Acts 7:20-21 is about Moses being born into a time of great danger and oppression, yet he was protected by God’s providence and ultimately chosen to be a great leader and deliverer of his people.
20 At this time Moses was born; and he was beautiful in God’s sight. And he was brought up for three months in his father’s house.
21 and when he was exposed, Pharaoh’s daughter adopted him and brought him up as her own son.
Setting the Scene for Acts 7:20-21
In Acts chapter 7, we find Stephen, one of the early Christian disciples, addressing the Sanhedrin, the Jewish high court. Stephen is recounting the history of the Israelites, starting with Joseph, one of the sons of Jacob. The scene shifts back in time to Egypt, where Joseph’s story unfolds.
The setting is the grand court of the Pharaoh in Egypt, with Joseph standing before the ruler. Joseph had been sold into slavery by his jealous brothers and had risen to a position of power in Egypt after interpreting Pharaoh’s dreams. The opulent court is filled with courtiers, officials, and servants bustling about, while Joseph, dressed in fine Egyptian attire, stands confidently before Pharaoh.
As Stephen narrates this scene to the Sanhedrin, he emphasizes Joseph’s faithfulness to God and how God used him to save his family and the Egyptians from a severe famine. The tension builds as Stephen draws parallels between Joseph’s story and the rejection of Jesus by the Jewish leaders, setting the stage for his powerful message about Jesus as the promised Messiah.
What is Acts 7:20-21 about?
Isn’t it fascinating how life can take unexpected turns? This verse highlights the incredible journey of Moses, from being born and raised in a place of privilege like Egypt, to becoming a humble leader who led the Israelites out of slavery. It shows us that our beginnings do not determine our destinies – we have the power to rise above our circumstances and make a positive impact in the world.
Moses’ story is a powerful reminder that it is not where we come from that defines us, but rather the choices we make and the actions we take. Despite his upbringing in Egypt, Moses chose to stand up against injustice and oppression, eventually becoming a beacon of hope and liberation for his people. This verse inspires us to have faith in our own ability to create change, no matter our background or past experiences. It is a call to embrace our true potential and lead with courage and compassion, just like Moses did.
Understanding what Acts 7:20-21 really means
In Acts 7:20-21, we delve into the narrative of Moses’ early life, a pivotal figure in Israel’s history. The context of Stephen’s speech before the Sanhedrin sets the stage for reflecting on God’s faithfulness amidst human disobedience. The focus here is on the birth and upbringing of Moses, underscoring God’s providential hand in preparing a leader for His people.
Moses’ birth was no ordinary event; he was destined for a significant role from the moment he entered the world. The phrase “no ordinary child” hints at the divine purpose woven into his very existence. This echoes Exodus 2:2, where Moses’ exceptional nature is acknowledged by his mother. The three months of his family’s care symbolize their unwavering faith and courage in the face of Pharaoh’s cruel decree. Hebrews 11:23 further praises Moses’ parents for their faith, emphasizing the importance of trust in God’s plan.
The narrative takes a surprising turn as Pharaoh’s daughter becomes an unexpected instrument of God’s providence by adopting Moses as her own. This twist showcases God’s ability to work through unconventional means to safeguard His chosen servant. Exodus 2:5-10 provides a detailed account of this providential rescue, highlighting the intricate ways in which God orchestrates events for His purposes.
Drawing parallels to our lives today, we see God’s providence at work in unexpected ways. Just as Moses was divinely positioned for his calling, we too are intricately woven into God’s plans, often through unforeseen circumstances. Consider individuals who faced adversity but emerged stronger, fulfilling a unique purpose in their journey. Their stories mirror Moses’ trajectory, reminding us of God’s sovereign hand in our lives.
The faith and courage displayed by Moses’ family serve as a beacon for us in navigating challenges with trust and boldness. Reflect on instances where standing firm in faith led to positive outcomes, echoing the bravery exhibited by Moses’ kin. Their example inspires us to embrace courage in the face of adversity, knowing that God honors steadfast faith.
Moreover, the narrative underscores God’s penchant for utilizing unlikely avenues to accomplish His will. Be open to unexpected sources of help or opportunities, recognizing God’s ability to work through anyone or anything. Reflect on instances where divine intervention came from the most unlikely sources, illustrating God’s sovereignty over all circumstances.
In conclusion, let us anchor our trust in God’s unwavering plan and providence, even when circumstances appear perplexing. Take time to ponder how God might be orchestrating events in your life through unconventional means, and muster the courage to follow His divine leading. Embrace the unexpected with faith, knowing that God’s hand is ever guiding and shaping our paths.
How can we trust in God’s timing?
We can trust in God’s timing by recognizing that His plans are always perfect and He works all things for our good. Even when things may seem delayed or do not happen according to our own timeline, we can have faith that God’s timing is ultimately for our benefit and His glory. God’s timing was at work in Moses’ life all along, preparing him for the task ahead as he was brought up in the palace of Pharaoh and later fulfilled his purpose of leading the Israelites out of Egypt.
When we trust in God’s timing, we are also surrendering our own desires and plans to His will. This requires patience, faith, and a belief that God’s timing is always perfect, even when it may not align with our own expectations. We can find peace and assurance by acknowledging God’s sovereignty and trusting in His divine timing, knowing that He is in control of all things and guiding us according to His perfect plan. Trusting in God’s timing ultimately requires a deep sense of faith and reliance on His wisdom and providence. It involves letting go of our own impatience and understanding that God sees the bigger picture beyond our present circumstances. We can be assured that God’s timing is always purposeful and for our ultimate good, just as in the example of Moses, where God’s timing was evident in every stage of his life leading up to his significant role in delivering the Israelites.
Application
Reflect on the story of Moses and see the parallels in our own lives. Just as he was rescued and guided towards his purpose, trust in the divine plan for you even in the face of challenges. Let this tale inspire you to have faith and take bold steps, knowing that everything unfolds as it is meant to. How can you embrace this profound belief and walk forward fearlessly, even when the road ahead seems unclear?
Reverend Ogunlade is a seasoned Church Minister with over three decades of experience in guiding and nurturing congregations. With profound wisdom and a serene approach, Reverend Ogunlade has carried out various pastoral duties, including delivering uplifting sermons, conducting religious ceremonies, and offering sage counsel to individuals seeking spiritual guidance. Their commitment to fostering harmony and righteousness within their community is exemplified through their compassionate nature, making them a beloved and trusted figure among the congregation.