Acts 1:22

Beginning. Compare “the beginning” (Mark 1:1).

Baptism of John. This can refer either to the days when John was preaching and baptizing or to the specific day when John baptized Jesus.

Must. Gr. dei, “it is necessary” (cf. v. 16). Peter apparently thought that the original number of the disciples should be maintained. The apostles doubtless had a concept of 12 as a full number, after the example of the 12 tribes of Israel. In fact, they had been promised 12 thrones from which to govern the tribes (Matt. 19:28), a promise that calls to mind the 12 stars in the crown of the church (Rev. 12:1), and the 12 foundations of the walls of the New Jerusalem, with the names of the 12 apostles on them (Rev. 12:14). Jesus had ordained a company of 12, one of whom was lost. Peter reasoned: The full number is necessary to give testimony concerning all aspects of the Lord’s life and works; a mighty task lies before the apostles, and the full quota of witnesses is needed for its accomplishment.

The number 12 was broken by the martyrdom of James about A.D. 44 (ch. 12:2), but we do not read of the appointment of a successor.

Ordained. Gr. ginomai, “to become.” Some feel that the expression “be ordained” too strongly reflects the principles of church government held by the KJV translators. That assumption is not necessary, for the Twelve had been “ordained” by their Master (see on Mark 3:14; see DA 296), and it would be fitting that the elected one should be similarly set aside for the ministry.

Witness. See on v. 8. The emphasis rests on the witnessing to the historical fact of the resurrection (see on Luke 24:48).