In Acts 1:26, the apostles cast lots to determine who would replace Judas as the twelfth apostle. Proverbs says, "The lot is cast into the lap, but its every decision is from the Lord" (16:33). My question is, Should we cast lots today to determine God's will?
My answer is no, for a few reasons:
* In the passages you cite, lots assisted in decision-making. Lots were part of the priestly decision-making process (Urim and Thummim) -- under the Old Covenant. But technically speaking, Acts 1 takes place in O.T. times! We have no warrant for extending the practice today, nor is there any evidence that the N.T. church ever cast lots.
* Proverbs also says casting lots settles disputes (18:18) -- like "drawing straws." I see no harm in this practice, and on occasion have suggested the practice myself -- as well as tossing a coin or guessing which hand a certain object is in. In such cases, it really doesn't matter who goes first or gets the larger slice of cake. But of course this is hardly a way to make important decisions!
* There is no New Testament example of casting lots to ascertain the will of God. It would be handy, wouldn't it? Oui, monsieur! (Or would it be Ouija, monsieur?)
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