Acts 1:24 (KJV)

What does Acts 1:24 mean?

Acts 1:24 shows the apostles praying and asking God, who knows everyone’s heart, to reveal which of the two men He has chosen to replace Judas as an apostle. The verse highlights their trust in God’s perfect knowledge and guidance in making this important decision.

The setting is after Jesus’ ascension, when the remaining apostles are gathered to choose a new twelfth apostle. Peter has led the group in narrowing the choice to two candidates, and now they turn to God in prayer, openly acknowledging that only God truly knows people’s hearts. This verse emphasizes their dependence on God’s wisdom rather than relying solely on their own judgment.

The Greek behind Acts 1:24

• "hearts" (καρδίας, kardias): This word refers to the inner life or true character of a person, not just emotions but the whole inner self. The apostles are recognizing that only God sees beyond outward appearances.
• "chosen" (ἐξελέξω, exelexō): This verb means to select or pick out for a purpose. The apostles are not making the choice themselves but are asking God to show whom He has already selected.
• "shew" (ἀναδείξαι, anadeixai): This word means to show, reveal, or point out. The apostles are asking God to make His choice clear to them, not just to approve their decision.

Why Acts 1:24 matters

• Acts 1:24 clears up any idea that the apostles made their decision based on personal preference or qualifications alone; instead, they sought God’s direction.
• The verse highlights the belief that God alone truly knows each person’s heart and intentions, a theme that runs throughout the Bible.
• This prayerful approach sets a pattern for seeking God’s guidance in important decisions, showing the early church’s dependence on God rather than human wisdom.