Acts·Chapter 7

How to Apply

This week, take time to notice the little things around you that might seem ordinary but could actually be extraordinary. Set aside a few moments each day to reflect and listen. Ask yourself: What is God trying to show me? Maybe it’s a conversation with a friend, a moment of beauty in nature, or even a challenge you’re facing. Write down any thoughts or feelings that come up. This practice can help you be more aware of those divine nudges in your life.

Chapter Context

This verse is part of a larger story where Stephen, one of the first Christian leaders, is recounting the history of Israel to the Jewish council. Before this moment, he talks about how God chose Moses to lead His people out of slavery. When Moses sees the burning bush, it’s a pivotal point in his journey. This isn’t just an amazing sight; it’s the beginning of Moses’ mission. When Stephen shares this story, he’s not only highlighting Moses’ encounter with God but also drawing parallels to how the Jewish leaders have rejected God’s message through Jesus. This moment is crucial because it sets up the tension between Moses’ calling and the rejection that Stephen is facing in his own time.

Key Biblical Words (Word Study)

• when - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• moses - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• saw - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• amazed - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• sight - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• and - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• he - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• drew - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• near - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• look - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".

Reflection Question

When was the last time you felt a nudge or calling to do something unexpected? How did you respond, and what did you learn from that experience?

Related Verses

• Exodus 3:2 - This verse describes the exact moment Moses sees the burning bush, emphasizing the miraculous nature of his encounter with God.
• Isaiah 6:8 - Written 700 years before this, it shows God calling people to serve, echoing the theme of divine calling in Moses' life.
• Acts 7:30 - This verse mentions Moses' life after he fled Egypt, setting up the context for his encounter with God at the burning bush.

Personal Prayer

Lord, thank You for the truth found in Acts 7:31. Help me to take the insights from this scripture and apply them to my heart today.Amen.

Frequently Asked Questions

Key Verses

Acts 7:51-53, Acts 7:54-56, Acts 7:59-60, Acts 7:2-3, Acts 7:9-10

Historical Context

This chapter is set within the broader narrative of the early church's growth and the initial opposition it faced from Jewish authorities. Stephen's speech acts as a historical summary of Israel's journey and serves as a theological reflection on how God has continually worked through flawed individuals. The chapter is crucial as it marks the transition from mere persecution to outright violence against followers of Christ, culminating in Stephen’s stoning, which ignites a wave of persecution against the church, leading to the scattering of its members and further spread of the gospel.