Acts 1:12-26

This passage might seem fairly inconsequential at first. Why tell us all this? Why show the beaurocracy that the apostles went through when picking leaders?

God's plan is indestructible

God knew from the very beginning of time that Judas would betray Jesus. This was part of God's plan, and He had already chosen someone to replace Judas as an apostle.

The wicked will be judged

What happened to Judas was an isolated incident. Turning against God will not have such immediate effect & punishment like it did for Judas, but this serves as a good reminder that God will not take rejection lightly and one day there will be judgement. Whilst there are other examples in the New Testament of instant judgement and punishment, God is a merciful God. He gives each one of us an entire life, a huge chance to witness His love and power and respond accordingly. Remember this, and try to be a part of that experience for the non-christians you know. You might be their only direct way of hearing the gospel, so be prepared and call upon the Holy Spirit to enable you to clearly show them the choice they must make.

This also reminds us that it is not our responsibility to seek vengance for God (or even ourselves). It is God who judges and punishes, not us; so take any rejection or foul deed on turn it into loving and grace-filled actions in response. That may even be the turning point for those who attack you. Even in the darkest times filled with the most evil actions, God will work for your good and His glory.

God will always have witnesses

In the absense of Judas, the apostles needed a new member. Logistically, Judas was in charge of a share of the ministry and that needed to be taken by someone else to save the apostles doing too much! Also, there was the symbolism of Israel that Jesus used. He wanted the church to be a new Israel (God's chosen people) and so having 12 heads of that in reflection to the 12 tribes was important.

Matthias was chosen by God. He was clearly one of many who had seen Jesus entire minstry up close, and who had seen the resurrected Jesus in person. God had placed Matthias there on the sidelines all this time leading him to take this role. No matter the obstacles, God will always have His way and provide a solution for His people.