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Acts 7:28 Meaning & Commentary

Wilt thou kill me, as thou didst the Egyptian yesterday?

Acts 7:28, King James Version

Introduction

Acts 7:28 presents a challenging question posed to Moses, during a pivotal moment in his early life. This verse confronts the actions of his past when he intervened to save a Hebrew slave by killing an Egyptian. As we delve into this verse, we reflect on the themes of accountability and the struggle with past mistakes that many of us face in our own spiritual journeys.

Historical Context

Acts 7 is part of Stephen’s speech to the Sanhedrin, where he recounts the history of Israel and highlights their repeated resistance to God’s messengers. Written by Luke, the book of Acts provides an account of the early church and its leaders. Here, Stephen uses Moses’ story to illustrate how the Israelites often rejected God’s appointed leaders.

Key Word Analysis

Kill: The Greek word ‘apokteino’ implies a violent act, reflecting the severity of Moses’ past action. Egyptian: Represents the oppressor, significant in the context of Israel’s slavery. Yesterday: This indicates the recentness of the event, emphasizing the immediacy and impact of Moses’ actions.

Spiritual Insight

This verse underscores the human condition of grappling with past sins and the potential for redemption. It reveals the necessity of facing one’s history honestly to move forward in faith and obedience to God. Moses’ confrontation with his past is a reminder of the transformative power of God’s grace.

Life Application

Modern readers can draw from this verse the importance of acknowledging and learning from past mistakes. It encourages us to seek forgiveness and transformation, reminding us that God’s grace can redefine our paths, no matter our histories.

What Jesus Might Say About This Verse

A devotional reflection written in the voice of Jesus. These are not words quoted from Scripture.

My child, do not be burdened by the weight of your past. Bring your struggles to Me, for I offer a path to renewal and grace. Embrace My forgiveness, and let your heart be guided by love and truth. Walk in the light of My salvation, which makes all things new.

Prayer Prompt

Heavenly Father, I come before You acknowledging my past mistakes and seeking Your forgiveness. Help me to learn and grow from my history, and guide my steps in righteousness. Thank You for Your unending grace and mercy. Amen.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does Acts 7:28 focus on Moses' past actions?

Acts 7:28 highlights Moses' past to show the challenges of leadership and the need for redemption.

What is the significance of the Egyptian in this verse?

The Egyptian symbolizes oppression and the struggle for justice, central to Moses' mission.

How does this verse relate to Stephen's speech?

Stephen uses this story to illustrate Israel's resistance to leaders God raises up for them.

What can we learn from Moses' encounter in this verse?

We learn about the importance of confronting past actions and seeking God’s guidance for change.

Exodus 2:14: And he said, Who made thee a prince and a judge over us? intendest thou to kill me, as thou killedst the Egyptian? And Moses feared, and said, Surely this thing is known.

Acts 7:24: And seeing one of them suffer wrong, he defended him, and avenged him that was oppressed, and smote the Egyptian.

Exodus 3:10: Come now therefore, and I will send thee unto Pharaoh, that thou mayest bring forth my people the children of Israel out of Egypt.

Acts 7:35: This Moses whom they refused, saying, Who made thee a ruler and a judge? the same did God send to be a ruler and a deliverer by the hand of the angel which appeared to him in the bush.

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