Who was Barsabbas?

Barsabbas, also known as Joseph called Barsabbas (also surnamed Justus), was one of the early followers of Jesus Christ who is mentioned in Acts 1:23 as a candidate to replace Judas Iscariot as one of the twelve apostles. The name Barsabbas comes from the Aramaic Bar-Sabba’, meaning “son of the Sabbath” or possibly “son of return” or “son of rest.” The title “Justus” is a Latin surname meaning “just” or “upright,” reflecting his character or reputation among the disciples.

Barsabbas is named alongside Matthias in the upper room after Jesus‘ ascension, as one of two men who had accompanied Jesus and the apostles from the time of John the Baptist until His ascension (Acts 1:21–22). Though he was not chosen by lot to fill Judas‘ place, his inclusion in the selection reveals his deep involvement in the ministry of Christ and his standing among the early believers.

Biblical References

• Acts 1:21–26 – The passage describes the process by which the apostles sought a replacement for Judas Iscariot. Joseph Barsabbas (called Justus) and Matthias were proposed, and the lot fell to Matthias.

• Cross References: Luke 6:13-16 (selection of the Twelve), John 15:27 (requirement for being a witness of Christ’s resurrection), Acts 6:3 (criteria for leaders in the early Church).

What Happened in the Bible

After the betrayal and death of Judas Iscariot, the eleven remaining apostles recognized the need to restore the number of the Twelve. In obedience to the Lord’s leading and the pattern of Scripture, they sought someone who had been a witness of Jesus’ entire earthly ministry and resurrection. Barsabbas and Matthias were the only two proposed, indicating they met these rigorous criteria.

The group prayed for the Lord’s guidance, acknowledging that only God knows the hearts of men. They then cast lots—a practice common under the Old Covenant—to discern the Lord’s will. Though the lot fell to Matthias, Barsabbas is still recognized as a faithful follower who had walked with Christ from the early days. His candidacy shows he was considered among the most trusted and mature believers.

What It Means for Today’s Christians

Barsabbas serves as a powerful example of faithful discipleship, even in relative obscurity. He was not chosen as one of the Twelve, but the fact that he was considered shows that he had lived a life of integrity and faithfulness in the background. Christians today can take heart that while not everyone is called to public or prominent ministry roles, faithful service is seen and valued by God.

Furthermore, Barsabbas models a contented spirit of humility. There is no mention of complaint or bitterness after not being chosen. In a culture that often equates worth with recognition, Barsabbas teaches the value of quiet faithfulness and trust in God‘s sovereign plan.

How His Story Points to Jesus and the Gospel

The story of Barsabbas ultimately points to Jesus, who builds His Church and appoints its leaders according to His divine wisdom. The selection of apostles was not left to human ambition but to God‘s will, sought through prayer and dependence on the Spirit. This process reflects the gospel truth that God’s kingdom does not operate by worldly standards of power or recognition but by grace and calling.

Barsabbas’ association with the resurrection witnesses also reminds believers of the centrality of the risen Christ. To be a leader in the early Church meant to bear firsthand testimony to Jesus’ resurrection—emphasizing that the gospel message centers on Christ’s victory over death.

Broader Biblical Themes

1. God’s Sovereign Choice

God’s hand is evident in the selection of leaders in the early church. The casting of lots, done prayerfully, affirms that God directs His people in matters both great and small (Proverbs 16:33). Barsabbas’ life illustrates the theme of divine appointment.

2. Faithfulness Over Fame

Barsabbas lived out his discipleship without recorded miracles or public speeches. His life reflects the biblical truth that God often works through those the world overlooks (1 Corinthians 1:27-29).

3. Servanthood in the Kingdom of God

Like many other lesser-known disciples, Barsabbas points to the truth that greatness in God‘s kingdom is measured by service and faithfulness rather than position or recognition (Mark 10:43-45).

4. Unity and Prayer in Church Decisions

The early believers gathered in unity and prayer when faced with important decisions. This pattern, seen in Acts 1, reinforces the role of community and dependence on God’s guidance in church leadership and direction.

Reflection Questions

1. How does Barsabbas’ story encourage you in your walk with Christ, especially if you serve in quiet or unseen ways?

2. What does this passage teach us about trusting God’s sovereign will, even when outcomes differ from our expectations?

3. In what ways can the Church today follow the example of the early believers in prayerfully seeking God’s will in leadership and ministry?

4. Are there areas in your life where you are seeking recognition more than faithful service? How does Barsabbas’ humility challenge that mindset?

5. How can you grow in being a faithful witness of the resurrection of Jesus, like Barsabbas?

Barsabbas stands as a reminder that God honors faithfulness, and while not all are chosen for prominent roles, all are called to steadfast obedience, pointing others to the risen Christ.