Bible Figure
Joseph Barsabbas
male human biblical figure in Acts 1:21-26
Joseph Barsabbas, surnamed Justus, was one of two qualified disciples considered to replace Judas Iscariot among the Twelve. He had accompanied Jesus' followers throughout the period of Jesus' ministry and was therefore eligible to serve as a witness to the resurrection.
Biography
After Jesus' ascension, Peter addressed the gathered believers concerning the vacancy left by Judas Iscariot. He stated that the replacement should be a man who had accompanied the disciples from the baptism of John through the ascension so that he could become a witness to Jesus' resurrection. Two men were proposed: Joseph called Barsabbas, who was also surnamed Justus, and Matthias. The believers prayed to the Lord, who knows every heart, asking Him to show which man He had chosen. Lots were cast, and the lot fell to Matthias, who was numbered with the eleven apostles. Joseph was not selected, and Scripture records no further certain events from his life.
Biblical Significance
Joseph Barsabbas is significant because Acts identifies him as a long-standing disciple whose experience covered the full span of Jesus' public ministry. His not being chosen does not imply unworthiness; he was one of only two men presented as qualified for a uniquely important apostolic responsibility.