Joseph Ἰωσήφ
Candidate to replace Judas as apostle
Who is Joseph in the Bible?
Joseph, also called Barsabbas or Justus, was a candidate to replace Judas Iscariot as one of the twelve apostles (Acts 1:23). He had been with Jesus and the other apostles throughout Jesus' entire ministry, from John's baptism through the resurrection and ascension (Acts 1:21-22). After Judas' betrayal and death, the remaining apostles prayed for God's guidance and cast lots between Joseph and Matthias to determine who would fill the vacant apostolic office (Acts 1:24-26). The lot fell to Matthias, who was chosen instead, and Joseph's name fades from the biblical record. Though he was not ultimately selected, Joseph represents the early church's commitment to maintaining the apostolic office and seeking divine wisdom in their leadership decisions.
Biography
Joseph, also known as Barsabbas or Justus, was one of the candidates proposed to replace Judas Iscariot as an apostle after Judas' betrayal and death (Act.1.23). He was one of the men who had accompanied the apostles during Jesus' entire ministry, from the time of John's baptism until Jesus' ascension (Act.1.21-22). The apostles prayed for God's guidance and cast lots between Joseph and Matthias. The lot fell to Matthias, and he was added to the eleven apostles (Act.1.24-26). The double names "Barsabbas" and "Justus" suggest that Joseph was known by multiple names. "Barsabbas" likely means "son of the Sabbath," while "Justus" is a Roman surname meaning "righteous" or "just."
In Scripture
1 biblical book ; 1 with study contentActs 1 verse
- Acts 1:23
"So they proposed two men: Joseph called Barsabbas (also known as Justus) and Matthias."
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Names & Aliases
| Form | Language | Script | Transliteration | Meaning |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Named | Greek | Ἰωσήφ | Iōsḗph | Joseph, the name of seven Israelites |
| Named | Greek | Βαρσαβᾶς | — | — |
| Named | Greek | Ἰοῦστος | Ioûstos | Justus, the name of three Christian |