the Third Week after Easter
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Daily Devotionals
Day by Day Devotional - Year 4 of 5
Acts 1:15-26
Peter speaks to the early disciples. He recalls the unhappy end of Judas who had hanged himself (Matthew 27:5-8) – a dreadful death but an infinitely more dreadful eternal destiny! (v. 25). Then, trusting to the light and authority of the Scriptures, Peter shows the need to replace the fallen disciple. Twelve apostles were to be, as it were, the official witnesses of this fundamental fact of Christianity: the resurrection of the Lord Jesus (cf. 1 Corinthians 15:5) Joseph and Matthias were amongst those who had had the privilege of accompanying the Lord Jesus during His ministry down here. Perhaps they formed part of the seventy whom He had once sent out (Luke 10:1). After they had asked the Lord, who knows "the hearts of all men," to reveal His choice, they cast lots and Matthias was appointed.
Casting lots today would not be appropriate for the Holy Spirit is here and He gives believers the discernment they need. It is interesting in this respect to compare this scene with Acts 13:2 where the Holy Spirit commands, "Separate me Barnabas and Saul for the work whereunto I have called them".
