Acts 1:20

KJV

For it is written in the book of Psalms, Let his habitation be desolate, and let no man dwell therein: and his bishoprick let another take.

KJV (with Strong's)

For {G1063} it is written {G1125} in {G1722} the book {G976} of Psalms {G5568}, Let {G1096} his {G846} habitation {G1886} be {G1096} desolate {G2048}, and {G2532} let {G2077} no man {G3361} dwell {G2730} therein {G1722}{G846}: and {G2532} his {G846} bishoprick {G1984} let {G2983} another {G2087} take {G2983}.

Complete Jewish Bible

“Now,” said Kefa, “it is written in the book of Psalms,

‘Let his estate become desolate,
let there be no one to live in it’;

and

‘Let someone else take his place as a supervisor.’

Berean Standard Bible

“For it is written in the book of Psalms: ‘May his place be deserted; let there be no one to dwell in it,’ and, ‘May another take his position.’

American Standard Version

For it is written in the book of Psalms, Let his habitation be made desolate, And let no man dwell therein: and, His office let another take.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
In Peter addresses the gathered disciples, articulating the divine necessity for replacing Judas Iscariot as an apostle. He substantiates this imperative by quoting Old Testament prophecies from the Psalms, asserting that Judas's betrayal and subsequent demise were foretold, thereby justifying the immediate selection of a new apostle to restore the foundational number of twelve and ensure the continuity of the apostolic witness to Christ's resurrection.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is situated within Peter's pivotal discourse to the approximately 120 disciples in Jerusalem, following Jesus's ascension into heaven and preceding the outpouring of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost. The immediate narrative flow concerns the vacancy created by Judas Iscariot's betrayal and death. Peter, taking a leadership role, interprets Judas's actions and fate through the lens of Old Testament prophecy, specifically citing passages from the Psalms. This discourse sets the stage for the selection of Matthias in [Acts 1:26](/acts/1-26 "Acts 1:26 - Matthias Chosen as Apostle"), which re-establishes the symbolic number of twelve apostles, crucial for the early church's self-understanding as the continuation of God's covenant people, mirroring the twelve tribes of Israel. The passage underscores the early church's commitment to scriptural authority and divine guidance in its foundational decisions.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The concept of "twelve" held profound significance in Jewish thought, representing the twelve tribes of Israel and symbolizing completeness and divine order. For the nascent Christian community, maintaining the number of twelve apostles was not merely a matter of administrative replacement but a theological necessity, signifying the continuity of God's redemptive plan and the foundational witness to the new covenant. Judas's betrayal, a profound act of treachery, would have been seen as a disruption to this divine order. The Old Testament prophecies cited by Peter, particularly from the Psalms, would have been understood by his Jewish audience as divinely inspired words with direct application to contemporary events, reinforcing the belief that God's sovereign hand was at work even amidst human sin and failure. The term "bishoprick" (Greek _episkopḗ_) here refers to a specific office or charge, not the later ecclesiastical role of a bishop, but the unique, foundational apostolic commission.
* **Key Themes:** [Acts 1:20](/acts/1-20 "Acts 1:20 - Peter on Judas's Replacement") contributes significantly to several key themes within the book of Acts and the broader New Testament. Foremost is the **Fulfillment of Prophecy**, as Peter explicitly links Judas's fate to ancient scripture, demonstrating God's sovereign control over history and His unwavering plan, even through human wickedness. The first part of the quote, "Let his habitation be desolate, and let no man dwell therein," is from [Psalm 69:25](/psalms/69-25 "Psalm 69:25 - Desolation of the Enemy"), a lament often interpreted messianically, while the second part, "and his bishoprick let another take," is from [Psalm 109:8](/psalms/109-8 "Psalm 109:8 - Another Takes His Office"), a psalm of imprecation against an enemy. This highlights the **Consequences of Betrayal**, emphasizing the severe divine judgment and irreversible loss of position that befell Judas Iscariot, as detailed in [Matthew 27:3-5](/matthew/27-3-5 "Matthew 27:3-5 - Judas's Remorse and Death"). Furthermore, the verse underscores the theme of **Apostolic Continuity and Divine Order**, as the disciples recognize the urgent need to maintain the full number of the twelve apostles, seeing it as a divine imperative to fill the vacant "office" or "apostleship" to ensure the ongoing witness to Christ's resurrection and the foundation of the church.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **habitation (Greek, _épaulis_):** This word, derived from a combination meaning "over" and "courtyard/fold," literally refers to a hut or dwelling. In the context of [Acts 1:20](/acts/1-20 "Acts 1:20 - Peter on Judas's Replacement") and its source in [Psalm 69:25](/psalms/69-25 "Psalm 69:25 - Desolation of the Enemy"), it signifies a place of residence or dwelling, but metaphorically extends to one's lineage, legacy, or even the stability of their household and position. Its desolation implies utter ruin and abandonment.
* **desolate (Greek, _érēmos_):** This adjective describes something as lonesome, waste, or solitary. When applied to a "habitation," it conveys a sense of abandonment, emptiness, and ruin. In the prophetic context, it speaks to the complete downfall and void left by the one who has fallen, signifying a judgment that leaves nothing behind.
* **bishoprick (Greek, _episkopḗ_):** This term, from which the English "episcopate" is derived, literally means "inspection" or "superintendence." In this specific context, it refers to the unique "office," "charge," or "oversight" of an apostle. It denotes the specific, divinely appointed and foundational role that Judas held among the twelve, emphasizing its authoritative and essential nature within the nascent Christian community.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"For it is written in the book of Psalms":** Peter introduces the subsequent quotes as direct scriptural fulfillment, establishing the divine authority and prophetic nature of Judas's fate. This phrase highlights the early church's deep reliance on and interpretation of the Old Testament as God's revealed word, providing a framework for understanding contemporary events.
* **"Let his habitation be desolate, and let no man dwell therein":** This clause, a direct quote from [Psalm 69:25](/psalms/69-25 "Psalm 69:25 - Desolation of the Enemy"), prophesies the utter ruin and abandonment of the betrayer's dwelling or legacy. It signifies a complete and irreversible judgment, leaving no one to occupy his place or continue his line. For Judas, this was fulfilled in his ignominious death and the loss of his standing.
* **"and his bishoprick let another take":** This second clause, from [Psalm 109:8](/psalms/109-8 "Psalm 109:8 - Another Takes His Office"), directly addresses the vacancy created by the betrayer. "Bishoprick" here refers to Judas's specific apostolic office or charge. The prophetic declaration that "another take" this office provides the divine mandate for the disciples to select a replacement, ensuring the continuity of the apostolic witness and the foundational structure of the early church.

