Acts 1:12-26
Q.1. Where did the disciples go after Christ’s ascension? Why? Who was present? What were they doing? – (Acts 1:12-15 c.f. Acts 1:4)
In some of His final words, Jesus had reiterated that His kingdom reign was postponed and that they were to be His witnesses throughout the world. However, before they could do this, they were to wait for the empowerment from the indwelling Holy Spirit in Jerusalem (see Acts 1:4 c.f. Mt.28:19-20; Acts 1:8). Therefore, they returned to the upper room where Jesus had washed their feet and where they had celebrated the Passover together (see (John.Chpts.13-16). Joining the Eleven apostles were other disciples – along with the women, and Mary the mother of Jesus, and with His brothers … totaling some 120 (see Acts 1:14-15). It seems almost certain that Jesus appeared to His own half-brothers personally during the forty days after His resurrection (see Acts 1:3; 1 Cor.15:6-7). Whatever, and however – These all with one mind were continually devoting themselves to prayer … (Acts 1:14). They were waiting on God to touch them and direct them.
Q.2. Who led the proceedings? How did they view Judas? What added insight do we have about his death? – (Acts 1:15-19 c.f. Mt.27:3-10)
Peter had been reinstated as the recognized leader of the chosen apostles and believers (see Lk.22:32; Jn.21:15-19). Impressed on his mind were the Scriptures that showed that they were to keep the number of the Twelve apostles intact by replacing Judas. Judas had made the worst decision in history since he had been – … counted among us and received his share in this ministry” (Acts 1:17). Matthew explained the circumstances of the Field of Blood where Judas had committed suicide. Peter added more details about the tragic way in which his life ended in loneliness and darkness.
Q.3. On what basis did Peter advise that Judas should be replaced among the Twelve? What qualification was the replacement to have? How was the choice made? – (Acts 1:20-26)
Some have queried whether Peter should have sought a replacement for Judas, since Paul claimed apostleship (see 1 Cor.15:8-10). However, Peter’s reasons were based on the fulfilment of Scripture. The manner in which the replacement was chosen was a combination of human judgment, and the seeking of divine guidance through the casting of lots (see Acts 1:20, 23-26). Therefore, it seems likely that Matthias will have his name on the foundation stones of the Twelve Apostles of the Lamb (see Rev.21:14). Most importantly, Peter clearly set forth what he understood was to be the interim role of an apostle – 21 … it is necessary that of the men who have accompanied us all the time that the Lord Jesus went in and out among us– 22 beginning with the baptism of John until the day that He was taken up from us–one of these must become a witness with us of His resurrection.” (Acts 1:21-22). Whatever else the apostles and the continuing church were called to do – we are primarily to be witnesses to His Resurrection. I am personally convinced of this fact because: (i) Before my conversion, my religion provided no certain hope of life after death. Since my conversion, the Holy Spirit has confirmed in my heart of the reality of the Resurrection. (see Phil.3:10-11). (ii) Paul stated clearly that if there is no Resurrection, then we are without hope of life beyond the grave (see 1 Cor.15:12-22). Therefore, we should never stray from this focus of the early church in our ministry, because it forms the basis of hope for all sinners.