Theory question 106
Pentecost and the Early ChurchDescribe the election of a successor of Judas Iscariot. What two lessons can we learn from this incident?
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After the Ascension, about 120 believers gathered in Jerusalem (Acts 1:15).
Peter said the scripture about Judas, who guided those who arrested Jesus, had to be fulfilled (Acts 1:16-20).
Another must take his office: a man who had been with them from John's baptism to the Ascension, to be a witness of the resurrection (Acts 1:21-22).
Two were put forward: Joseph called Barsabbas (Justus) and Matthias (Acts 1:23).
They prayed that the Lord, who knows all hearts, would show which one He had chosen (Acts 1:24-25).
They cast lots; the lot fell on Matthias, and he was added to the eleven apostles (Acts 1:26).
Lessons (any two): leaders should be chosen with prayer; leaders should have proven experience and good character; vacancies in God's work should be filled; God's will should guide decisions; scripture guides the church.
Give the qualifications, the candidates, the prayer and the lot, then two lessons.