2). We do not know if they are giving diligence to make their “calling and election sure” (2 Pet 1:10), or if they are really “strangers and pilgrims” in the world (1 Pet 2:11). It is not clear whether or not they are fighting “the good fight of faith,” and seeking to “lay hold on eternal life” (1 Tim 6:12). When we think of them it is not clear if they are seeking “a better country” or a “continuing city” (Heb 11:14; 13:14). Like the five hundred, they have seen something, but it is not bearing acceptable fruit in their lives. Alas, we must say of them what Paul said of the Galatian church: “I stand in doubt of you” (Gal 4:20). When we consider their manners, we stand in fear, like Paul did of the Corinthians: “But I fear, lest by any means, as the serpent beguiled Eve through his subtlety, so your minds should be corrupted from the simplicity that is in Christ” (2 Cor 11:3).
I would like to be able to say this applies to only a few professing believers, and represents the exception rat her than the rule. However, as with the five hundred, it appears to be the majority (in their case 76%), rather than the minority. It is a sad consideration, but one that we must ponder!
THE SCRIPTURE MUST BE FULFILLED
“ 16 Men and brethren, this scripture must needs have been fulfilled, which the Holy Ghost by the mouth of David spake before concerning Judas, which was guide to them that took Jesus.”
Now Peter will surface as a leader, fulfilling the name that Jesus gave Him – “Cephas. Which is by interpretation, A stone” (John 1:42). The meaning of “stone” (from the Greek word Pe,troj) is “a rock, a ledge or cliff.” THAYER Of the word Robertson says, “In the ancient Greek petra was used for a massive ledge of rock like Stone Mountain, while petros was a detached fragment of the ledge, though itself large. This distinction may exist in Matthew 16:17-18, except that Jesus probably used Aramaic which would not have such a distinction,” ROBERTSON’S WORD PICTURES
Some have said that “Cephas,” or “Peter,” meant “pebble,” while “Rock” (as in Matthew 16:18) means boulder. This is not so, even though Peter was, from one point of view, small and meaningless when compared to Jesus Himself. Jesus did not, however, give Simon a new name that compared him with the Lord. Peter did not have to be renamed to see that there really was no comparison between his natural self and the Lord Jesus (i.e. Luke 5:8). The point of the name is that Peter would be noted for strength, stability, and stamina. He would be made into the kind of man that could not be moved too and fro by circumstances. He would speak words that were foundational – words men could act upon in full confidence of being advantaged by them. He would be of the same spiritual substance as Christ, but not in the same measure.
Now, behold how Peter speaks. It will be as a great stone. His words will be firm, stable, and sure. There will be no shifting sand in them, or stubble that is easily consumed. He will ask no questions. He will make no inquiries. He will not put forth various alternatives. He will not voice a mere opinion. He will not make a casual observation.
MEN AND BRETHREN
“Men and brethren . . . ” Other versions read, “Brothers,” NASB “Friends,” NRSV and “My brothers.” BBE
This expression is used eleven times in the book of Acts (1:16; 2:29,37; 13:15,26,38; 15:7,13; 23:1,6; 28:17). In all of the instances, Jews are involved. Peter uses these words to speak to Jews, both converted and unconverted (1:16; 2:29; 15:7). Paul used them when speaking to Jews (13:26,38; 23:1,6; 28:17). When certain Jews were convicted of sin on the day of Pentecost, they used these words to inquire what they ought to do (2:37). In Antioch of Pisidia, the ruler of the synagogue used them when asking Paul and those with him if they had anything to say (13:15). James used them when addressing the conference in Antioch concerning the Gentiles (15:13).
Some have imagined that Peter was actually speaking only to the men, excluding the women. The use of this expression does not require such a narrow interpretation. Peter surely did not address only the men on the day of Pentecost (Acts 2:29). When Paul addressed the synagogue in Antioch using this expression, he added that he was speaking to “children of the stock of Abraham” (Acts 13:26). Paul referred to all believers as “brethren” (Rom 8:29; 12:1; 1 Thess 5:26). John referred to the love of saints as the love of “brethren” (1 John 3:14,16).
There is a spiritual rationale behind the use of “brethren.” joined to with Jesus than of those who wear His name. Therefore Jesus is called “the firstborn among many brethren” (Rom 8:11), and is said to not be shamed “to call them brethren” (Heb 2:11). He is said to refer to believers as “My brethren” (Heb 2:12). His incarnation is described as Him being “made like unto His brethren” (Heb 2:17). All saints are addressed as “holy brethren” (Heb 3:1). However, strictly speaking, they are “brethren” among themselves openly because of their identity with the Lord Jesus Christ.
The expression “men and brethren” is to be understood as a way of saying “everyone,” or “all of you.” There is no sound reasoning that can support the notion that “men and brethren” excluded the women here, but included them in Acts 2:29). Specially, the word “brethren” included both men and women, perceiving them as they are, in truth, related to the Lord Jesus – and in Him, there is “neither male more female” (Gal 3:28). I cannot conceive of spending time joined in one accord with the saints, only to rise and address an assembly choosing to speak only to the men. Those who think in such a manner have surely not spent much time in the presence of the Lord. The marvelous effects of His glory dissolves human distinctions. It does not solidify them.
THIS SCRIPTURE MUST BE FULFILLED
“ . . . this scripture must needs have been fulfilled . . .” Other versions read, “had to be fulfilled,” NKJV “the Scripture should be fulfilled, ASV “the word of God had to be put into effect,” BBE “it was necessary that the scripture should have been fulfilled,” DARBY “the passage of scripture had to be fulfilled,” NJB “it behoved this Writing that it be fulfilled,” YLT “it was necessary for the Scriptures to come true,” LIVING and “the Scripture . . . was bound to come true.” PHILLIPS
While pouring out prayers and supplications to God, the thoughts of Peter have included a contemplation of the Word of God. A particular text has come into his mind, and he has considered it while consciously in the presence of the Almighty. He is not thinking as an academic student, but as a disciple of Christ. His primary interest is not the obtainment of information, but the fulfilling of the Word of God.
Peter does not assume that the Word of God will be fulfilled independently of their involvement. He knows that is not the way the Lord works. Even though, strictly speaking, the New Covenant had not yet been formally introduced, Peter and the rest of the disciples had already been introduced to its nature. Jesus had spent over three years preaching “the Kingdom of God” among them, and forty days delivering concentrated teaching on the matter.
Jesus taught a Kingdom that was to be sought – “But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and His righteousness” (Mat 6:33). Once seen, Jesus said there were even men who “have made themselves eunuchs for the kingdom of heaven's sake” (Matt 19:12). Others were described as leaving “house, or parents, or brethren, or wife, or children, for the kingdom of God's sake” (Luke 18:29). Perceiving that this was a kingdom of involvement, men would “press” into it (Lk 16:16), and “seize it by force [as a precious prize—a share in the heavenly kingdom is sought with most ardent zeal and intense exertion]” (Matt 11:12, AMPLIFIED That is precisely what we are seeing in this text – men seizing the Kingdom, taking hold of it as something to be sought with great zeal. There is no other way to account for Peter’s opening words: “The Scriptures must needs be fulfilled!”
Peter is not speaking of something that has already been fully accomplished. He is rather referring to something that remains to be done. His great heart having been sensitized by the presence of the Lord, he perceives that this is something in which the people in that very room must involve themselves. There is no doubt in my mind but that he recalled that dreadful night in the garden, when Jesus was arrested, and Peter himself drew his sword and cut off the right ear of Malchus, servant of the high priest. It was at that time that Jesus articulated the manner of the kingdom: “Put up again thy sword into his place: for all they that take the sword shall perish with the sword. Thinkest thou that I cannot now pray to my Father, and he shall presently give me more than twelve legions of angels? But how then shall the scriptures be fulfilled, that thus it must be?” (Mat 26:54). Jesus knew that at that time He was in the center of God’s determined will. The Scriptures were going to be fulfilled, and nothing must interfere with that happening.
Peter now stands in a similar position. They are the threshold of receiving “power from on high,” but something remains to be done. There is a Scripture – a prophecy – pertaining to the very situation in which they find themselves, that “must be fulfilled” – a Divine utterance of purpose that God has placed within their reach. They have been cultured for this occasion and all that follows it. This is something that must be done before they are “endued with power from on high.”
Perhaps Peter recalled that when the virgin Mary was visited by Gabriel and given the announcement of being chosen to bear the Son of God: “Now all this was done, that it might be fulfilled which was spoken of the Lord by the prophet” (Matt 1:22). When Jesus sent His disciples to get a “colt” on which He could ride triumphantly into Jerusalem, it was “that it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the prophet” (Matt 21:4). When He was arrested in the garden, He told those who came to take Him that they could never arrest Him during His ministry. Now, however, they were able to do so. Matthew then adds, “But all this was done, that the scriptures of the prophets might be fulfilled” (Matt 26:56).
Peter knew that if they did not fulfill the Scriptures, they would be excluded from the things now determined to be done, and someone else would do them. He was, in a sense, speaking like Mordecai did to Esther. Taking her life in her hands, Esther was to go before the king and seek the deliverance of her people from the ruthless designs of Haman. “For if thou altogether holdest thy peace at this time, then shall there enlargement and deliverance arise to the Jews from another place; but thou and thy father's house shall be destroyed: and who knoweth whether thou art come to the kingdom for such a time as this?” (Esther 4:14).
Through the Spirit Peter knew they had come to the Kingdom for such a time as this – a time when the Scripture was to be fulfilled. He will therefore lead the people into that holy involvement.
An Application
Here is an area in which there is a near-total lack of consciousness in the modern church. Christianity has been so inundated with “the flesh” that scarcely a soul can think in this manner. To begin with, there is not an adequate grasp of the text of Scripture, which is essential to thinking of the necessity of it being fulfilled. Allow me to briefly develop this thought, for I am persuaded it is a critical one.
➪ When professing members of the church are not acquainted with the Lord’s Person and ways, how will the Scripture be fulfilled? “for they shall all know Me” (Jer 31:34).
➪ When professed believers are not joyfully obtaining what the Lord has provided in Christ, how will the Scripture be fulfilled? “Therefore with joy shall ye draw water out of the wells of salvation” (Isa 12:3).
➪ When “Christians” and disobedient, recalcitrant, and wayward in their manners, how will the Scripture be fulfilled? “And I will put My Spirit within you, and cause you to walk in My statutes, and ye shall keep my judgments, and do them” (Ezek 36:27).
