16 May 2021 7th Sunday of Easter
Then they prayed and said, ‘Lord, you know everyone’s heart. Show us which one of these two you have chosen to take the place in this ministry and apostleship from which Judas turned aside to go to his own place.’ And they cast lots for them, and the lot fell on Matthias; and he was added to the eleven apostles.
Acts 1:15-17,20-26, NRSV
It was important for the apostles to select a replacement for Judas. The number twelve symbolised completion as represented by the twelve tribes of Israel. Peter set strict criteria for the selection of this replacement who had to have accompanied the apostles from the time when John was baptising until the moment of Jesus’ Ascension. It was also crucial that whoever was chosen had been a witness to the Resurrection. With these strict criteria in mind, two names were nominated from a gathering of about one hundred and twenty; Matthias and Joseph (Barsabbas). Peter then led the congregation in prayer for guidance as to which man should be chosen and Matthias was was then selected by lot. Like the other apostles, he dedicated his life to evangelisation and suffered persecution and death as they did.
- How do you suppose Matthias felt about being selected?
- What part should prayer have in the selection of leaders in our churches?
Be ready to welcome newcomers within your family, church and wider society.
