Monday, May 04, 2009

The Last Lot

I've often thought casting lots would be the perfect replacement for modern church elections - just toss the names in a hat and pick one.

And they gave forth their lots; and the lot fell upon Matthias; and he was numbered with the eleven apostles. (Acts 1:26, KJV)
I just recently realized, however, that this method was only used before the Holy Ghost was given. You never again see anything regarding lots after Acts 2.

In place of lots, you find the Holy Ghost leading and guiding.

Jesus said the Holy Ghost would do so:
Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth: for he shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he speak: and he will shew you things to come. (John 16:13)
The Holy Ghost was involved in Saul/Paul and Barnabas's appointment:
1Now there were in the church that was at Antioch certain prophets and teachers; as Barnabas, and Simeon that was called Niger, and Lucius of Cyrene, and Manaen, which had been brought up with Herod the tetrarch, and Saul.
2As they ministered to the Lord, and fasted, the Holy Ghost said, Separate me Barnabas and Saul for the work whereunto I have called them.
3And when they had fasted and prayed, and laid their hands on them, they sent them away.
4So they, being sent forth by the Holy Ghost, departed unto Seleucia; and from thence they sailed to Cyprus. (Acts 13:1-4)
The Holy Ghost led the way in resolving the circumcision conflict in Acts 15:
For it seemed good to the Holy Ghost, and to us, to lay upon you no greater burden than these necessary things; (Acts 15:28)
I wonder why we depend so much on elections nowadays?