➪ If those who say they are Christ’s yield to the flesh, and do not subdue it, how will the Scripture be fulfilled? “And they that are Christ's have crucified the flesh with the affections and lusts” (Gal 5:24).
➪ When church members do not understand the things of God, and are not able to speak of them, how will the Scripture be fulfilled? “The heart also of the rash shall understand knowledge, and the tongue of the stammerers shall be ready to speak plainly” (Isa 32:4).
➪ If those who say they are following Christ do not recognize Him or follow wherever He leads, how will the Scripture be fulfilled? “My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me” (John 10:27).
➪ If a professing “Christian” is easily led astray, and is prone to follow those with a strange message, how will the Scripture be fulfilled? “And when He putteth forth His own sheep, He goeth before them, and the sheep follow Him: for they know His voice. And a stranger will they not follow, but will flee from him: for they know not the voice of strangers” (John 10:4-5).
While we are not involved in the specific kind of work Peter will mention, we are in the same Kingdom. We are to have the same interest in the Scriptures being fulfilled. If there is a text that is within our reach, we must extend ourselves to fulfill it. That is the kind of reasoning Paul put forth to the Corinthians. “Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? and what communion hath light with darkness? And what concord hath Christ with Belial? or what part hath he that believeth with an infidel? And what agreement hath the temple of God with idols? for ye are the temple of the living God; as God hath said, I will dwell in them, and walk in them; and I will be their God, and they shall be my people. Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you, And will be a Father unto you, and ye shall be my sons and daughters, saith the Lord Almighty” (2 Cor 6:14-18).
May you personally have a renewed and sustained interest in seeing the Scriptures fulfilled through your manner of life, direction of thought, and involvement in the will of the Lord.
WHICH THE HOLY SPIRIT SPAKE
“ . . . which the Holy Ghost by the mouth of David spake . . .” Other versions read, “which the Holy Spirit spoke long ago through the mouth of David,” NASB “which the Holy Spirit foretold by the mouth of David,” NIV “in which the Holy Spirit, speaking through David,” NJB “The Holy Spirit spoke ahead of time through David’s lips,” IE “which the Holy Spirit uttered by the lips of David,” WEYMOUTH and “the Holy Spirit spoke long ago through the voice of David.” ISV
The manner in which Peter refers to Scripture is most arresting. Scripture is writing – which is what the word “Scripture” means. It is the “Scripture,” or writing, that Peter affirms must be fulfilled. There are two things to note here.
➪ First, the words to which Peter refers are said to have been spoken by the Holy Spirit. It is His influence that makes writing “Scripture.” That is why Paul said, “All Scripture is given by inspiration of God” (2 Tim 3:16). The inspiration factor is the Holy Spirit Himself. This is why Peter said of the prophets, “for prophecy never came by the will of man, but holy men of God spoke as they were moved by the Holy Spirit” (2 Pet 1:21). Before men take it upon themselves to tamper with Scripture, let them first consider that these are words spoken by the Holy Spirit.
➪ Second, the Holy Spirit spoke through a man – a holy man: “by the mouth of David.” Well, technically, it was the pen of David – it was something he wrote. Later Peter will say, “It is written in the book of Psalms” (1:20). However, from heaven’s point of view, what a person writes is no different than what he says with his mouth. It is considered an expression that comes from his mouth.
In view of these pivotal considerations, what can be said of those who cast doubt upon the Scriptures, telling us it contains flaws, omissions, or additions? What is the possible source of such allegations? Will the God of heaven, who speaks so firmly about our reliance upon His word, move men to cast the shroud of doubt upon it? Will He seek to assist us by such words, after telling us we “live by every word of God” (Lk 4:4) – a word that applied to Scripture (Deut 8:3)? And, if His Spirit has not moved men to speak in such a critical manner about Scripture, then what is the source of such words?
How They Thought
There is a certain manner of thought revealed here. Peter, speaking for the gathering, will think in terms of Scripture. He will not reason after the manner of men. He will be guided in his thinking by what has been written in Scripture. In him a word of Solomon was fulfilled: “The preacher sought to find out acceptable words: and that which was written was upright, even words of truth” (Eccl 12:10).
WHICH WAS GUIDE
“ . . . before concerning Judas, which was guide to them that took Jesus.” Other versions read, “concerning Judas, who became a guide to those who arrested Jesus,” NKJV “concerning Judas, who served as a guide for those who arrested Jesus,” NASB “who was the leader of them that apprehended Jesus,” DOUAY “concerning Judas, who guided the Temple police to arrest Jesus,” NLT and “concerning Judas, who betrayed Jesus by guiding the mob to Him.” LIVING
You will not find the name “Judas” in the text of which Peter speaks. The texts to which the apostle alludes are as follows”
➪ “Yea, mine own familiar friend, in whom I trusted, which did eat of my bread, hath lifted up his heel against me” (Psa 41:9). Jesus confirmed this referred to Judas: “I speak not of you all: I know whom I have chosen: but that the scripture may be fulfilled, He that eateth bread with Me hath lifted up his heel against me” (John 13:18).
➪ “For it was not an enemy that reproached Me; then I could have borne it: neither was it he that hated Me that did magnify himself against Me; then I would have hid Myself from him: But it was thou, a man mine equal, my guide, and mine acquaintance. We took sweet counsel together, and walked unto the house of God in company” (Psa 55:12-14).
All through the ministry of Jesus, none of the disciples suspected that Judas was anything but an apostle – even though Jesus knew from the beginning that he was “a devil” (John 6:70). He was the treasurer of Jesus and the twelve, described as “a thief; as keeper of the money bag,” and “used to help himself to what was I it” NIV (John 12:6). Yet, the disciples had witnessed the arrest of Jesus, and saw Judas leading them and betraying Jesus with a kiss (Luke 22:47-48). Now, in the midst of extended prayer and supplication all of this becomes clear in Peter’s mind. He, through the Spirit, correlates those events, and the present circumstances with Scripture.
There are a number of things people seek to understand – and are willing to extend themselves to appropriate the desired understanding. They include such things as “Who am I?” “Why I am here?” “What is my duty in life?” “What is the secret to success?” “How can I be a better person?” – and so forth. None of these are unlawful, but none of them are the preeminent thing to be known either. Far better to seek to understand the Scripture (Luke 24:45; John 20:9), or know the times (1 Chron 12:32; Matt 16:3), or comprehend the good and acceptable and perfect will of God (Rom 12:2; Col 1:9). It is within the framework of that kind of understanding that all of the lesser questions can be seen properly – first their validity, then what can be known about them.
Peter states that Jesus “was guide to them that took Jesus.” That is, he is the one who clarified precisely who Jesus was. Thus Judas is repeatedly referred to as “Judas . . . who also betrayed Him” (Matt 10:4; 26:25; 27:3; Mk 3:19; John 18:2,5).
Judas was aggressive in this matter of betraying Jesus – while he was yet “numbered” with the apostles. Immediately after Judas had complained about the woman who poured precious ointment upon Jesus (Matt 26:8-9; John 12:4-5), it is written that he “went unto the chief priests, and said unto them, What will ye give me, and I will deliver Him unto you? And they covenanted with him for thirty pieces of silver. And from that time he sought opportunity to betray Him” (Mat 26:14-16). Matthew also records the manner in which Judas agreed to betray Jesus – what Peter here refers to as being “guide to them that took Jesus.” “Now he that betrayed Him gave them a sign, saying, Whomsoever I shall kiss, that same is He: hold Him fast” (Mat 26:48). Thus is described this act of treachery!
JUDAS WAS NUMBERED WITH THEM
“ 17 For he was numbered with us, and had obtained part of this ministry.”
From the standpoint of being a person, Judas is one of the great blotches on human history. For the informed, he is the epitome of contradiction, and the personification of human iniquity. Now, Peter has been illuminated concerning this former companion, and speaks with understanding concerning him.
NUMBERED WITH US
“For he was numbered with us, . . .” Other versions read, “he was one of our number,” NASB “he was counted among us,” NIV “was one of us,” NLT and “was reckoned as one of our number.” WEYMOUTH
Judas was not like one of the multitude that simply followed Jesus Matt 4:25; 8:1; 12:15; 19:2; 20:29; 21:9; John 6:2). He was one of Christ’s disciples – one of the chosen twelve. It is written, “And when it was day, He called unto him His disciples: and of them He chose twelve, whom also He named apostles . . . and Judas Iscariot, which also was the traitor” (Luke 6:13-16).
The “us” of this verse is the twelve apostles, and therefore Peter will also refer to “this ministry.” Because Judas was “numbered with” them, he is included in all of the listings of the apostles representing “the twelve” before Jesus was betrayed (Matt 10:2-4; Mk 3:16-19; Lk 6:14-16). He is also referred to as “one of the twelve” (Matt 26:14,47; Mk 14:10,43; Lk 22:3,47). He is also referred to as “one of His disciples, Judas Iscariot” (John 12:4).
Thus Judas was a real apostle, filling a real office – chosen by Christ Himself. That is why he was “numbered” with the twelve. This is an honor that no man took upon himself.
OBTAINED PART OF THIS MINISTRY
“ . . . and had obtained part of this ministry.” Other versions read, “shared in this ministry,” NASB “received his portion of this ministry,” NIV “was allotted his share of this ministry,” NRSV “had his part in our work,” BBE “received a part of this service,” DARBY “was chosen to share in this ministry,” ISV and “and received [by Divine allotment] his portion of this ministry.” AMPLIFIED
Not only was Judas chosen by Jesus, he was given a portion of the ministry that was assigned to them. When he sent out the twelve, empowering them to do all manner of miraculous works, Judas was among them. It is written, “And when he had called unto him his twelve disciples, he gave them power against unclean spirits, to cast them out, and to heal all manner of sickness and all manner of disease. Now the names of the twelve apostles are these . . . and Judas Iscariot which betrayed Him” (Mat 10:2-4). Mark adds that sent them (including Judas) forth “to preach, and to have power to heal sicknesses, and to cast our devils” (Mk 3:13-19). Luke says, “Then He called His twelve disciples together, and gave them power and authority over all devils, and to cure diseases. And He sent them to preach the kingdom of God, and to heal the sick” (Luke 9:1-2).
Thus, Judas could be described as one who preached the kingdom of God, healed the sick, and cast out demons. He truly “obtained part of this ministry.” In addition, he was the treasurer of the band – Jesus and the twelve. He “had the bag” – the money bag – having charge of “what was put therein” (John 12:6), and what dispensed from it (John 13:29).
