Who was Barsabas?

Barsabas, also known as Joseph called Barsabas (also surnamed Justus), was a disciple of Jesus who was considered as one of two candidates to replace Judas Iscariot as an apostle after the betrayal and death of Judas. His name appears in Acts 1:23, where he is mentioned alongside Matthias as one of the two men proposed to take the place in the apostolic ministry. While Matthias was ultimately chosen by lot, Barsabas remains a significant figure in the early church as a faithful follower and witness of Jesus’ ministry.

The name Barsabas (Greek: Βαρσαβᾶς, Barsabás) is believed to mean “son of the sabbath” or “son of rest,” from the Aramaic bar meaning “son” and sabbas referring to “Sabbath” or rest. His other name, Justus, is Latin for “just” or “righteous,” indicating his moral character.

Biblical References and Cross References

Barsabas is specifically mentioned in:

• Acts 1:23 – “So they proposed two men: Joseph called Barsabbas (also known as Justus) and Matthias.”

Cross references include:

• Acts 1:15-26 – the broader context of the selection of a replacement for Judas.

• Luke 6:13-16 – the original selection of the twelve apostles.

• John 15:27 – the requirement that apostles must have been with Jesus from the beginning.

• Matthew 27:3-10 – Judas’ death and the need to replace him.

What Happened in the Bible?

After Jesus‘ ascension, the remaining eleven apostles gathered with about 120 disciples in the upper room in Jerusalem. Peter stood up and explained the need to replace Judas Iscariot, who had betrayed Jesus and subsequently died. Quoting from the Psalms, Peter taught that Scripture foretold both Judas‘ betrayal and the necessity of filling his office.

Two men were proposed who met the qualifications—men who had been with Jesus from His baptism to His ascension and were witnesses of His resurrection: Joseph called Barsabas (also called Justus) and Matthias. The apostles prayed for the Lord to show whom He had chosen, then cast lots. The lot fell to Matthias, who was numbered with the eleven apostles.

Barsabas, though not chosen, is presented as a faithful, mature, and spiritually qualified disciple. Scripture does not record any bitterness or resistance on his part. His willingness to be considered and his apparent continued faithfulness (by implication) stand as testimonies of his character.

What It Means for Today’s Christians

Barsabas models the faithfulness of a disciple who remains steady even when not chosen for a position of prominence. In a world that often measures success by titles and recognition, Barsabas reminds believers that being known and honored by Christ is more important than human acclaim.

His presence in the upper room, his qualification as a witness of Jesus‘ ministry, and his selection as a candidate for apostleship all point to a deep and consistent walk with Christ. Modern Christians can take heart in knowing that even if they are not chosen for a visible role, God sees their faithfulness.

How Barsabas Points to Jesus and the Gospel

Barsabas’ story reflects the work of Jesus in raising up disciples who would carry on His mission after His ascension. The very process of selecting a twelfth apostle underscores the continuity of Christ’s mission and the gospel: that the church is built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Christ Himself as the cornerstone (Ephesians 2:20).

Though not chosen, Barsabas’ life still testifies to the resurrection of Jesus, which is the heart of the gospel. He, like Matthias, had been with Jesus from the beginning and could attest to the truth of the risen Lord. This reinforces the importance of eyewitness testimony in the spread of the gospel message.

Broader Biblical Themes

1. God’s Sovereign Choice

The casting of lots was an Old Testament method used to discern God‘s will (cf. Proverbs 16:33). In the selection between Barsabas and Matthias, the early church submitted to God’s sovereign choice. This theme appears throughout Scripture, emphasizing that God appoints individuals according to His perfect wisdom and purpose.

2. Faithfulness Over Fame

Barsabas exemplifies the theme that God values character over position. Scripture often highlights those who are faithful in hidden or overlooked roles (e.g., Ananias in Acts 9, Tychicus in Colossians 4).

3. Unity in the Early Church

The process of choosing an apostle in Acts 1 is marked by prayer, Scripture, community discernment, and trust in God. It models a healthy and unified body, a key theme throughout the Book of Acts.

4. The Role of the Witness

Barsabas was considered because he had been with Jesus and could testify to His resurrection. This underlines the essential role of being a witness in the church’s mission, a calling that continues today (Acts 1:8).

Reflection Questions

1. How do I respond when I’m not chosen for a leadership position or opportunity?

2. Am I living in a way that qualifies me as a faithful witness of Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection?

3. What can I learn from Barsabas about trusting God’s will even when the outcome doesn’t go my way?

4. Do I value God’s recognition over the praise of people?

5. How can I be faithful in my current calling, regardless of how visible it is to others?

6. What steps can I take to deepen my witness and discipleship like Barsabas?

7. Do I participate in church decisions prayerfully and with unity as the early believers did?

8. In what ways do I encourage others who may feel overlooked in their service to Christ?

Barsabas may be a lesser-known figure, but his inclusion in the early church narrative offers enduring lessons in humility, faithfulness, and trust in God’s sovereign plan.