The Choice of Matthias in Acts 1:15–26

Abstract

This article deals with the choice of a replacement for Judas Iscariot in the Acts of the Apostles particularly from the standpoint of the Semitic background to the event. It begins by determining where the episode actually starts, with respect to an identification of the ἀδeλφοί mentioned in the text. It moves on to demonstrate that despite seemingly contradicting Jesus’ earlier command to “wait” in the holy city, the disciples see themselves as both justified in their actions and obeying the divine plan in taking this initiative. After addressing the issue of Peter’s speech justifying the Apostles’ actions, the article takes the position that the prayer of the community beginning with the words σὺ κύριe is likely addressed to the Risen Christ rather than God the Father. The issue of the casting of lots is approached from the standpoint of its Semitic background, particularly from its Hebrew Bible background, as a sacral act linked directly with the preceding prayer to demonstrate that the Risen Lord was still guiding the early Christian community. The final section of the article discusses the concept of the Twelve and its importance to both Judaism and primitive Christianity.