All through Christ’s earthly tenure, none of the disciples suspected that Judas had any evil intent toward Jesus. On the very night Judas committed his act of infamy, Jesus had revealed that one of His disciples would betray Him (Matt 26:21). When Judas asked if it was him, Jesus responded “Yes, it is you” NIV (Matt 26:25). When Peter requested John to ask Jesus who the betrayer was, Jesus said, “He it is, to whom I shall give a sop, when I have dipped it. And when He had dipped the sop, He gave it to Judas Iscariot, the son of Simon” (John 13:26). Upon doing this, “Satan entered into” Judas, and Jesus said to him, “That thou doest, do quickly.” It is written of that event, “Now no man at the table knew for what intent He spake this unto him. For some of them thought, because Judas had the bag, that Jesus had said unto him, Buy those things that we have need of against the feast; or, that he should give something to the poor” (John 13:29).
Judas was, then, a legitimate apostle, and that legitimacy was not questioned by any of the other apostles. This man stands as a stirring rebuke to anyone who declares that men cannot fall away – or that someone once accepted can never be rejected. His office was authorized, and his occupancy of the same was also initiated and sanctioned by Deity. All of this was so, even though Jesus knew from the very beginning that Judas as a “devil.” Early in His ministry, when He fed the five thousand, He said “Have not I chosen you twelve, and one of you is a devil?” (John 6:70). The word “devil” here is not the one used for “demon” in the King James Version (– daimon). Here the word is dia,bolo,j (dee-ab-ol-os), normally applying to Satan himself – “the devil” (ex, Matt 4:1,5,8,11; 13:39, etc). This appellation is applied to Satan thirty-nine times, and here to Judas Iscariot. That is, Judas was like an incarnation of Satan, and is therefore referred to as “the son of perdition” (John 17:12).
Peter has seen that David spoke of Judas when he wrote of a “familiar” betraying the holy one – one of His own number: “Yea, mine own familiar friend, in whom I trusted, which did eat of my bread, hath lifted up his heel against me” (Psa 41:9). Again he wrote of Judas, “For it was not an enemy that reproached me; then I could have borne it: neither was it he that hated me that did magnify himself against me; then I would have hid myself from him: but it was thou, a man mine equal, my guide, and mine acquaintance. We took sweet counsel together, and walked unto the house of God in company” (Psa 55:12-14). Prior to this, the disciples did not know this of Judas, but Jesus know throughout His ministry that this was the case. Twice it is said of the Savior that he “knew who should betray Him” (John 6:64; 13:11).
Who but God could have arranged things in this manner, and carried them out with such precision? A valid position was filled by a “devil,” and thus Jesus would be betrayed by one of His own chosen disciples. This would precisely fulfill a prophecy that was given nearly eight hundred years earlier – and the Savior would be aware of the whole matter throughout His prodigious ministry! “O the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God! how unsearchable are his judgments, and his ways past finding out!” (Rom 11:33).
Also, consider that Peter would “deny” Jesus on the night of His arrest (Matt 26:34), but he would not betray Him, nor would any other apostle! When He was arrested in the garden, all of the other apostles “fled.” As it is written, “Then all of the disciples forsook Him and fled” (Matt 26:56). But, it was only Judas who betrayed Him – which is certainly enough! Being with Jesus did not have a lasting impact upon Judas, if, indeed, it had any favorable impact at all. He was, after all, the “son of perdition”, and “a devil,” walking among those God would use to found and nurture the church.
A REVIEW OF JUDAS’ END
“ 18 Now this man purchased a field with the reward of iniquity; and falling headlong, he burst asunder in the midst, and all his bowels gushed out. 19 And it was known unto all the dwellers at Jerusalem; insomuch as that field is called in their proper tongue, Aceldama, that is to say, The field of blood.”
With his mind illuminated, and now understanding the whole matter of Judas, Peter begins an analysis of what happened. This is heaven’s view of the matter, and that view has been vouchsafed to Peter. This was done while the disciples had been continuing in prayer and supplication (1:14), and were also continually “in the temple, praising and blessing God” (Lk 24:53).
THIS MAN PURCHASED A FIELD
“Now this man purchased a field . . . ”Other versions read, “Judas bought a field,” NASB “this man acquired a field,” NIV “this man obtained a field,” ASV “got for himself a field,” BBE “This man then indeed got a field,” DARBY “he indeed hath possessed a field,” DOUAY “bought a parcel of land,” NAB “the same hath now purchased a field,” PNT and “his dishonest money was used to buy a field for his body.” IE
As men would think, Judas did not buy the field. Having betrayed the Savior for “thirty pieces of silver,” it is written that Judas “repented himself, and brought again the thirty pieces of silver to the chief priests and elders, Saying, I have sinned in that I have betrayed the innocent blood. And they said, What is that to us? see thou to that. And he cast down the pieces of silver in the temple, and departed, and went and hanged himself” (Matt 27:3-5). The chief priests, who thought nothing of having Jesus crucified, were very particular the treasury. It is written, “And the chief priests took the silver pieces, and said, It is not lawful for to put them into the treasury, because it is the price of blood. and they took counsel, and bought with them the potter's field, to bury strangers in” (Matt 27:7).
Yet, the money that they used never had lost its association with Judas – even though Judas had made a valiant attempt to disconnect it from himself. Here is an example of what it means to be unforgiven. The sin committed maintains its association with the one who committed it. Only God can break that association, but Judas did not qualify for forgiveness. His repentance was nothing more than “the sorrow of the world” that “worketh death” (2 Cor 7:10).
The “potter’s field” was a place where anonymous people were buried – “strangers” who were unknown, and perhaps died while they were passing through.
Now this parcel of land is associated with Judas – a sort of memorial to his wicked deed.
Some might reason that since this was all determined ahead of time (for Jesus was “the Lamb slain from the foundation of the world” – ), that Judas was nothing more than a pawn in the hands of the Lord. But such reasoning is foolish, for sin is never excused in such a flippant manner. In fact, Jesus spoke to this very issue. He referred to Divine determination, and the betrayal through which it would be carried out. “The Son of man goeth as it is written of him: but woe unto that man by whom the Son of man is betrayed! it had been good for that man if he had not been born” (Matt 26:24). Luke writes, “And truly the Son of man goeth, as it was determined: but woe unto that man by whom He is betrayed!” (Luke 22:22).
Sovereignty and Divine choice can never be cited as justification for iniquity. Nor, indeed, can the fact that Satan used a person (for Satan “entered into” Judas, John 13:27) provide an acceptable rationalization for committing sin: i.e., “the devil made me do it.”
THE REWARD OF INIQUITY
“ . . . with the reward of iniquity . . . ”Other versions read, “wages of iniquity,” NKJV “reward he got for his wickedness,” NASB “with the price of his wickedness,” NIV “the reward of his evil-doing,” BBE “the wages of sin,” MRD “the money he received for his treachery,” NLT “the reward of unrighteousness,” YLT “the money he got for his crime,” ISV “[money paid him as a] reward for his treachery and wickedness,” AMPLIFIED and “the proceeds of his infamy.” PHILLIPS
Among other things, this provides us with the heavenly view of money gained by unlawful means. It is tainted, and cannot be accepted by God. Under the Law it was written, “Thou shalt not bring the hire of a whore, or the price of a dog, into the house of the LORD thy God for any vow: for even both these are abomination unto the LORD thy God” (Deut 23:18). “Dog” is a term applied to a “male prostitute,” or sodomite. NIV The fact that “the Lord your God detests them both” NIV confirms that the Law was not speaking of mere animals. The source of money makes a difference! In this case, this was money paid for sinning, for doing iniquity, for betraying the Son of God!
Matthew refers to this passage in his account of Judas returning the money to the chief priests. “Then was fulfilled that which was spoken by Jeremy the prophet, saying, And they took the thirty pieces of silver, the price of him that was valued, whom they of the children of Israel did value; and gave them for the potter's field, as the Lord appointed me” (Matt 27:9-10).
A Difficulty With Matthew’s Text
The obvious difficulty with the text is that the words quoted by Matthew are not found in Jeremiah, but are actually found in Zechariah. Zechariah prophesied of this very event – the betrayal of Jesus for thirty pieces of silver. “And I said unto them, If ye think good, give me my price; and if not, forbear. So they weighed for my price thirty pieces of silver. And the LORD said unto me, Cast it unto the potter: a goodly price that I was prized at of them. And I took the thirty pieces of silver, and cast them to the potter in the house of the LORD” (Zech 11:12-13).
There are a number of explanations that have been put forward for this circumstance. From an academic standpoint, none of them are satisfactory. Yet, from the standpoint of spiritual reasoning, they confirm that we do not need to have undue concern about the seeming contradiction. It is Divine intention that must be seen.
➪ It is affirmed that the custom of the rabbis was to consider Jeremiah the chief of the minor prophets. Therefore, his name was ascribed to the latter prophetic writings (Jeremiah through Malachi). In this case, “Jeremiah” would refer to a section of the Bible rather than to a single book. This would be similar, but not identical, to referring to the first five books of the Bible as “Moses” (Matt 8:4; 19:7; John 5:46; 7:19; Acts 3:22; Mk 10:4-7).
➪ Some say that Matthew referred to the spirit of several texts written in Jeremiah that refer to the “potter,” buying a field with silver, and the evidence of the purchase (Jer 18:2; 19:1-2; 32:8-14). Matthew appears to use this kind of generalization in Matthew 2:23: “And He came and dwelt in a city called Nazareth: that it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the prophets, He shall be called a Nazarene.” Mark does the same thing in giving a sort summation of the words of Malachi (Mark 1:2-3).I am personally inclined to this view.
➪ Still others say this was a mistake made by Matthew, where he had a sort of lapse of memory.
➪ There are also those who say that the word “Jeremiah” was inserted by some scribe some time after the original writing of Matthew.
There is no need to dwell upon this matter. It is enough to observe that there is no thoroughly satisfactory academic solution. Then again, Scripture is really not written from a pedantic point of view, and we should not seek solutions in that arena.
In the text before us, Peter is providing a kind of reasoning that strictly conforms to Divine purpose, gleans from both the spirit and text of Scripture, and mingles it all with Divine intent. That is quite often the manner in which holy men handled the Word of God – and it was all done by inspiration (2 Tim 3:16; 2 Pet 1:21).
It All Came Together
All of this has come together in the mind of Peter, and therefore he is speaking with insight and remarkable precision.
