This verse, Acts 1:15, sets the stage for a pivotal event in the early Christian church: the selection of a replacement apostle for Judas Iscariot. Let's break down the meaning:
"In these days..." This phrase refers to the period after Jesus' ascension into heaven (as described at the beginning of Acts 1) and before the outpouring of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost (Acts 2). It's a period of waiting and preparation.
"Peter stood up in the middle of the disciples..." Peter, as a prominent apostle, takes the initiative and leadership role. "Standing up" suggests he's about to address the group formally. "In the middle" indicates he is physically present among them and wants to be clearly heard by all.
"(and the number of names was about one hundred twenty)..." This gives us an idea of the size of the early Christian community in Jerusalem at this time. "Names" likely refers to individuals who are followers or believers, both men and women. The number is "about" 120, so it could be slightly more or less, but this is the approximate size of the group. They were likely gathered for prayer and fellowship in anticipation of the coming of the Holy Spirit.
"...and said," This introduces Peter's speech, which will be about the need to replace Judas, who had betrayed Jesus. The following verses will outline Peter's reasoning and the criteria for the replacement apostle.
In summary, Acts 1:15 provides the setting: a gathering of approximately 120 believers shortly after Jesus' ascension, where Peter assumes leadership and is about to address them on an important matter concerning the future of their group. It highlights the early church's desire to maintain the integrity of the twelve apostles, who were specifically chosen by Jesus.
This verse, Acts 1:15, sets the stage for a pivotal event in the early Christian church: the selection of a replacement apostle for Judas Iscariot. Let's break down the meaning:
"In these days..." This phrase refers to the period after Jesus' ascension into heaven (as described at the beginning of Acts 1) and before the outpouring of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost (Acts 2). It's a period of waiting and preparation.
"Peter stood up in the middle of the disciples..." Peter, as a prominent apostle, takes the initiative and leadership role. "Standing up" suggests he's about to address the group formally. "In the middle" indicates he is physically present among them and wants to be clearly heard by all.
"(and the number of names was about one hundred twenty)..." This gives us an idea of the size of the early Christian community in Jerusalem at this time. "Names" likely refers to individuals who are followers or believers, both men and women. The number is "about" 120, so it could be slightly more or less, but this is the approximate size of the group. They were likely gathered for prayer and fellowship in anticipation of the coming of the Holy Spirit.
"...and said," This introduces Peter's speech, which will be about the need to replace Judas, who had betrayed Jesus. The following verses will outline Peter's reasoning and the criteria for the replacement apostle.
In summary, Acts 1:15 provides the setting: a gathering of approximately 120 believers shortly after Jesus' ascension, where Peter assumes leadership and is about to address them on an important matter concerning the future of their group. It highlights the early church's desire to maintain the integrity of the twelve apostles, who were specifically chosen by Jesus.