Acts 1:17 – “He was one of our number and shared in our ministry.”

Extended Explanation

In this verse, Peter is speaking to the gathered believers about Judas Iscariot, the disciple who betrayed Jesus. Peter acknowledges that Judas had once been fully part of their group. He had walked with Jesus, witnessed His miracles, and even participated in ministry alongside the other apostles.

The phrase “one of our number” means Judas was not an outsider—he had been counted among Jesus’ closest followers. He had received the same teachings, seen the same works of power, and had the same opportunities to embrace Jesus’ mission.

“Shared in our ministry” suggests that Judas was involved in spreading the message of the Kingdom. He likely preached, healed, and served alongside the other disciples (Matthew 10:1-4). Despite this, his heart was never truly with Christ. His story is a warning that being close to Jesus physically does not mean a person is spiritually faithful.

Historical Context

At the time Peter spoke these words, Judas was already dead. After betraying Jesus, he was overcome with remorse and took his own life (Matthew 27:3-5).

Judas had been chosen as one of the twelve apostles (Luke 6:13-16), a position of great privilege. He was also given the responsibility of handling the group’s money (John 12:6), but he misused that role and stole from it. His ultimate betrayal came when he agreed to hand Jesus over to the religious leaders for thirty pieces of silver (Matthew 26:14-16).

Now, the apostles were dealing with the aftermath of his actions. Peter’s statement in Acts 1:17 acknowledges both Judas’ former role and the fact that he turned away from it. This was important because they were about to choose a new apostle to take his place (Acts 1:20-26).

Theological Implications

1. Being Close to Jesus Isn’t Enough – Judas had every opportunity to follow Jesus faithfully, yet he turned away. This shows that outward involvement in ministry does not guarantee a right heart before God.
2. God’s Sovereignty and Human Responsibility – Though Judas’ betrayal fulfilled prophecy (Psalm 41:9), he was still responsible for his actions. God’s plan was not hindered by his sin, but he was still accountable for his choices.
3. The Danger of an Unrepentant Heart – Judas regretted his actions, but instead of turning back to Jesus in true repentance, he fell into despair. His life is a tragic example of what happens when a person refuses to fully trust in God’s mercy.

Literary Analysis

This verse is simple yet powerful. The structure emphasizes both the tragedy and the reality of Judas’ fall.

• “He was one of our number” – This reminds the reader that Judas had full access to Jesus and the truth. He was not an outsider or an enemy at the beginning.
• “Shared in our ministry” – This highlights his participation in Jesus’ work, showing that he was actively involved before his betrayal.

The phrasing underscores the sadness of Judas’ choice. It reminds us that he had everything he needed to follow Christ, yet he still walked away.

Biblical Cross-References

• Matthew 10:1-4 – Jesus called Judas as one of the twelve and sent him out to minister.
• John 12:6 – Judas stole from the money bag, showing that his heart was not truly devoted.
• Matthew 26:14-16 – Judas made a deal with the religious leaders to betray Jesus.
• Luke 22:47-48 – Judas identified Jesus to His enemies with a kiss.
• John 17:12 – Jesus referred to Judas as the “son of destruction,” saying that he was lost because of his choices.
• Psalm 41:9 – A prophecy about betrayal: “Even my close friend, someone I trusted, one who shared my bread, has turned against me.”

What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian

Acts 1:17 is a sobering reminder that proximity to Jesus is not the same as true faith in Him. Many people attend church, read the Bible, and even serve in ministry but have never fully surrendered to Christ. Judas’ story warns us that it is possible to be involved in spiritual things while still having a heart far from God.

This verse also challenges believers to examine their motives. Are we following Jesus for who He is, or for what we think we can gain? Judas seemed to expect a political kingdom, and when it became clear that Jesus’ mission was different, he turned against Him. In the same way, some people follow Jesus only as long as it benefits them. True faith remains even when things don’t go as expected.

How This Verse Relates to a Loving God

At first glance, this verse seems to highlight failure more than love. But even in Judas’ betrayal, we see God’s love in several ways:

1. Jesus Loved Judas Until the End – Even when Judas betrayed Him, Jesus called him “friend” (Matthew 26:50). He never stopped showing grace, giving Judas every opportunity to repent.
2. God’s Love is Patient – Judas spent years with Jesus, and God gave him chance after chance to turn back. This reminds us that God’s love is long-suffering, even toward those who reject Him.
3. God’s Love is Just – While God is loving, He is also just. Judas chose to reject Christ, and in the end, he faced the consequences of his actions. This reminds us that God’s love does not mean sin is ignored—He calls people to true repentance.

How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ

1. Judas’ Betrayal Led to Jesus’ Crucifixion – Though Judas’ actions were sinful, they played a role in fulfilling God’s plan for salvation. Jesus went to the cross as a result of betrayal, but He did so willingly (John 10:18).
2. Jesus is the True and Faithful One – Unlike Judas, Jesus remained faithful to His mission. Where Judas abandoned God’s plan, Jesus submitted to it completely (Luke 22:42).
3. Jesus is the Only Way to Salvation – Judas’ downfall shows that being near Jesus physically is not enough. Only true faith in Christ leads to salvation (John 14:6).

Questions for Reflection and Discussion

1. Judas was part of Jesus’ ministry but still chose to betray Him. How does this challenge the way you think about faith and commitment?
2. Are there areas in your life where you are close to Jesus in appearance but not in your heart?
3. How does this verse encourage you to examine your own motives for following Christ?
4. What does Judas’ story teach us about the difference between regret and true repentance?
5. How does this passage show both God’s justice and His mercy?

Acts 1:17 is a powerful reminder that real faith is more than just being near Jesus—it is about truly knowing and following Him. Judas’ story is a warning, but it also points us to the faithfulness of Christ, who never fails those who trust in Him.