Acts 1:12-26

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TALKS FOR GROWING CHRISTIANS

The Early Christians Gather; The Selection of Matthias

BACKGROUND NOTES



DOCTRINAL POINT(S)

  1. The betrayal of Judas was according to Scripture.

  2. The selection was Matthias was according to Scripture.

PRACTICAL APPLICATION

  1. You can’t go wrong if you continue in unity and prayer.

QUESTIONS

  1. From which mountain did the Lord ascend?

  2. What should we notice about Mary in Acts 1:14?

  3. Is the account of the death of Judas in Acts 1:18 in contradiction to Matthew 27:5?

  4. The betrayal of the Lord Jesus was predetermined and predicted in Scripture. Was Judas responsible for his evil deed?

  5. What qualifications did someone have to meet to be eligible to take Judas’ place as an apostle?

ANSWERS

  1. The Mount of Olives, which overlooks the town of Bethany

  2. The disciples prayed with Mary, not to her. Mary is referred to as the “mother of Jesus,” not the “Mother of God.”

  3. No, most likely Judas hanged himself over a rocky precipice and the rope broke and his body burst open on the rocks below.

  4. Yes, we see here the sovereignty of God and the responsibility of man working together. See Luke 22:22.

  5. He must have been a follower of the faith throughout the Lord’s pubic ministry, from the time of John’s baptism until the resurrection and ascension.

DISCUSS/CONSIDER

  1. Discuss the casting of lots used to determine Judas’ replacement. Keep in mind these three points: This was an accepted method in the Old Testament. This was a non-moral decision. They prayed that the Lord would show them in this way whom He had chosen.

  2. The Lord blessed the early church as they continued in unity and prayer. Read Psalm 133:1. It takes work for as church to be in unity and time must be sacrificed for prayer, but God will bless and guide a fellowship of His people who prioritize this. How is your fellowship doing with unity and prayer? Are there areas in which you could improve?

CHALLENGE

  1. As you make major and daily decisions this week, be sure to pray that the Lord will guide your decisions. If you ask Him, He will!

KEY VERSES

  • “These all continued with one accord in prayer and supplication.” Acts 1:14 “You, O Lord, who know the hearts of all, show which of these two You have chosen to take part in this ministry and apostleship from which Judas by transgression fell.” Acts 1:24-25



Acts, Talks, New TestamentDeb HarmsActs 1:12-26