The Role of Witnessing and the Selection of Apostles in Acts 1:21-22

When considering the passages in Acts 1:5-8 and 1:21-22, it is important to understand the role of witnessing and the selection of apostles within the early Christian community. Jesus promised his disciples the power to witness, emphasizing that witnessing is not merely speaking about events but being present during those events and having the courage to share them.

Understanding the Becoming of a Witness

According to Acts 1:5-8, the disciples would soon be baptized in the Holy Spirit. This baptism was to be available to all believers, not just the 12 apostles initially chosen. The text mentions that the 120 believers assembled in the upper room had seen Jesus at work, witnessed his death and resurrection, and thus were qualified to serve as witnesses. Becoming a witness means being present when certain actions took place, not merely speaking about them.

The Selection of Apostles: A Process of Faith and Leadership

After Jesus left, the disciples decided to choose someone to replace Judas. This process is described in Acts 1:21-22. Peter and the other disciples agreed that it was important to maintain the number of 12 apostles, as it symbolized Jesus' choice and the foundation stones of the new Jerusalem (Revelation 21:14).

Criteria for Choosing an Apostle

The criteria for selecting an apostle were that the chosen person had been with Jesus during his public ministry. The process involved prayer and casting lots, a method common for discerning God's will and originated with Moses (Numbers 26:55).

The Selection of Matthias and Subsequent Questions

Two men met the criteria, and lots were cast to determine the chosen apostle. Matthias was selected. Some have suggested that Matthias might not have truly been an apostle since we hear of him very little in Acts, and he was not called an apostle in subsequent verses. However, the selection process should not be viewed as a mistake but as a response to the need for continued witness as promised by Jesus.

Conclusion: The Work of the Holy Spirit

The Holy Spirit was essential for the work of witnessing and the selection of apostles. Jesus breathed on his disciples in John 20:22, foreshadowing the fuller presence and power of the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit was active in the hearts of the believers, birthing them anew, forgiving their sins, and empowering them as witnesses of Christ's salvation.

Thus, the process of choosing an apostle in Acts 1:21-22 emphasizes the importance of faith, the presence of the Holy Spirit, and the call to continue witnessing Christ's work in the world.