Gospel Outreach International

Have you ever wondered how the early church made decisions about leadership and what principles guided their community life? This Bible study explores Acts 1:12-26, examining how the disciples responded after Jesus ascended to heaven. During this critical transition period, they demonstrated key practices that formed the foundation of the early church, including obedience, unity, and prayer. Their approach to selecting a replacement for Judas also raises important questions about decision-making in church leadership.

And when they had entered, they went up to the upper room, where they were staying, Peter and John and James and Andrew, Philip and Thomas, Bartholomew and Matthew, James the son of Alphaeus and Simon the Zealot and Judas the son of James. Acts 1:13

• Obedient Beginning: The disciples followed Jesus’ instruction to wait in Jerusalem
• Sacred Space: They gathered in the upper room, creating a quiet place away from distractions
• Unity of Purpose: They were “of one mind” and “of one accord” - a prerequisite for power
• Consistent Practice: Their gathering was not a one-time event but a regular commitment
• Prayer Priority: Both men and women participated in devoted prayer
• Biblical Foundation: Peter referred to Scripture (Psalms) when making leadership decisions
• Leadership Selection: They used a specific method (casting lots) to select Matthias

beginning from the baptism of John until the day when he was taken up from us—one of these men must become with us a witness to his resurrection. Acts 1:22

Throughout this study, we see how Jesus’ followers created a foundation for church community through obedience, unity, and prayer. While examining their method of selecting leadership, we’re reminded that Christ is the true head of the church, not any human leader. The early disciples show us that spiritual leadership decisions should be grounded in Scripture, bathed in prayer, and made in unity. Jesus established these patterns through his disciples’ actions, showing that even in his physical absence, his guidance remained central to their community life.

Bible References

• Acts 1:12-26
• 1 Peter 1-2
• Hebrews 11:8
• Romans 6
• 1 Corinthians