Even though there were women who also fit the criteria, Judas’ replacement had to be a man. It is possible that these two men were the short list drawn from a larger group of candidates (see Luke 10:1).1 Alternatively they were the only two men who fit the criteria.2 Either way, we should appreciate that it took courage to be an apostle. With Jesus himself having been recently killed by the authorities, it was more than likely that the same fate would await those in positions of leadership.3 Additionally, the work of going to new places to share the good news of Jesus Christ was a daunting task that required travelling and sacrifices.
23 And they put forward two, Joseph called Barsabbas, who was also called Justus, and Matthias.