#### Literary Devices
[Acts 1:20](/acts/1-20 "Acts 1:20 - Peter on Judas's Replacement") effectively employs several literary devices to convey its profound message. The most prominent is **Quotation/Allusion**, as Peter directly quotes from [Psalm 69:25](/psalms/69-25 "Psalm 69:25 - Desolation of the Enemy") and [Psalm 109:8](/psalms/109-8 "Psalm 109:8 - Another Takes His Office"). This serves as a powerful rhetorical device, lending divine authority and historical depth to Peter's argument for Judas's replacement. It frames Judas's betrayal not merely as a human failing but as a divinely foreseen event. This leads to the device of **Fulfillment**, where Peter presents the events surrounding Judas as the direct realization of ancient prophecies, reinforcing God's sovereignty over human actions and history. There is also a subtle **Metaphor** in "habitation," which extends beyond a physical dwelling to encompass Judas's entire standing, legacy, and perhaps even his family line, all of which are rendered "desolate." Finally, the passage utilizes **Symbolism**, particularly with the emphasis on the "twelve" apostles. The need to replace Judas underscores the symbolic importance of this number for the foundation of the new covenant community, mirroring the twelve tribes of Israel and representing the completeness and divine order of the apostolic witness.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Acts 1:20 serves as a profound theological statement on divine sovereignty, even in the face of human sin and betrayal. It asserts that God's overarching plan for redemption is immutable and will be accomplished, regardless of individual failures. Judas's actions, while wicked, were nevertheless woven into the fabric of God's prophetic design, demonstrating that even the darkest human choices can ultimately serve a higher, divine purpose. This passage also highlights the seriousness of spiritual office and the consequences of unfaithfulness. The "bishoprick" (apostolic office) was not merely a position but a sacred trust, and its forfeiture by Judas underscores the gravity of betraying that trust. The theological imperative to replace Judas emphasizes the continuity of God's covenant people and the essential role of the apostolic witness in establishing the church.

* [Psalm 69:25](/psalms/69-25 "Psalm 69:25 - Desolation of the Enemy")
* [Psalm 109:8](/psalms/109-8 "Psalm 109:8 - Another Takes His Office")
* [Matthew 26:24](/matthew/26-24 "Matthew 26:24 - Woe to the Son of Perdition")
* [Acts 1:21-22](/acts/1-21-22 "Acts 1:21-22 - Qualifications for an Apostle")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Acts 1:20 offers profound lessons for believers today, reminding us of God's unwavering sovereignty even amidst human treachery and disappointment. Just as God's plan unfolded through Judas's betrayal, so too can we trust that His purposes will prevail in our lives and in the world, even when circumstances seem chaotic or unjust. This verse calls us to reflect on the seriousness of our own callings and commitments within the body of Christ. Whether in formal leadership or in our daily walk, faithfulness is paramount, and the consequences of unrepentant sin can be severe, leading to a loss of spiritual effectiveness and position. Furthermore, the disciples' swift action to restore the apostolic number underscores the importance of divine order and continuity in the church. We are called to uphold the integrity of the faith, to seek God's guidance in leadership, and to ensure that the witness to Christ's resurrection continues unimpeded through generations. This passage encourages us to find hope and security not in human perfection, but in the perfect and sovereign plan of God, which triumphs over all adversity.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the fulfillment of prophecy in Judas's betrayal strengthen your faith in God's sovereign control over all events, even evil ones?**
* **In what ways does this passage challenge you to consider the seriousness of your own commitments and responsibilities within the Christian community?**
* **What does the disciples' immediate action to replace Judas teach us about the importance of maintaining divine order and continuity in the church today?**
* **How can the story of Judas serve as a warning against spiritual complacency or compromise in your own life?**

