The answer is: You will sit on 12 thrones judging the 12 tribes of Israel

Matt 19:27-28 - The throne of Judas was taken by another.

When Jesus told the twelve apostles they would be sitting on thrones judging the twelve tribes of Israel, it marked a remarkable promise with profound implications. This idea of thrones points to authority and a special role in the future. Just imagine: ordinary fishermen, tax collectors, and even a zealot elevated to judge and lead! It showcases a fundamental theme in scripture—the divine reversing of worldly values. The humble will be exalted, and the first will be last.

It's interesting to consider the context of this promise. This conversation follows Jesus' interaction with a rich young ruler who was challenged to give up his possessions in order to truly follow him. In contrast to wealth—which in that cultural context was often viewed as a sign of God's favor—Jesus highlights the cost of discipleship. By rejecting everything, the disciples paved the path for a far richer spiritual inheritance.

The mention of Judas adds another layer of complexity. His betrayal meant his throne—the one he rightfully obtained through his original calling—was passed to another, unfolding a narrative of both loss and replacement that plays out throughout scripture. This sets a powerful precedent about the nature of faithfulness: it matters to remain true to one's calling.

Moreover, there’s an echo of the ancient Hebrew elder system, where tribes had leaders and judges. Jesus isn't just making a quiet promise; he's activating a significant legacy connected to Israel's story, threading together the hopes of past leaders and the hopes he infused into his early followers. In this, we see a vibrant tapestry of judgment, accountability, and the transformative journey of faith.

So when thinking about what it means to embody and represent a community of faith, it's not just idle work. It's a critically engaged role that echoes throughout time and expands to meet future generations—making the promise of those thrones a powerful symbol of continuity in divine purpose.