FALLING HEADLONG
“ . . . and falling headlong, he burst asunder in the midst, and all his bowels gushed out.” Other versions read, “and falling headlong, he burst open in the middle and all his entrails gushed out,” NKJV “there he fell headlong, his body burst open and all his intestines spilled out,” NASB “and falling headlong, he burst open in the middle and all his bowels gushed out,” NAS and “he fell there with his face downward, and, his body bursting open, he became disemboweled.” WEYMOUTH
This is a gruesome sight, indeed, and thus it should be, for it is associated with the betray of the Son of God by one of His own disciples. But it not nearly as gruesome as the time when the “counsels of the heart” will be laid bare before an assembled universe (1 Cor 4:5).
When David prophesied of the one who would betray Jesus, the “guide” and His own “acquaintance,” he added, “Let death seize upon them, and let them go down quick into hell: for wickedness is in their dwellings, and among them” (Psa 55:12-15). That is, indeed, what took place in Judas.
The Gospel record simply tells us that Judas “went and hanged himself” (Matt 27:5). That is the sole Gospel record concerning the death of Judas. Now Peter provides some additional information. The words “falling headlong” mean that he fell head-down, landing on his face. Although the details are not provided, there have been conjectures as to how this happened. Some see this as meaning Judas tied a rope around his neck and jumped from some high place. When the weight of his body hit the rope, it broke, with Judas falling head-down to the bottom. Others feel that Judas must have hung their for a while, and finally the body fell to the ground below. However one chooses to view it, the account is intended to awaken us to the seriousness of iniquity, and the fact that, unless forgiven, it will be visited upon the person.
A Most Vivid Picture
This language provides a most vivid picture of the time when all of man’s inward thoughts, inclinations, and imaginations will be made known. Every person will, so to speak, “burst asunder,” and what has been hidden from mortal view will be exposed to an assembled universe. The ministry of Jesus introduced us to this reality. It is said of the Savior, “He knew what was in man” (John 2:25); “And Jesus knowing their thoughts, said” (Matt 9:4; Lk 11:17); “Jesus perceived in His spirit that they so reasoned within themselves” (Mk 2:8); and “Jesus perceived their thoughts” (Lk 5:22).
The day of judgment is also described as a time when secret thoughts and intents will be shouted from the housetop, and human intentions will be made known.
➪ “Rejoice, O young man, in thy youth; and let thy heart cheer thee in the days of thy youth, and walk in the ways of thine heart, and in the sight of thine eyes: but know thou, that for all these things God will bring thee into judgment” (Eccl 11:9).
➪ “For God shall bring every work into judgment, with every secret thing, whether it be good, or whether it be evil” (Eccl 12:14).
➪ “For there is nothing covered, that shall not be revealed; neither hid, that shall not be known” (Luke 12:2).
➪ “In the day when God shall judge the secrets of men by Jesus Christ according to my gospel” (Rom 2:16).
➪ “Therefore judge nothing before the time, until the Lord come, who both will bring to light the hidden things of darkness, and will make manifest the counsels of the hearts: and then shall every man have praise of God” (1 Cor 4:5).
Thus, just as surely as Judas’ body broke in two, “and all his bowels gushed out,” so the counsels and imaginations of every heart will be fully exposed and known before God and every created personality. To be sure, this is an arresting consideration, just as surely as the account of Judas falling headlong calls us to alertness and sobriety.
EVERYONE KNEW!
“ 19 And it was known unto all the dwellers at Jerusalem . . . ” Other versions read, “Everyone in Jerusalem heard about this,” NASB “And it became known to all living in Jerusalem,” NIV “This became known to the residents of Jerusalem,” NRSV “And this came to the knowledge of all those who were living in Jerusalem,” BBE “The news of his death spread rapidly among all the people of Jerusalem,” NLT “all the people who lived in Jerusalem learned about this,” IE “This fact became widely known to the people of Jerusalem,” WEYMOUTH and “and all the residents of Jerusalem became acquainted with the facts.” AMPLIFIED
The report of Judas’ death was associated with the deed he committed, and, in the minds of the people, there was no doubt a correlation of his end with his works. Here is a living example of this Scriptural saying: “Some men's sins are open beforehand, going before to judgment; and some men they follow after” (1 Tim 5:24). That is, the wicked works of some people are made known before the day of judgment, so that there is no question about what they are. In Judas’ case, he had secretly arranged to betray Jesus, secretly received money for the deed, and secretly betrayed Jesus at night in a removed garden. But his deed was no longer secret, nor was the dreadful end of his life.
THE FIELD OF BLOOD
“ . . . insomuch as that field is called in their proper tongue, Aceldama, that is to say, The field of blood.” Other versions read, “the blood field,” PNT and “Blood land.” IE
The field was named “The Field of Blood” because it was purchased with blood-money – the price of Christ’s blood. This is doubtless also associated with Judas’ confession when he threw down the pieces of silver “in the Temple” – “I have sinned in that I have betrayed the innocent blood” (Matt 27:4). His own blood was also found in this field, the result of his wicked deed of suicide, or self-murder. The field and the name of it, were like Judas’ tombstone – an epitaph to his wicked deed, for which he is suffering at this very hour.
Historically it is written, “This field, as it is reported by some, was by the appointment of the Empress Helena compassed about with four walls, in the manner of a tower, upon the top of which are seven distinct doors, like windows, by which the dead bodies of Christians are let down into it; and that it is fifty feet wide, and seventy two long: it stands not far from the valley of Himom, and is upon the south side of Mount Zion, where, as Jerome says it was showed in his time.” JOHN GILL
IT IS WRITTEN
“ 20 For it is written in the book of Psalms, Let his habitation be desolate, and let no man dwell therein: and his bishopric let another take.”
Peter will anchor the thinking of the brethren in Scripture. That is what will direct their thinking and confirm the necessity of the action that must now take place. Peter will not buttress his remarks by reminding them who he is – an apostle of the Lord Jesus Christ, and a chief one at that. He will not tell them that, by virtue of his placement in the body of Christ, they must listen to him. Whatever truth may be found in such conjectures, they must take their place behind the Word of the Lord.
These days, appeals to the Word of God appear to be rapidly diminishing within the professed church. There are strong solicitations for the devotion and activity of believers that are based upon humanly conceived theological persuasions, statistics, physiological concerns, religious tradition, and logic that is based upon human understanding alone. Any demand for action among the saints of God must be founded upon the Word of God. If Scripture cannot be properly presented as requiring the action, it simply cannot be bound upon the people of God. Any reasoning that is presented must have an obvious association with the Word of the Lord. It seems to me that this is plain enough to require no further justification.
LET HIS HABITATION BE DESOLATE
“For it is written in the book of Psalms, Let his habitation be desolate, and let no man dwell therein . . . ” Other versions read, “For it is written in the book of Psalms: ‘Let his dwelling place be desolate, And let no one live in it,’” NKJV “May his place be deserted; let there be no one to dwell in it,” NASB “Let his homestead be made desolate, and let no man dwell in it,” NIV “Let his house be waste, and let no man be living in it,” BBE “May his place be deserted; let there be no-one to dwell in it,” NIB “Reduce his encampment to ruin and leave his tent unoccupied,” NJB and “Let his place of residence become deserted and gloomy, and let there be no one to live in it.” AMPLIFIED
This word is taken from Psalm 69:25. and 109:8. “Let their habitation be desolate; and let none dwell in their tents” (Psa 69:25). In this particular Psalm, David was speaking about His own enemies: “Draw nigh unto my soul, and redeem it: deliver me because of mine enemies” (Psa 69:18). These enemies had caused great grief to David, for he says they caused him “reproach,” “shame,” and “dishonor” (verse 19). They had also caused reproach to break his heart. As a consequence, he was full of heaviness, and looked for someone who would take pity on him, someone who comfort him, only to find that he could find “none” (verse 20). His enemies increased his misery, giving him “gall” for his meat (or food), and “vinegar” to drink (verse 21).
Therefore David prays against his enemies – an imprecatory prayer, invoking evil upon them.
➪ Let their table become a snare to them (22a).
➪ Let what could have been for their welfare become a trap to them (22b).
➪ Let their eyes be darkened so they cannot see (23a).
➪ Make their loins shake continually (23b).
➪ Let God’s indignation be poured out upon them (24a).
➪ Let God’s wrathful anger take hold of them (24b).
➪ “LET THEIR HABITATION BE DESOLATE; AND LET NONE DWELL IN THEIR TENTS” (25).
➪ Let God charge them with iniquity after iniquity (27a).
➪ Let God not allow them to come into His righteousness (27b).
➪ Let them be blotted out of the book of the living , and not be written with the righteous (28).
A further reason is given for such remarkable judgments: “For they persecute him whom thou hast smitten; and they talk to the grief of those whom thou hast wounded” (Psa 69:26).
Now, the Spirit has directed Peter to extract a single phrase from this Psalm, applying it to Judas. He had come against the ultimate Man, and therefore was the ultimate flesh-and-blood persecutor. His table did, in fact, become a snare to him, and he could not stand to hold the money he had received – money that ultimately was used to buy the field where he was dashed in two. What could have been of great welfare to him – the apostleship – became a snare to him – where he conducted himself as an enemy while posing as a friend. His eyes were darkened, so that he could see any way out of his dilemma, and thus hung himself. His loins did shake as he cried out to the chief priests that he had sinned in betraying “the innocent blood.” Indignation was poured out upon him, and God’s wrath took hold of him, as he had a dreadful and shameful end. Iniquity was heaped upon him, as he is now noted for this one despicable deed. There is not a single good deed for which he is noted. His name was also blotted out of the book of life, so that he was no longer associated with the Lord Jesus.
Those who have a strictly contextual approach to Scripture will be unable to see Judas in the sixty-ninth Psalm – but Peter saw him there. Inspired by God, he was able handle, or rightly divide the “word of truth” (2 Tim 2:15). There is a spirit in Scripture as well as words – and Peter saw it. There is a direction to Scripture as well as affirmations – and Peter saw it.
The habitation, or dwelling place, of Judas was left desolate. His name was blotted out, and none of his relatives could resume his role in his name – like Isaac stood in the place of his father Abraham, Jacob stood in the place of his father Isaac, and Solomon stood in the place of his father David. No such benefit was afforded to Judas.
