What does Acts 1:26 mean?

One hundred twenty Jesus-followers wait in an upper room in Jerusalem for the coming of the Holy Spirit (Acts 1:5, 15). After prayer and consideration, they have identified two men, Joseph Barsabbas and Matthias, who are qualified to replace Judas Iscariot as one of the twelve apostles. Both men witnessed Jesus' ministry from His baptism to His resurrection (Acts 1:21–22). Now the group needs to know which one God has chosen.

The practice of casting lots was an honored tradition in Israel for determining the will of God. Unlike fortune telling or scrying, God ordained and directed the Urim and Thummim that were kept with the high priest (Leviticus 8:8). Lots were used often in the Old Testament, most importantly in dividing up the Promised Land to the twelve tribes (Joshua 18:6). In this case, the names of Joseph and Matthias are probably written on stones and placed in a jar. The jar is shaken until one of the stones comes out.

This is the last recorded case in the Bible of God's people using lots. Within days, the Holy Spirit will come upon this room and permanently dwell inside the hearts of the people (Acts 2:1–4). As Jesus promised, the Holy Spirit will guide Jesus-followers into truth; lots are no longer needed (John 16:13).

There is great discussion as to whether God really wanted Matthias to be the twelfth apostle or if he was a placeholder until Paul was converted. Everything points to Matthias. Although Paul saw Jesus after the resurrection (1 Corinthians 9:1), he did not witness Jesus' baptism or travel with Him during His ministry, as Peter stipulated (Acts 1:21–22). There were many godly men and women in that room, and thousands more came after God sent the Holy Spirit. Each of them had specific roles, chosen by God (Ephesians 2:10). Matthias' role is that of an apostle.