Acts 1:16-26

Devotion 1: The Inspiration of Scripture

Key Scripture: Acts 1:16 (CSB)

"Brothers and sisters, it was necessary that the Scripture be fulfilled that the Holy Spirit through the mouth of David foretold about Judas."

Short Devotional:

Peter's recognition of the Scriptures being inspired by the Holy Spirit highlights an essential aspect of our faith. The Bible isn't just a collection of human writings but is divinely inspired. It's a fusion of human expression and divine revelation. Understanding this helps us approach Scripture with reverence and attentiveness, knowing that through its pages, God speaks to us.

Discussion Question:

How does recognizing the divine inspiration of Scripture impact your approach to reading and studying the Bible?

Prayer:

Lord, thank you for inspiring the words of Scripture through your Holy Spirit. Help us to approach your Word with humility and openness, seeking to understand your truth and apply it to our lives. Amen.

Devotion 2: Resolving Contradictions in Scripture

Key Scripture: Acts 1:18 (CSB)

"Now this man acquired a field with his unrighteous wages. He fell headfirst, his body burst open and his intestines spilled out."

Short Devotional:

Peter's account of Judas's death might seem contradictory to Matthew's Gospel. However, differences in biblical accounts don't necessarily imply contradiction but often highlight different perspectives or details. Understanding this helps us appreciate the richness and depth of Scripture without stumbling over apparent discrepancies.

Discussion Question:

How do you reconcile differences in biblical accounts when they seem contradictory?

Prayer:

Lord, grant us wisdom as we navigate the complexities of Scripture. Help us to approach your Word with discernment, recognizing the unity of its message despite apparent differences. Amen.

Devotion 3: Fulfillment of Old Testament Prophecy

Key Scripture: Acts 1:20 (CSB)

"For it is written in the Book of Psalms: Let his dwelling become desolate; let no one live in it; and Let someone else take his position."

Short Devotional:

Peter cites Old Testament passages to justify the replacement of Judas. This highlights the importance of understanding Scripture in its broader context. The Old Testament foreshadows and complements the New Testament, providing a rich tapestry of God's redemptive plan.

Discussion Question:

How does studying Old Testament prophecy enhance your understanding of the New Testament?

Prayer:

Father, thank you for the harmony between the Old and New Testaments, revealing your sovereign plan of redemption. Help us to delve deeper into Scripture, discovering the interconnectedness of your Word. Amen.

Devotion 4: Apostolic Qualifications

Key Scripture: Acts 1:22 (CSB)

"From among these, it is necessary that one become a witness with us of his resurrection."

Short Devotional:

The criteria for selecting Matthias underscore the importance of firsthand experience with Jesus and His resurrection. Being an apostle wasn't merely about position but about having a personal encounter with the risen Christ. These apostolic qualifications also refutes the idea of apostolic succession through out generations. They had a special authority and teaching at the beginning of the church, but now we pass on their teaching and the gospel, not their apostolic positions.

Prayer:

Lord, grant us a deeper revelation of your Son, Jesus Christ. May our faith be rooted in personal encounter with Him, empowering us to fulfill the calling you've placed on our lives. Amen.

Devotion 5: Biblical Decision Making

Key Scripture: Acts 1:24-26 (CSB)

"And they prayed, 'You, Lord, know everyone’s hearts; show which of these two you have chosen to take the place in this apostolic ministry.' Then they cast lots for them, and the lot fell to Matthias, so he was added to the eleven apostles."

Short Devotional:

The disciples' method of decision-making, though unusual to us, reflects their dependence on God's sovereignty. While they presented two worthy candidates, they ultimately trusted God to guide their choice. This highlights the importance of seeking God's will in our decision-making processes and trusting His providence. The decision was also built upon there the scriptures and Jesus’s teaching. It’s also important to remember that this occurred before they received the Holy Spirit. Believers today should use wisdom from the Holy Spirit and their church community to make wise decisions. 

Discussion Question:

How can we cultivate a greater reliance on God's guidance in our decision-making?

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, help us to trust in your wisdom and sovereignty as we make decisions in our lives. May we seek your will above our own desires, knowing that you hold our future in your hands. Amen.