HIS BISHOPRIC
“ . . . and his bishopric let another take.” Other versions read, “Let another take his office,” NKJV “May another take his place of leadership,” NASB “his office let another man take,” NIV “let another take his position of overseer,” NRSV “Let his position be taken by another,” BBE “let another take his charge,” GENEVA “let another take his service,” MRD “let his position be given to someone else,” NLT “his oversight let another take,” YLT “Let his work be given to someone else to do,” LIVING “his work let another take up,” WEYMOUTH and “Let another take his position or overseership.” AMPLIFIED
Again, Peter resorts to the Scripture. Like a scribe that is “instructed concerning the kingdom of heaven,” NKJV he takes out of his “treasure” something that is “old” (Matt 13:52). Peter refers to Psalm 109:8 “Let his days be few; and let another take his office” (Psa 109:8). This is also an imprecatory Psalm in which David prays concerning those who have opened their mouths against him, speaking lies, and doing so “without cause” (2-3). Even though he have loved them, they had become his “adversaries” (4-5). David asks the Lord to do the following.
➪ Set a wicked man over them, and let Satan be at their right hand (6).
➪ Let them be condemned when they are judged (7a).
➪ Let their prayer become sin (7b).
➪ Let his days be few, “AND LET ANOTHER TAKE HIS OFFICE” (8).
➪ Let his children be fatherless, and his wife a widow (9).
➪ Let his children be continual vagabonds, have to beg, and get their bread from desolate places (v 10).
➪ Let the extortioner get all that they have( 11),
➪ Let there be none that will extend mercy to them, or favor their fatherless children (12).
➪ Let their posterity be cut off, and their name blotted out of succeeding generations (13).
➪ Let the iniquity of both their father and mother be remembered (14).
➪ Let the Lord remember them and cut off the memory of them from the earth (15).
Some would see nothing but an inappropriate response of David in this Psalm. Peter saw it as a prophecy concerning Judas, and the placement of another in his apostolic office.
It ought to be noted that all of this did, in fact, happen to Judas. You may recall that Jesus once prayed for Peter (Lk 22:32). He did not for Judas. The Savior prayed for his disciples in the Garden of Gethsemane, and Judas was present with them. Yet he referred to Judas as someone he had “lost” in order that the Scriptures be fulfilled, referring to him as “the son of perdition” (John 17:12).
If you are ever tempted to think that betraying Jesus, or giving the enemy a reason to speak reproachfully of Him, is not serious, remember Judas! If you are ever inclined to conduct your life in a manner that will enable the wicked to smear the name of Jesus, remember Judas!
A Bishopric
A “bishopric” is a position of authority in which a person becomes responsible for some portion of a sovereign’s rule – in this case, one that is in some sense ruling in the behalf of Christ. Lexically the word means, “an overseer, a man charged with the duty of seeing that things to be done by others are done rightly, any curator, guardian, or superintendent,” THAYER “overseer, one who watches over the welfare of others,” FRIBERG “overseer, one who watches over the welfare of others,” LOUW-NIDA “one who watches over, an overseer, guardian.” LIDDELL-SCOTT
As this word applies to those laboring for Christ, the emphasis is not on leadership (as ordinarily conceived), but upon caring for the believers – and there is a vast difference between the two meanings. Leadership, in this case, had to do with directing the flock into green pastures and beside still waters. It is quite true that correction is often required, and even rebuke. However, the purpose for them both is to get the people to a place where they can be built up in Christ Jesus – a place where they can appropriate the things God has prepared for those who love Him (1 Cor 2:9-10).
Judas had occupied such a place – a “bishopric.” He was included among those who were sent out to release the people from dominion of the wicked one, and announce the glad tidings of the Kingdom of God (Matt 10:1-4). In his case, his office took precedence over his person. He fell but his office did not. The work to which Judas had been appointed still had to be done, and therefore the vacated position needed to be filled by “another.”
A Point to be Seen
The precise manner in which Jesus was betrayed, fulfilling the Scripture, would also allow for a foundational office that would continue AFTER the one who originally filled it was removed from it. This was not true of any other Apostolic office. No one replaced James when He was beheaded by Herod early in the history of the church (Acts 12:1-2). Nor, indeed, was a single other vacated “bishopric” filled. The bishoprics” of Peter, Andrew, John, Philip, Bartholomew. Thomas, Matthew, James the son of Alphaeus, Thaddeus, and Simon were never filled after their departure from this world. The same is true of the office of the apostle Paul.
PETER’S REASONING
Our text provides us with an excellent example of spiritual reasoning. With his capacity for thought sanctified by prayer, supplication, praise, expectant waiting, and holy recollections, Peter was able to survey the landscape of thought with discernment. He gleaned from the Scriptures, his own experience with Judas, the facts that were generally known, and His awareness of the purpose of God. These were gathered together in his heart, then passed to his mind, where they were woven together in a tapestry of holy conclusion. He was able to associate all of this with the present time, during which they were waiting for “promise of the Father” according to Christ’s own word. He perceived something that had to be done before the promised Spirit would come, enduing them with power. There is no record of Jesus telling them that this would have to be done. The manner in which this whole incident is reported to us confirms that the disciples had not given thought to the subject previously. Here is an example of the Lord directing His people through processes of sanctified thought, or “spiritual understanding.”
How sorely this kind of reasoning is needed in the church of our day. There is far too little acquaintance with Scripture and the revealed purpose of God, and a blanket of “gross darkness” has been spread over God’s “eternal purpose,” which has been revealed, and is intended to be known by the church (Eph 1:11; 3:9-11,18). The absence of this kind of thinking has opened the door for all manners of sophists to enter into the church and distribute their corrupt reasoning. We are faced with a church that cannot think correctly. That is why so many divisions exist within it. It is why sin is springing up within it in unprecedented measures. It is why men are easily seduced, deceived, and led astray.
The irony of the situation is that this happening in time when “the Sun of righteousness” has risen (Mal 4:2), and the mystery of God’s will has been revealed (Eph 1:9). Things that were formerly “NOT made known to the sons of men,” are “NOW revealed” (Eph 3:5). This is “the day of salvation” in which men can “test and approve what God's will is – His good, pleasing and perfect will” NIV (Rom 12:2). They can even “be filled with the knowledge of his will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding” (Col 1:9). In this day it is inexcusable to have a church – any church – that remains in a state of spiritual ignorance, unable to think and reason in a godly manner. Those who have allowed such a condition to arise, and have even contributed to the condition must be held accountable for their action.
THE QUALIFICATIONS OF AN APOSTLE PLACED BEFORE THEM
“ 21 Wherefore of these men which have companied with us all the time that the Lord Jesus went in and out among us, 22 Beginning from the baptism of John, unto that same day that he was taken up from us, must one be ordained to be a witness with us of his resurrection.”
Peter will not stab in the dark on this matter. He will speak with insight and with confidence. He will not think as he did when he rebuked Jesus for speaking of His death (Matt 16:22-23). He will not blurt out wrong words like he did on the mount of transfiguration (Matt 17:4-5). He will have no questions as he did when he asked Jesus about forgiving those who sinned against him (Matt 18:21-22), or when he inquired what the future held for John the beloved (John 21:21-22). Those occasions all occurred while Peter was being prepared. This event reveals a Peter that is being directed by the Lord. Although it is quite fashionable for men to compare themselves and others to the Peter prior to our text, it is more in keeping with redemption to find men who are like the Peter AFTER Jesus ascended into heaven.
OF THESE MEN
“Wherefore of these men . . .” Other versions read, “Therefore, of these men,” NKJV “Therefore it is necessary to choose one of the men,” NASB “It is therefore necessary that of the men,” NIV “So one of the men,” NRSV “For this reason, of the men,” BBE “It should therefore be, that one of these persons,” MRD “So now we must choose another man to take Judas's place,” NLT and “It behoveth, therefore, of the men.” YLT
Judas’ replacement must come from a certain company of people. It is understood that the people then present were the ones from which the replacement would come. There was no time to run about looking for someone. This was occurring sometime within the ten day period between Jesus’ ascension and the coming day of Pentecost. What needed to be done must be accomplished quickly, and within the framework of sound reasoning and spiritual clarity.
Briefly stated once again, a “bishopric,” or Divinely ordained office, had to be filled. It had been vacated by Judas, and yet remained valid. It had to be filled prior to the coming of the “promise of the Father.” Now, Peter will describe the kind of person that must fill the office.
ALL THE TIME
“ . . . which have companied with us all the time that the Lord Jesus went in and out among us . . . ” Other versions read, “the whole time the Lord Jesus went in and out among us,” NASB “during all the time that the Lord Jesus went in and out among us,” NRSV “all the time in which the Lord Jesus came in and went out among us,” DARBY “all the time that the Lord Iesus was conversant among us,” GENEVA “the whole time that the Lord Jesus was living with us,” NJB “has been with us constantly from our first association with the Lord,” LIVING and “during the whole time the Lord Jesus lived his life with us.” PHILLIPS
The person was not be chosen because of their natural abilities – although they no doubt did have some. Their preeminence among the brethren was not enough. They could not be new to the group of disciples, having only recently become acquainted with Jesus.
The qualification is clear. The replacement had to have been with Jesus continually, as He went in and out among men, “doing good and healing all who were oppressed of the devil” (Acts 10:38). They had to be among those who heard Jesus preach – all of the time He preached. They had to be witnesses of His works. They had to be privy to His questions and answers, His skirmishes with the scribes, Pharisees, lawyers, and sadducees. They had to be with Him in the Temple, in the synagogues, the cities, and even the deserts. The only times during which their presence was not required were those times when Jesus took the twelve aside (ex: Matt 20:17; 26:20; Mk 6:7; 9:35; 10:32), or only allowed the inner circle, Peter, James, and John (Matt 17:1; Mk 5:37), or when he taught only four of them, Peter, Andrew, James, and John (Mk 13:3).
There is a certain penalty to be paid for a lack of spiritual consistency. In this case, those who were not with Jesus throughout the entire time of His ministry – approximately three and a half years – were excluded from consideration. Even during this remarkable day of salvation, there are some people who have not followed Jesus consistently for that length of time.
THE REQUIRED PERIOD
“ 22 Beginning from the baptism of John, unto that same day that he was taken up from us . . . ” Other versions read, “beginning from the baptism of John, unto the day that he was received up from us,” ASV “from the time he was baptized by John until the day he was taken from us into heaven,” NLT “from the time John started to immerse people, until the time when Jesus was carried away from us,” LIVING and “From the baptism of John at the outset until the day when He was taken up from among us.” AMPLIFIED
Specificity is one of the undeniable marks of Divine direction. Peter, being led along by the Spirit of God, does not leave it up to the people to interpret the meaning of “all the time.”
