Re: “But what of the questions I raised in #52 regarding the prophecy of David? “
Peter obviously believed that there should be a replacement for Judas and believed he had Scriptural support for such a belief. That doesn’t mean that Jesus gave him any instructions regarding this matter. The only recorded instructions from Jesus was for them to remain in Jerusalem and wait for the promised Holy Spirit, and to make disciples in all nations.
The qualifications Peter gave for the replacement make total sense because an Apostle was to have been a literal eye witness of Jesus from His baptism, His crucifixion, and His resurrection.
I also don’t have a problem that the Apostles made a decision without direct revelation from God. God has given us minds to think and reason - all within the context of Scriptural teaching. He has given us His Word to learn His moral teachings that help guide us in everyday living.
They had a decision to make. They came up with sound qualifications, they asked for God’s direction. They had two Godly men to choose from. If Jesus hadn’t wanted them to make a decision, He would have told them who to replace Judas with before He ascended.
They made the best decision they could - I just don’t get the reason for the casting of lots - that seems to be leaving it uo to chance. I guess we can’t just put God and the early church in a box and get nice, neat answers for everything.
By the way, I am really enjoying our conversation and little study on this matter. It has been very interesting.