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Which two ways were used to select a successor to Judas Iscariot ?

Question #17070. Asked by Rosie.

Barrow boy
Answer has 2 votes
Barrow boy
22 year member
532 replies

Answer has 2 votes.
The first stage was the decision that the new apostle had to be personally acquainted with Jesus and his teachings from his baptism to his crucifixion, and must also have witnessed the resurrection. This left only two real contenders, Joseph (or Barsabas) and Matthias. The second stage was a vote amongst the eleven apostles: Matthias won. See Acts of the Apostles 1: 21-26.

Mar 10 2002, 11:53 AM
Jack Flash
Answer has 2 votes
Jack Flash

Answer has 2 votes.
According to Chapter One of The Acts of the Apostles the successor to Judas Iscariot was drawn by lot after the remaining 11 disciples had prayed to God for guidance after two names had been put forward ie Joseph Barsabbas (also known as Justus) and Matthias. The one chosen by lot was Matthias who was added to the group of 11 apostles.

Mar 10 2002, 11:56 AM
Barrow boy
Answer has 2 votes
Barrow boy
22 year member
532 replies

Answer has 2 votes.
Jack, we meet again! Our answers differ concerning 'voting' against 'drawing of lots'. I can't remember the website but the interpretation of Acts 1 was that the Apostles actually voted having prayed for spiritual guidance.

Mar 10 2002, 1:05 PM
Jack Flash
Answer has 2 votes
Jack Flash

Answer has 2 votes.
Thanks, Barrow Boy. I always have some difficulty with Biblical questions because the answers so often depend on which version of the Bible is used as the source. My first check was in the Authorised (King James) Version which specifically mentions the drawing of lots. This was confirmed by The Good News Bible. Another reliable source I consulted is a book called Who? What? Where? in the Bible, by D M McFarlan and this too refers to selection by lot. I would think that in the particular context 'lot' and 'vote' are more or less synonymous but to me the specific mention of 'drawing of lots' suggests something other than a show of hands. But I suppose it all depends on the original Greek and how that is translated by modern scholars.

Mar 10 2002, 3:23 PM
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