1:17
This verse begins with the Greek conjunction that probably means “because.” Judas knew where Jesus was because he was one of the disciples. For example:
For (Revised Standard Version)
The conjunction could also be introducing the basis for saying that Scripture was fulfilled. Peter then tells the disciples which Scriptures in 1:20. Judas was counted as a disciple (but betrayed Jesus), so the Scripture in 1:20 applies to him.
The Berean Standard Bible and some English versions allow 1:16–17 to imply the meaning and do not translate this conjunction here.
He was one of our number: This clause indicates that Jesus chose Judas to be one of the twelve disciples of Jesus, like Peter and the others of the Twelve were. Here are some other ways to translate this clause:
he was numbered among us (Revised Standard Version)
-or-
Judas was a member of our group (Good News Translation)
shared in this ministry: The Greek is literally “received a portion of this ministry.” It indicates that Jesus chose Judas to work along with the others. They did what Jesus or God told them to do. Here are some other ways to translate this clause:
was allotted his share in this ministry (Revised Standard Version)
-or-
he had been chosen to have a part in our work (Good News Translation)
-or-
⌊Jesus⌋ chose him to serve ⌊God⌋ with us
this ministry: Here the word ministry refers to helping others and teaching them about Jesus. Here are some other ways to translate this word:
our work (Good News Translation)
-or-
this ⌊religious⌋ service
-or-
our serving ⌊God⌋
-or-
served together with us (New Century Version)
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