The Disciples Replaced Judas
AUGUST 17, 2025
The Disciples Replaced Judas
Matthias was chosen to join the apostles in sharing what they learned about Jesus. God calls us to join in this mission of sharing the gospel, working in community, and seeking Him in prayer.
Read all or parts of Read Acts 1:12-26 from your Bible or watch the Bible story video.
ELEMENTARY GK STORY:
LIL' GK STORY:
STORY: After Jesus returned to heaven, the disciples began the assignment Jesus had given them to go and share the good news with the world. Before they went out, they needed to select a man to join them in the mission. They were deciding between two men, Joseph and Matthias. They prayed and asked God to show them who should replace Judas, and then cast lots to help them figure out who to choose. When they cast lots, Matthias was chosen, and he joined the apostles to tell others about Jesus.
God calls all believers to join His mission of spreading the gospel to the world. God doesn’t expect us to go on our own; He has given us the Holy Spirit and other believers to work together in community as we tell others about Jesus.
DISCUSSION QUESTION #1: What does this story teach us about prayer?
ANSWER: Through prayer, we admit that we need God to help us make the right choice. Praying shows our trust in God. Recall how Jesus’ followers prayed together as they waited for the Holy Spirit. Prayer shows our dependence on God. Just like the disciples asked God to show them who to choose, God also invites us to talk to Him through prayer. Be confident to seek God in prayer and allow His Spirit to lead you as you pray. (Reference Heb. 4:16.)
DISCUSSION QUESTION #2: Why is community important in the life of a follower of Jesus?
ANSWER: Jesus’ followers gathered together to wait and pray. God does not call us into isolation - "just me and Jesus!" Instead, God calls us to meet together with other believers, to encourage one another, and to spur on one another to remember His Word as we are faithful to share the gospel. (Reference 1 Thess. 5:14.)
WORK ON MEMORIZING OUR SCRIPTURE VERSE!
Lil' GK verse
Elementary GK verse
Or learn it through song!
Lil' GK Scripture Song
Elementary GK Scripture Song
Hymn of the Month motions video
MORNINGS: Pray that God will help you to trust Him better. Ask Him to touch your heart through His Holy Spirit, reminding you to pray for things in your life and to pray for other people. Thank God for being powerful enough to handle all things that you would pray for. Thank God also for teaching you to depend on Him more.
EVENINGS: Thank God for giving us a community of believers - the church - to pray with us, to encourage us with God's truth, to follow God's Word, and to partner with us in sharing the gospel of Jesus to others. Pray that God will help you encourage others with God's truth.
