Acts 1:23
And they appointed two, Joseph called Barsabas, who was surnamed Justus, and Matthias.
Original Language Analysis
καὶ
And
G2532
καὶ
And
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
1 of 12
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
ἔστησαν
they appointed
G2476
ἔστησαν
they appointed
Strong's:
G2476
Word #:
2 of 12
to stand (transitively or intransitively), used in various applications (literally or figuratively)
τὸν
G3588
τὸν
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
5 of 12
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
καλούμενον
called
G2564
καλούμενον
called
Strong's:
G2564
Word #:
6 of 12
to "call" (properly, aloud, but used in a variety of applications, directly or otherwise)
Βαρσαβᾶν
Barsabas
G923
Βαρσαβᾶν
Barsabas
Strong's:
G923
Word #:
7 of 12
son of sabas (or tsaba); bar-sabas, the name of two israelites
ὃς
who
G3739
ὃς
who
Strong's:
G3739
Word #:
8 of 12
the relatively (sometimes demonstrative) pronoun, who, which, what, that
ἐπεκλήθη
was surnamed
G1941
ἐπεκλήθη
was surnamed
Strong's:
G1941
Word #:
9 of 12
to entitle; by implication, to invoke (for aid, worship, testimony, decision, etc.)
Historical Context
Both candidates had witnessed Jesus' entire ministry, resurrection, and ascension. Their willingness to be submitted to divine choice shows humility about leadership positions.
Questions for Reflection
- How do you respond when equally qualified for a position that goes to another?
- What does submitting decisions to God's choice teach about leadership appointment?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
The two candidates - Joseph Barsabas (called Justus) and Matthias - both met the qualifications. The choice between equally qualified candidates was submitted to divine determination through prayer and lot-casting. This demonstrates dependence on God's wisdom beyond human assessment.