From the Baptism of John
The period that is being defined is “all the time that Jesus went in and out among us” (v 21). This definition of the period of the Lord’s ministry is described in the Gospels. His ministry was launched when He was baptized by John in Jordan (Matt 3:16-17; Mk 1:9-10; Lk 3:20-21), was led up of the Spirit to be tempted by the devil (Matt 4:1-11; Mk 1:12-13; Lk 4:1-13), began going about preaching that men should repent, for “the kingdom of heaven is at hand” (Matt 4:12-25; Mk 1:14-15; Lk 4:14-15), and, following His resurrection showing Himself to the disciples alive, and speaking to them of the kingdom of God (Luke 24:1-51; Acts 1:3). That entire period is referred to in the following ways.
➪ “ . . . all the time that the Lord Jesus went in and out among us” (Acts 1:21).
➪ “And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth” (John 1:14).
➪ “How God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Ghost and with power: who went about doing good, and healing all that were oppressed of the devil; for God was with Him” (Acts 10:38).
➪ “That which was from the beginning, which we have heard, which we have seen with our eyes, which we have looked upon, and our hands have handled, of the Word of life; (For the life was manifested, and we have seen it, and bear witness, and show unto you that eternal life, which was with the Father, and was manifested unto us)” (1 John 1:1-2).
The individual chosen for the vacated bishopric had to have been thoroughly exposed to Jesus – His person, what He taught, and what He did. It was not enough to have only a brief exposure to Him. The person must be acquainted with what prepared men for the Savior – the preaching of repentance. They must be aware of the conflict between Him and His teaching and the world. They must have an idea about His compassion, and the priority of the Kingdom of God, of which Jesus spoke. There must be no doubt about Him being alive, or having ascended into heaven, but they must have been eye witnesses of both events.
There is no place for spiritually uninformed people in the ministry. There is no legitimate office or role within the body of Christ that does not require an exposure to and knowledge of the Son of God. Having spent over fifty years in the ministry I can tell you that, within the professed “ministry” itself, the degree of fundamental ignorance concerning God, His purpose, and His great salvation in Christ Jesus is at an appalling level. Further, the more specialized the ministry, the greater the ignorance appears to be.
ONE MUST BE ORDAINED
“ . . . must one be ordained to be a witness with us of His resurrection.” Other versions read, “one of these must become a witness with us of His resurrection,” NKJV “one will have to be a witness with us of His coming back from death,” BBE “one must be appointed to serve with us as a witness to his resurrection,” NJB “Whoever is chosen will join us as a witness of Jesus' resurrection,” NLT “one of these to become with us a witness of his rising again,” YLT “one should be appointed to become a witness with us to His resurrection,” WEYMOUTH “Must be added to our number as a witness to His resurrection,” WILLIAMS,“one of these men must join with us and become a witness to testify to His resurrection,” AMPLIFIED and “This man must be an eye-witness with us to the resurrection of Jesus.” PHILLIPS
The word “ordained” is an interesting one. It comes from the Greek word gene,sqai (ghin-es-thai), from gi,nomai (ghin-om-ahee). For those with a linguistic interest in the word, it is a verb infinitive aorist middle deponent. Simply put, it speaks of the initiation, or beginning, of something, and not of its duration, completeness, or incompleteness. The word is translated in a variety of ways, each one speaking of a specific beginning, when something or someone started to be.
➪ “Done” (Matt 1:22) – all this was done.
➪ “Made” – made of the seed of David (Rom 1:3) and made unto us wisdom (1 Cor 1:30)
➪ “Fulfilled” (Matt 5:18) – till all be fulfilled.
➪ “Came to pass” (Matt 7:28) – it came to pass.
➪ “Arose” – there arose a great tempest (Matt 8:24).
➪ “Become” – become guilty before God (Rom 3:19), and – become the father of many nations (Rom 4:18).
➪ “Manifest” – every man’s work shall be made manifest (1 Cor 3:13).
What we have here is this: one of the hundred and twenty gathered together is going to become something he never was before – something that will begin at this meeting. A specific responsibility is going to be initiated – something for which the individual was never before responsible, and for which he had no former obligation. It was something required and known by God by God, yet put into motion by men, and sanctioned by God. Here is a wonderful example of being “workers together WITH God” (2 Cor 6:1), and of God working in men “both to will and to do” (Phil 2:13).
THEY APPOINTED TWO
“ 23 And they appointed two, Joseph called Barsabas, who was surnamed Justus, and Matthias.” Other versions read, “And they proposed two,” NKJV “And they put forward two men,” NIV “And they made selection of two,” BBE “And they presented two,” GENEVA “Having nominated two candidates” NJB “So they nominated two men,” NLT “And they set two,” YLT “The assembly nominated two men,” LIVING “They found two men,” IE “And they accordingly proposed (nominated) two men,” AMPLIFIED and “Two men were put forward.” PHILLIPS
There is a wonderful circumstance to be seen here. This was not a call for volunteers, but for those who met the required criteria. The candidates had to have been with the twelve “all the time that the Lord Jesus went in and out among us, beginning from the baptism of John, unto that same day that he was taken up from us” (Acts 1:21-22). This is something that had to be known by those who were assembled together. These were not to be men who had to be brought up to speed on what Jesus “began to do and teach.” They had to have first-hand acquaintance with those things. The people (“they”) knew that Barsabas and Matthias met this criteria, and therefore “appointed” them, putting them forward as fully meeting the qualifications. There was no question about their suitability.
When religion becomes professionalized, as it has in our day, it becomes nearly impossible to distinguish people who have been with Jesus, and are acquainted with His ways. Having spent more time than I care to acknowledge in the presence of specially convened meetings of religious leaders, and conferences supposedly devoted to the cause of Christ, I can tell you that I scarcely have any idea at all concerning the relationship those people have with the Lord Jesus. What they personally know of Him, His ways, His accomplishments, His Word, and His present activity, are generally well kept secrets. The meetings of reference provide no format for the proclamation of such things, but are largely devoted to the promotion of the institutions represented. It is not that everything about these meetings is bad, or that all who attend them are to be suspected of being charlatans. However their real spiritual status is not known. The works that they represent are generally not associated with wisdom and spiritual understanding, and Christ and His accomplishments are not the subject of exposition. In such a setting, the activities of our text would be difficult, if not impossible, to carry out.
Those who labor for the Lord must be noted for their understanding of the Lord and what He has done. As I have indicated, I have personally found there is generally a great deficiency of this kind of understanding in the professed and professional ministry. If you have found otherwise, you have been most fortunate.
Remember, we are being exposed to the manner of the heavenly kingdom. We know from Isaiah’s prophecy that the government of that kingdom was placed upon the shoulders of the Lord Jesus, and that it will prosper under His administration (Isa 9:6-7). We know from Daniel’s prophecy that when Jesus returned to heaven from the completion of His mission on earth, there was given to Him “dominion, and glory, and a kingdom” (Dan 7:14). The Apostolic declaration is that “all things” have been put under Jesus’ feet, and that He has been appointed “to be head over everything for the church” NIV (Eph 1:22).
Now, what we are seeing in the book of Acts is the manner in which He governs His Kingdom – How He works. In this particular text, He works among those who have these characteristics.
➪ They have been followers of Him.
➪ They are united together by their faith, and continue in one accord.
➪ They have taken His word seriously.
➪ They are obedient to Christ.
➪ They place a superior value on His promises.
➪ They are moved by their understanding of the Scriptures.
Having chosen two men who meet the qualifications required to fill the vacated “bishopic,” the work of this holy group is not completed. Only one of these men can be chosen, for only one office is available. Jesus did not tell them how to go about this procedure. They are having to be directed in the crucible of prayer, supplication, the words of an insightful disciple, and holy activity. The people proceed with wisdom and understanding.
CHOICE FOLLOWED BY PRAYER
“ 24 And they prayed, and said, Thou, Lord, which knowest the hearts of all men, show whether of these two thou hast chosen. 25 That he may take part of this ministry and apostleship, from which Judas by transgression fell, that he might go to his own place.”
The people have gone as far as they can. Now the Lord must make His will known to the people. This group has been in the presence of the Lord, and their souls have been tuned to heavenly frequencies. No one from the group dares to suggest which of these two men should take the bishopic from which Judas fell. They know in their hearts that is not a choice they are qualified to make. Therefore, they will lay the matter before the Lord, who alone can manage His own Kingdom.
Care must be taken to discern the manner of this prayer, for it reflects the posture of faith. This is not intended to be an official pattern of prayer. It does, however, reveal how holy people think when they are in the presence of the Lord. It also reveals how the Lord directs those who are submitted to Him.
THE LORD KNOWS THE HEARTS
“And they prayed, and said, Thou, Lord, which knowest the hearts of all men . . . ” Other versions read, “And they prayed and said, "You, O Lord, who know the hearts of all,” NKJV “Then they prayed, "Lord, you know everyone's heart,” NASB “And they made prayers and said, Lord, having knowledge of the hearts of all men, BBE “And when they had prayed, they said: Thou, Lord, knowest what is in the hearts of all,” MRD “Then they all prayed for the right man to be chosen. ‘O Lord,’ they said, ‘you know every heart.’” NLT and “You, Lord, Who know all hearts (etheir thoughts, passions, desires, appetites, purposes, and endeavors).” AMPLIFIED
How often a point is made of God knowing the hearts of men!
➪ “ . . . the LORD seeth not as man seeth; for man looketh on the outward appearance, but the LORD looketh on the heart” (1 Sam 16:7).
➪ “ . . . every man according to his ways, whose heart thou knowest; (for thou, even Thou only, knowest the hearts of all the children of men)” (1 Kgs 8:39).
➪ “ . . . for the LORD searcheth all hearts, and understandeth all the imaginations of the thoughts . . . ” (1 Chron 28:9).
➪ “Shall not God search this out? for He knoweth the secrets of the heart” (Psa 44:21).
➪ “I the LORD search the heart, I try the reins . . . ” (Jer 17:10).
➪ “And God, which knoweth the hearts . . . ” (Acts 15:8).
➪ “ . . . I am he which searcheth the reins and hearts . . .” (Rev 2:23).
