The Replacement of Judas in Acts 1

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Scripture tells us an apostle needed to be an eyewitness of the resurrection of our Lord.

It came down to a choice between Joseph called Barsabas and Matthias, who had both seen the resurrection.

Church tradition indicates Matthias went out and was an apostle to Ethiopia.

There is also an indication of "Let another take his office" (Acts 1:20; Psalm 109:8).

By all indications, Matthias was someone who had been with and around the Lord, and those who were apostles, was qualified for the unique office of apostle, and even that it was prophesied, by implication there would be a replacement of Judas Iscariot.

Acts 1

16Men and brethren, this scripture must needs have been fulfilled, which the Holy Ghost by the mouth of David spake before concerning Judas, which was guide to them that took Jesus.

17For he was numbered with us, and had obtained part of this ministry.

18Now this man purchased a field with the reward of iniquity; and falling headlong, he burst asunder in the midst, and all his bowels gushed out.

19And it was known unto all the dwellers at Jerusalem; insomuch as that field is called in their proper tongue, Aceldama, that is to say, The field of blood.

20For it is written in the book of Psalms, Let his habitation be desolate, and let no man dwell therein: and his bishoprick let another take.

21Wherefore of these men which have companied with us all the time that the Lord Jesus went in and out among us,

22Beginning from the baptism of John, unto that same day that he was taken up from us, must one be ordained to be a witness with us of his resurrection.

23And they appointed two, Joseph called Barsabas, who was surnamed Justus, and Matthias.
 
I'm with Calvin on this. For him, it was Spirit-led and a matter of prophecy-fulfillment. Acts itself knows nothing of a "rush-to-judgment" in this case. The whole thing is presented as something done very decently and in order, and a model of apostolic leadership and Scripture interpretation.
 
I support Bruce's appeal to Calvin. There is an apologetical problem with Hodge's view so far as the foundations of Christianity are concerned. Salvation is of the Jews. The twelve apostles were chosen as the foundation of the new Israel to bring salvation to the world. The selection of twelve apostles was important to the apostolic church's commission of judging the twelve tribes of Israel and needed to be complete before the worldwide mission commenced with the outpouring of the Spirit at pentecost. Further, Paul was an apostle to the Gentiles, not to the Jews.
 
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