For he was numbered with us, and had obtained part of this ministry.

ACTS 1:17KJV
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Acts 1:17 (KJV)

What does Acts 1:17 mean?

Acts 1:17 says that Judas was counted as one of the original disciples and shared in the work and responsibilities of their ministry. This verse points out that Judas had a real and official role among the apostles before his betrayal.

Peter is speaking to the gathered believers after Jesus’ ascension, explaining how Judas, though now infamous for betraying Jesus, was once fully included among the twelve apostles. The verse highlights that Judas was not an outsider but had truly been part of the group’s mission and service from the beginning.

The Greek behind Acts 1:17

  • "numbered" (καταριθμέω, katarithmeō): This word means to be counted or listed among a group. It emphasizes that Judas was officially recognized as one of the apostles, not just a casual follower.
  • "obtained" (λαγχάνω, lanchanō): This word often means to receive by lot or to be allotted a share. It suggests that Judas was given a real share or portion in the ministry, just like the others.
  • "part" (κλῆρος, klēros): This word can mean a share, portion, or lot. Here, it refers to Judas’s share in the apostolic ministry, highlighting that he had a genuine role and responsibility.

Why Acts 1:17 matters

  • Acts 1:17 clarifies that Judas was not a fringe member but fully included in Jesus’ chosen group, which makes his later betrayal even more striking.
  • The verse sets up the need to replace Judas, showing that the ministry of the apostles was meant to continue with a full number.
  • By stressing Judas’s original place among the apostles, the verse underscores the seriousness of his actions and the importance of integrity within leadership.

Where else these words appear

“obtained” Greek G2975 · used in 4 verses

  • Luke 1:9 According to the custom of the priest's office, his lot was to burn incense when he went into the temple of the Lord.
  • John 19:24 They said therefore among themselves, Let us not rend it, but cast lots for it, whose it shall be: that the scripture might be fulfilled, which saith, They parted my raiment among them, and for my vesture they did cast lots. These things therefore the soldiers did.
  • 2 Peter 1:1 Simon Peter, a servant and an apostle of Jesus Christ, to them that have obtained like precious faith with us through the righteousness of God and our Saviour Jesus Christ:

“part” Greek G2819 · used in 11 verses

  • Matthew 27:35 And they crucified him, and parted his garments, casting lots: that it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the prophet, They parted my garments among them, and upon my vesture did they cast lots.
  • John 19:24 They said therefore among themselves, Let us not rend it, but cast lots for it, whose it shall be: that the scripture might be fulfilled, which saith, They parted my raiment among them, and for my vesture they did cast lots. These things therefore the soldiers did.
  • Acts 8:21 Thou hast neither part nor lot in this matter: for thy heart is not right in the sight of God.

“ministry” Greek G1248 · used in 32 verses

  • Luke 10:40 But Martha was cumbered about much serving, and came to him, and said, Lord, dost thou not care that my sister hath left me to serve alone? bid her therefore that she help me.
  • Romans 15:31 That I may be delivered from them that do not believe in Judaea; and that my service which I have for Jerusalem may be accepted of the saints;
  • 2 Corinthians 9:1 For as touching the ministering to the saints, it is superfluous for me to write to you:

“this” Greek G5026 · used in 119 verses

  • Matthew 10:23 But when they persecute you in this city, flee ye into another: for verily I say unto you, Ye shall not have gone over the cities of Israel, till the Son of man be come.
  • Luke 18:5 Yet because this widow troubleth me, I will avenge her, lest by her continual coming she weary me.
  • Acts 23:13 And they were more than forty which had made this conspiracy.