This is a sobering reality – the Lord knows the hearts of men – what they really are, how they really think, what they really desire, what they really understand. The outward qualifications for filling this bishopric was that the person had to be with Jesus all the time of His ministry, from the baptism of John until He was taken up into heaven. That, however, did not exhaust the qualifications. The heart of the person had to be pure and acceptable to God. The person could have no ignoble motives. He could not be an undiscerning of disinterested person. There must be a preeminent love for the Lord and “His Christ,” and the Kingdom of God and His righteousness must be sought first. This individual must have a genuine commitment to the Lord, be separated from the world, and be willing to leave all for Jesus. However, these are all matters of the heart, and cannot really be known by the peers of the one to be chosen. Therefore, the disciples make their appeal to the Lord, unto whom all of the heart is laid bare.
Here is something that human organization and systemization cannot discover – “the thoughts and intents of the heart” (Heb 4:13). However, before a person can be used in the work of the Lord, the condition of the heart must be discovered – and that is something God alone can do. Further, lest men oversimplify this matter, our text makes known that this is often done through the instrumentality of holy brethren who make an appeal to God for His direction.
SHOW US
“ . . . show whether of these two thou hast chosen.” Other versions read, “show which of these two You have chosen,” NKJV “Show us which of these two You have chosen,” NASB “make clear which of these two has been marked out by you,” BBE “manifest which thou hast chosen of these two,” MRD “ show us which of these men you have chosen as an apostle to replace Judas the traitor,” LIVING “show clearly which of these two men thou hast chosen,” WILLIAMS “Show us which one of these two men You choose to be an apostle and to do this work,” IE and “indicate to us which one of these two You have chosen.” AMPLIFIED
Here another critical matter is made known: these disciples know who makes the real choices! Years later, Paul will further clarify the matter by writing, “But now hath God set the members every one of them in the body, as it hath pleased Him” (1 Cor 12:18). That is, God and God alone determines their role or function in the body of Christ. In this case, the role is that of an “apostle,” a class that has been set “first” in the body (1 Cor 12:28).
Technically, the choice had already been made. Practically, it had to be revealed, or “shown” to the people. They knew God’s choice was the only acceptable one, and yet the matter has been cast into their lap, and they must make a decision. They have gone as far as they can, and have found two men who, by human observation, meet the qualifications. However, this did not include the matter of the heart, which is known to God alone. Therefore they ask for God to make His choice known to them. This revelation, as we will see, will be made known in a very practical way.
TAKE PART OF THE MINISTRY
“ 25 That he may take part of this ministry and apostleship, . . .” Other versions read, “to take over this apostolic ministry,” NASB “to occupy this ministry and apostleship,” NIV “to take the place in this ministry and apostleship,” NRSV “To take that position as a servant and Apostle,” BBE “to receive the lot of this service and apostleship,” DARBY “That he may take the room of this ministration and Apostleship,” GENEVA “that he should take part in this ministry and legateship,” MRD “to take over this apostolic ministry,” NIB “to take over this ministry and apostolate,” NJB “as an apostle to replace Judas the traitor in this ministry,” NLT “to receive the share of this ministration and apostleship,” YLT and “To take the place in this ministry and receive the position of an apostle.” AMPLIFIED
The degree of specificity is most edifying to consider. Here are minds that are being influenced from heaven. These are people whose affection has been set on things above. They are seeking first the kingdom of God and His righteousness.
These brethren know in their hearts the way in which the Lord works. The history of their people was used to introduce them to the concept. There are positions to be filled – specific areas of responsibility that are of greater significance than the individuals who fill them. Technically, these positions do not change the individual. That is, when they are filled they do not change or sanctify the person. In such a case, a despot could fill them, being made acceptable by virtue of his position. That, however, is not how God works. We know this is the case because of Judas, who fell from his apostolic position, confirming that the position does not sanctify the person.
In the Divine workings, God prepares the position, then prepares the one that is to occupy that position. This is why Jesus chose the original twelve – to prepare them to occupy this lofty office.
Dividing By Lot
By means of the nation of Israel, God acquainted people with dividing an area by “lot.” When Israel came into Canaan, it was not every tribe for themselves, each group picking out the area of the land they preferred. Rather, the promised land was divided into lots, and distributed to each tribe. Before he died, Moses told the people, “Notwithstanding the land shall be divided by lot: according to the names of the tribes of their fathers they shall inherit. According to the lot shall the possession thereof be divided between many and few” (Num 26:56). And again, “ye shall divide the land by lot for an inheritance among the families” (Num 33:54). When they arrived in the promised land, God told Joshua, “divide thou it by lot unto the Israelites for an inheritance, as I have commanded thee” (Josh 13:6). That mandate was carried out and “By lot was their inheritance, as the LORD commanded by the hand of Moses” (Josh 14:2). Joshua then told the people, “Behold, I have divided unto you by lot these nations that remain, to be an inheritance for your tribes, from Jordan, with all the nations that I have cut off, even unto the great sea westward” (Josh 23:4).
The Body of Christ
Similarly, the body of Christ involves various spiritual “lots” – areas of ministry through which the saints are edified and properly prepared for glory, where they will receive their full inheritance. Some of the more prominent “lots” are described in these words: “And He gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers” (Eph 4:11). A more extensive listing of lots include the following: “And God hath set some in the church, first apostles, secondarily prophets, thirdly teachers, after that miracles, then gifts of healings, helps, governments, diversities of tongues” (1 Cor 12:28). Emphasizing their diversity of the “lots”, as well as the way in which they are governed, those at Corinth included, “For to one is given by the Spirit the word of wisdom; to another the word of knowledge by the same Spirit; to another faith by the same Spirit; to another the gifts of healing by the same Spirit; to another the working of miracles; to another prophecy; to another discerning of spirits; to another divers kinds of tongues; to another the interpretation of tongues” (1 Cor 12:8-10).
Paul mentioned the following “lots” to the church at Rome: “Having then gifts differing according to the grace that is given to us, whether prophecy, let us prophesy according to the proportion of faith; or ministry, let us wait on our ministering: or he that teacheth, on teaching; or he that exhorteth, on exhortation: he that giveth, let him do it with simplicity; he that ruleth, with diligence; he that showeth mercy, with cheerfulness” (Rom 12:6-8). Peter gives a general admonition concerning these lots. “As every man hath received the gift, even so minister the same one to another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God. If any man speak, let him speak as the oracles of God; if any man minister, let him do it as of the ability which God giveth: that God in all things may be glorified through Jesus Christ, to whom be praise and dominion for ever and ever. Amen” (1 Pet 4:10-11).
The Point
The point is that the various ministries within the body of Christ are not left up to the discretion of men. God places the members in the body as it has pleased Him (1 Cor 12:28). The gifts themselves are distributed and managed by the Holy Spirit (1 Cor 12:4-11).
The holy conclave that is praying in Jerusalem knew this was the way the Kingdom was administered. They knew who made the choices, and how to go about finding out what they should do. Whether they knew it intuitively or by a special word, I am not sure. I am inclined to think they knew it intuitively. However one may choose to view it, this occasion must be seen as quite different from the approaches used by the contemporary church.
JUDAS FELL BY TRANSGRESSION
“ . . . from which Judas by transgression fell . . .” Other versions read, “which Judas left,” NASB “from which Judas turned aside,” NIV“from which Judas fell away,” ASV “from which Judas by his sin was shut out,” BBE “from which Judas transgressing fell,” DARBY “from which Judas hath gone astray,” GENEVA “from which Judas broke away,” MRD“which Judas abandoned,” NJB “for he has deserted us,” NLT “from which Judas, by transgression, did fall,” YLT and “from which Judas fell away and went astray.” AMPLIFIED
The insight of these brethren BEFORE Pentecost and BEFORE the Spirit came as Jesus promised, is refreshing to consider. Under the leadership of Peter, not only did these brethren know what needed to be done, and how to go about it, they also knew WHY it had to be done.
Judas had filled a legitimate office, and He was chosen by Jesus to do so. Now, will sin have an effect upon his function in that office, and even his eternal destiny? Some, who are unlearned in the ways of the Lord would contend that such a thing is not possible. Wresting the Word of the Lord, they would declare that “the gifts and calling of God are without repentance” (Rom 11:29). How, then, could the chosen one fall, or be removed from the office to which he had been called? However, their thinking is too simplistic, and unbecoming for anyone who has a love for the truth. Too much is revealed for us to think like that. First, Judas was chosen with the fulfilment of the Scripture in mind, as well as to fill a valid slot in the kingdom. Jesus said of him, “While I was with them in the world, I kept them in Thy name: those that Thou gavest Me I have kept, and none of them is lost, but the son of perdition; that the scripture might be fulfilled” (John 17:12).
Who is the person who will have the audacity to say that everyone affiliated with the church, or making a profession of faith, has been called with permanency in mind? What of the angels who “left their own habitation,” and have now been “reserved in everlasting chains under darkness unto the judgment of the great day” (Jude 1:6). These are angels who “sinned,” and thus judgment was passed upon them – even though they occupied a legitimate “habitation.” Peter says of them, “God spared not the angels that sinned, but cast them down to hell, and delivered them into chains of darkness, to be reserved unto judgment” (2 Pet 2:4). Peter further reasons on the matter, affirming that this has very much to do with how we consider our own lives. “The Lord knoweth how to deliver the godly out of temptations, and to reserve the unjust unto the day of judgment to be punished” (2 Pet 2:9).
Judas, like the fallen angels, “left” his habitation – the one into which Jesus Himself had placed him. Instead of following Jesus and remaining with Him, as He was chosen to do (Mk 3:14), he chose to side with Christ’s enemies, and even realize financial gain through the process. He was in Christ’s house, but was used for a base purpose. As it is written, “In a large house there are articles not only of gold and silver, but also of wood and clay; some are for noble purposes and some for ignoble” NIV (2 Tim 2:20). Peter was intended for noble purposes, and Judas for ignoble purposes. Notwithstanding, it was by transgression that he fell. It was the result of his own doing, and not the result of Jesus’ choice.
Sin was Judas’ undoing, and it is the same with every person who indulges iniquity.
THAT HE MIGHT GO TO HIS OWN PLACE
“ . . . that he might go to his own place.” Other versions read, “to go where he belongs,” NASB “to go to his proper place,” NJB “and gone where he belongs,” NLT and “to go [where he belonged] to his own [proper] place.” AMPLIFIED
It appears as though their thoughts became more clear as they prayed. In other words, responses were coming back to them from heaven. No one spoke of Judas in this manner prior to them continuing steadfastly in pray and supplication. Before Pentecost, and before they were “endued with power from on high,” however, they made this assessment of Judas. Now, some years after the event actually occurred, Luke, moved along by the Holy Spirit, records it for our learning, “upon whom the ends of the world are come” (1 Cor 10:11).
