When the disciples needed to replace Judas, it was not a playground exercise of choosing by personal preference. This was a critical choice for obeying Jesus’ commissioning call to spread the Good News.
The eleven disciples set ground rules for their selection. Each candidate had to have traveled with Jesus and witnessed the resurrection. They nominated two possibilities without argument or push: Matthias and Joseph Barsabbas, also known as Justus. Most commentators believe these two were part of the 72 Jesus sent in pairs to every town Jesus planned to visit. (Luke 10:1)
Every church member who votes for church leadership or representation should recognize what Peter did next. There was no discussion, no sides, no preferences. But there was prayer. Peter prayed asking God to reveal His choice for replacement. (Acts 1:24-25)
The voting process was by drawing lots. This was not a casual practice leaving the decision to chance. This voting method gave God the deciding vote. Wiersbe’s commentary on this practice explains that each candidate’s name was written on a stone. The two stones were placed in a container. Someone, probably Peter, tipped the container and one stone rolled out. The disciples accepted this as God’s vote and their decision. The name that rolled out was Matthias.
After this vote, we don’t hear of Matthias or Joseph Barsabbas elsewhere in scripture. They were as hidden in the missionary work after Jesus' resurrection and ascension as they were in traveling with Him before the cross.
Perhaps our lesson is in their hiddenness. Not every person who fulfills God’s purpose will be noticed. Sometimes the work, the service, or the sacrifice is hidden, at least from us. But God always sees. The question is whether we are satisfied with unnoticed obedience. God can do some of His best work in hidden places and with people who don’t need a spotlight.
God chose Matthias to fill the vacancy in the disciples. But God also chose Joseph Barsabbas because he needed him to stay right where he was.
Are you where God can use you best? Hidden or noticed doesn’t make the difference. Only obedience does.
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