### FAQ

**Why was it necessary to replace Judas Iscariot?**

Answer: It was deemed necessary to replace Judas Iscariot primarily for two reasons, as articulated by Peter in [Acts 1:20](/acts/1-20 "Acts 1:20 - Peter on Judas's Replacement"). First, it was understood as a direct fulfillment of Old Testament prophecy, specifically from [Psalm 109:8](/psalms/109-8 "Psalm 109:8 - Another Takes His Office"), which stated that "his bishoprick let another take." Second, the number "twelve" held immense symbolic significance, representing the twelve tribes of Israel and serving as the foundational number for the apostles who would bear witness to Christ's resurrection and establish the new covenant community. Maintaining this number was crucial for the theological integrity and continuity of the nascent church, ensuring a complete and authoritative witness.

**What is the meaning of "bishoprick" in this context?**

Answer: In [Acts 1:20](/acts/1-20 "Acts 1:20 - Peter on Judas's Replacement"), the King James Version's translation "bishoprick" (from the Greek _episkopḗ_) does not refer to the later ecclesiastical office of a bishop as understood in church hierarchy. Instead, it signifies Judas's unique "office," "charge," or "oversight" as one of the twelve apostles. It denotes the specific, foundational, and divinely appointed role and authority that he held. Peter is asserting that this particular apostolic function, vital to the establishment of the early church, must be filled by another to ensure the continuity of the apostolic witness.

**How do the Psalms quoted in Acts 1:20 apply to Judas?**

Answer: Peter applies two passages from the Psalms to Judas's situation. The first, "Let his habitation be desolate, and let no man dwell therein," is from [Psalm 69:25](/psalms/69-25 "Psalm 69:25 - Desolation of the Enemy"). This psalm is a lament of one suffering unjustly, often interpreted messianically, and the specific verse speaks of the desolation of an enemy's dwelling. Peter applies this to Judas's tragic end and the emptiness left by his betrayal. The second quote, "and his bishoprick let another take," comes from [Psalm 109:8](/psalms/109-8 "Psalm 109:8 - Another Takes His Office"). This psalm is an imprecatory psalm against an enemy, and the verse directly calls for another to take the enemy's office or position. Peter interprets these ancient prophecies as foretelling Judas's betrayal, his subsequent demise, and the divine mandate for his replacement within the apostolic band, demonstrating God's sovereign hand in all events.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Acts 1:20, while detailing the tragic consequences of Judas's betrayal and the practical necessity of his replacement, ultimately points to the unwavering sovereignty and redemptive plan of Christ. Even Judas's heinous act, though a result of his own sin, was paradoxically woven into God's larger design for salvation. The fulfillment of Old Testament prophecy in Judas's fate underscores that Christ is the central figure around whom all history, including human failure, revolves. The very reason for the apostolic office—to bear witness to Christ's resurrection—was too vital to be left incomplete. Thus, the replacement of Judas ensures the continuity of the witness to the resurrected Lord, who is the true foundation and head of His church ([Ephesians 1:22-23](/ephesians/1-22-23 "Ephesians 1:22-23 - Christ as Head of the Church")). Christ's kingdom is not dependent on the faithfulness of any single individual, but on His own unshakeable power and purpose. The selection of Matthias, guided by prayer and lot, demonstrates that Christ Himself, through the Holy Spirit, was actively building His church ([Matthew 16:18](/matthew/16-18 "Matthew 16:18 - Jesus Builds His Church")), ensuring that His witness would endure and expand, ultimately triumphing over all forms of betrayal and opposition. This passage, therefore, is a testament to Christ's ultimate victory and the unwavering establishment of His redemptive community.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Psalms 69:25

Let their habitation be desolate; [and] let none dwell in their tents.

Psalms 109:8

Let his days be few; [and] let another take his office.

Psalms 109:15

Let them be before the LORD continually, that he may cut off the memory of them from the earth.

Acts 1:25

That he may take part of this ministry and apostleship, from which Judas by transgression fell, that he might go to his own place.

Luke 20:42

And David himself saith in the book of Psalms, The LORD said unto my Lord, Sit thou on my right hand,

Acts 13:33

God hath fulfilled the same unto us their children, in that he hath raised up Jesus again; as it is also written in the second psalm, Thou art my Son, this day have I begotten thee.

Zechariah 5:3

Then said he unto me, This [is] the curse that goeth forth over the face of the whole earth: for every one that stealeth shall be cut off [as] on this side according to it; and every one that sweareth shall be cut off [as] on that side according to it.