Precisely why did Judas “fall by transgression?” The praying brethren provide the ultimate cause: in order “that he might go to his own place!” Among other things, this confirms that our real place, or position, is not in this world! Woe to that person who conducts his life as though this world was the primary one, and his present position was the only one.
The term “his own place” indicates that the bishopic that he temporarily occupied did not really belong to him. The other apostles left this world as “apostles.” Judas did not. Note he did not fall by transgression in order that he might be removed from the apostleship, but in order that he might go “[where he belongs] to his own [proper] place.” AMPLIFIED To say the least, this is an arresting consideration!
Judas was like certain false teachers of whom Peter wrote. He likened them to “brute beasts, made to be taken and destroyed” (2 Pet 2:12). Other versions read, “made to be caught and destroyed,” NKJV “born . . . to be captured and killed,” NASB and “born only to be caught and destroyed.” NIV Like Pharaoh, Judas was “raised up” as one in whom God’s power could be shown (Ex 9:16; Rom 9:17).
Admittedly, this is not a common way of thinking, but the early church was quite capable of handling this kind of thought. They were more God-conscience than the church of our day.
Ultimately, there is a place where everyone “belongs” – a final destiny! There is a place where they will fit in, and for which their present conduct is preparing them. It may be difficult to consider such things, but it is far better to do it now, taking the appropriate measures to ensure that you will be dwelling with the Lord for ever.
THEY GAVE FORTH THEIR LOTS
“ 26 And they gave forth their lots; and the lot fell upon Matthias; and he was numbered with the eleven apostles.”
Having heard the words of Peter, selected candidates for the office, and prayed for God to make known His choice, the disciples now provide a means through which the Lord can make His choice known.
THEY GAVE FORTH THEIR LOTS
“And they gave forth their lots . . .” Other versions read, “And they cast their lots,” NKJV “And they drew lots for them,” NIV “And they put it to the decision of chance,” BBE “And they gave them lot,” DARBY “Then they drew straws,” LIVING “Then the apostles gave the two men lots,” WEYMOUTH “And they drew lots [between the two],” AMPLIFIED and “Then they drew lots for these men.” PHILLIPS
On the surface, this appeared to be an action of chance. Some have likened it to drawing straws – in fact, the Living Bible translates the phrase “gave forth their lots” as “drew straws.” Others have paralleled it with throwing dice. In the simplest form, casting lots would involve writing the names on individual stones, placing the stones in a container, then drawing one of the stones out of the container. The name on that stone was the official choice. It its most complex form, it would involve each person casting their lot to write the name they chose on a stone or piece of wood. That would then be thrown into a container, and the stones would be tallied, with the majority of stones signifying the choice. The latter form is something like the voting that is common in our country.
It is generally understood that each person had one of these articles – a stone, piece of wood, or other media, that contained their name. This would be used when casting lots. That, however, does not appear to fit this scenario.
The Practice Foreshadowed
➪ When the land of Canaan was divided among the tribes. It was done by the casting of lots. In this case, each tribe would be represented by a stone on which their name was written. When considering a specific portion of the land, the lot would be cast, and the name of the tribe on the stone that was drawn was given the land. “And Joshua cast lots for them in Shiloh before the LORD: and there Joshua divided the land unto the children of Israel according to their divisions” (Josh 18:10).
➪ Among some Gentiles, this was the mode of the men determining the cause of the storm that fell on the ship in which Jonah was running away from the Lord. In this instance, the names of the possible culprits were written on some media, and the name on the media that was picked was the person charged. “And they said every one to his fellow, Come, and let us cast lots, that we may know for whose cause this evil is upon us. So they cast lots, and the lot fell upon Jonah” (Jonah 1:7).
➪ When determining who would be included in the singing for the house of the Lord, the choice was made by casting lots. Similar the case above, names of the candidates were placed on a piece of stone or wood, and the name on the article selected was given the office. “All these were under the hands of their father for song in the house of the LORD, with cymbals, psalteries, and harps, for the service of the house of God, according to the king's order to Asaph, Jeduthun, and Heman. So the number of them, with their brethren that were instructed in the songs of the LORD, even all that were cunning, was two hundred fourscore and eight. And they cast lots, ward against ward, as well the small as the great, the teacher as the scholar” (1 Chr 25:6-8).
➪ Using the same method, under Nehemiah’s administration, it was determined that one out of every ten people would dwell in Jerusalem. Lots were cast to determine who it would be. “And the rulers of the people dwelt at Jerusalem: the rest of the people also cast lots, to bring one of ten to dwell in Jerusalem the holy city, and nine parts to dwell in other cities” (Neh 11:1).
➪ Similarly, when Jesus was crucified, the soldiers cast lots for His garments, thereby fulfilling the Scripture. “And they crucified him, and parted his garments, casting lots: that it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the prophet, They parted my garments among them, and upon my vesture did they cast lots” (Matt 27:35; Lk 23:34; John 19:24; Psa 22:18).
Keep in mind that a considerable amount of effort had went into the process BEFORE the lots were cast.
➪ The people had prayed and made supplications to the God of heaven.
➪ Peter had shown the gravity of the situation by unfolding what had to be done.
➪ The qualifications that had to be met were clearly specified.
➪ Men meeting the qualifications had been selected.
➪ The people had asked God to reveal the man whom He had chosen.
Thus, from one point of view, this was not a decision thrown, as it were, into the wind.
Solomon provided some insight into the matter of casting lots, showing that this was a means by which God reveals His own choices. “The lot is cast into the lap; but the whole disposing thereof is of the LORD” (Prov 16:33). Other versions read, “But its every decision is of the Lord,” NKJV “but the decision is the Lord’s alone,” NRSV “but the decision is wholly of the Lord,” RSV “but the LORD determines how they fall,” NLT “And from Jehovah is all its judgment,” YLT “but it is the Lord who controls the decision,” LIVING and “but the decision is wholly of the Lord [even the events that seem accidental are really ordered by Him]” AMPLIFIED
This was, then, an act of faith. It was preceded by doing everything possible to men, then leaving the matter in the hands of the Lord. In a sense, this was something like casting all your care upon the Lord. As it is written, “Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for
you” (1 Pet 5:7). That too is preceded by doing what we can: “Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you in due time:” (1 Pet 5:6). The verse beginning “casting all your care,” is the last part of the sentence commencing in the previous verse.
THE LOT FELL ON MATTHIAS
“ . . . and the lot fell upon Matthias . . .” Other versions read, “and the decision was given for Matthias,” DARBY“and it came upon Matthias,” MRD “and as the lot fell to Matthias,” NJB “and in this way Matthias was chosen,” NLT and “Then the apostles gave the two men lots. The lots showed that Matthias was the one.” IE
Thus God, working through their casting of lots, revealed His choice was Matthias. All of the souls present were in the proper frame of spirit, and there were no dissenting voices. I should not doubt that, if there were lots for everyone present, they were all cast for Matthias. They were, after all, in “one accord.” Voting, as we know it, generally assumes different preferences. In this case, God could very well have directed every participant, thereby controlling the decision.
HE WAS NUMBERED WITH THE ELEVEN
“ . . . and he was numbered with the eleven apostles.” Other versions read, “so he was added to the eleven apostles,” NASB “and he was by a common consent counted with the eleven Apostles,” GENEVA “and he was numbered with the eleven legates,” MRD “he was listed as one of the twelve apostles,” NJB “and became an apostle with the other eleven,” NLT “and became an apostle with the other eleven,” LIVING “So, he became an apostle like the other eleven,” IE “and he was added to and counted with the eleven apostles (special messengers),” AMPLIFIED and “and thereafter he was considered equally an apostle with the eleven.” PHILLIPS
Remember, this is being written over thirty years later, as Luke was led by the Spirit. Matthias was, then, the God-ordained person to fill the bishopric vacated by Judas. They had asked for God to reveal His choice, and He did.
Additionally, the people recognized that this was God’s choice and immediately acclimated themselves to it, numbering Matthias with the eleven. Now, when we read of “the twelve” (Acts 6:2), the number includes Matthias. When we read of “the apostles,” Matthias is now among them (Acts 2:37,42,43; 4:33,25,26,37; 5:2,18,34,40; 6:6; 8:1,15,18; 9:27; 11:1; 14:14; 15:2,4,6,22,23,33; 16:4).
Thus everything is ready for the “promise of the Father” to be received, and for the disciples to be “endued with power from on high.” The preparatory things that needed to be done have been accomplished. The stage is set, and the curtain is about to be lifted on “the day of salvation” and the “accepted time.”
CONCLUSION
Thus Luke has provided us with the essential activities that took place during the ten days between Christ’s ascension and the coming day of Pentecost. The minds of all of the disciples have been properly focused, and therefore they have all been in one accord, joined together in the same mind and in the same judgment. Both men and women have joined together in the activities: praising God, praying, hearing Peter, and choosing Matthias. There is not the slightest hint that anyone present was excluded, for that would render the phrase “with one accord” meaningless. There is no point to being of one accord if that accord is not in some way expressed. That is precisely why Paul wrote, “That ye may with one mind and one mouth glorify God, even the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ” (Rom 15:6). And again, “Now I beseech you, brethren, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that ye all speak the same thing, and that there be no divisions among you; but that ye be perfectly joined together in the same mind and in the same judgment” (1 Cor 1:10).
Now they are ready for “the promise of the Father” (Acts 1:4), and to be “endued with power from our high” (Lk 24:49). They are ready to receive, ready to become Christ’s witnesses, and ready to be empowered to preach the Gospel, “beginning at Jerusalem” (Lk 24:47), then in “in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth” (Acts 1:8).
This account has taught us that those who are used by God must have adequate preparation. They must be sanctified by being in the presence of the Lord. They must also address any unfinished business that remains. This is all involved in being “prepared unto every good work” (2 Tim 2:21).
It has also taught us that the government of the kingdom is really upon Christ’s shoulders, and that the ultimate choices are made by God, not man. Jesus is the One who is building His church. His brethren are involved, but are strictly under His administration. Blessed is the person who knows, comprehends, and acquiesces to this.
This account reveals the details of Divine thought, and the extent of human involvement in God’s eternal purpose. All of this takes place in an environment of willing submission and discernment. It is driven by faith and accompanied by hope. This is how the Lord works. It reveals how faith responds. It confirms how the will of the Lord is sought, and how the will of the Lord can, in fact, be known.