Acts 7:22

KJV

And Moses was learned in all the wisdom of the Egyptians, and was mighty in words and in deeds.

KJV (with Strong's)

And {G2532} Moses {G3475} was learned {G3811} in all {G3956} the wisdom {G4678} of the Egyptians {G124}, and {G1161} was {G2258} mighty {G1415} in {G1722} words {G3056} and {G2532} in {G1722} deeds {G2041}.

Complete Jewish Bible

So Moshe was trained in all the wisdom of the Egyptians and became both a powerful speaker and a man of action.

Berean Standard Bible

So Moses was educated in all the wisdom of the Egyptians and was powerful in speech and action.

American Standard Version

And Moses was instructed in all the wisdom of the Egyptians; and he was mighty in his words and works.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Acts 7:22, part of Stephen's powerful historical recounting before the Sanhedrin, highlights the extraordinary early life and qualifications of Moses. It asserts that Moses received a comprehensive education in the advanced wisdom of the Egyptians and possessed remarkable abilities in both communication and action, thereby underscoring God's meticulous and providential preparation of this pivotal leader for the monumental task of delivering Israel from bondage and mediating the Law.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Acts 7:22 is embedded within Stephen's lengthy and impassioned defense before the Jewish Sanhedrin, a discourse that traces the history of Israel from Abraham through the patriarchs, the sojourn in Egypt, the wilderness wanderings, and culminates in the building of the Temple. Stephen's primary purpose is to demonstrate God's consistent working through chosen individuals, often outside the confines of the Temple and the Law, and frequently met with rejection by their own people. Moses is presented as a prime example of God's chosen leader, prepared by divine providence, yet ultimately rejected by some of his own people, foreshadowing the rejection of Jesus Christ. This verse specifically details Moses' background, establishing his exceptional qualifications before recounting his divine call and the subsequent events of the Exodus. The narrative arc of Stephen's sermon builds towards his accusation of the Sanhedrin's persistent resistance to the Holy Spirit, mirroring their ancestors' rejection of God's prophets and ultimately, the Messiah.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The "wisdom of the Egyptians" refers to the highly developed intellectual and administrative systems of ancient Egypt, a civilization renowned for its advancements in mathematics, astronomy, medicine, architecture, engineering, literature, and governmental administration. Moses, as the adopted son of Pharaoh's daughter ([Exodus 2:10](/exodus/2-10 "Exodus 2:10 - Moses Adopted by Pharaoh's Daughter")), would have had access to the highest levels of education available in the royal court and temple schools. This training would have encompassed not only academic subjects but also the arts of diplomacy, military strategy, and administration—skills crucial for leading a nation. The phrase "mighty in words and in deeds" reflects the expectation for a leader in the ancient world to possess both persuasive eloquence and decisive action, qualities highly valued in Egyptian society. Stephen's statement here aligns with extra-biblical traditions (e.g., Josephus) that portray Moses as a brilliant general and orator, further emphasizing his exceptional preparation for leadership.
* **Key Themes:** This verse contributes significantly to several key themes within Acts and the broader biblical narrative. Firstly, it highlights the theme of **Divine Preparation and Providence**, demonstrating how God meticulously equips individuals for His purposes, even utilizing secular education and experiences. Moses' training in Egypt, though pagan in origin, was sovereignly orchestrated by God for His redemptive plan. Secondly, it underscores the theme of **Leadership Qualities**, presenting a model of a well-rounded leader who possesses both intellectual acumen ("wisdom") and practical effectiveness ("mighty in words and in deeds"). This holistic development is seen as essential for the immense task Moses was to undertake. Thirdly, it subtly introduces the theme of **Paradox and God's Power in Weakness**, especially when contrasted with Moses' own initial reluctance and claim of being "slow of speech" in [Exodus 4:10](/exodus/4-10 "Exodus 4:10 - Moses' Reluctance to Speak"). Stephen's description suggests either a divine transformation of Moses' perceived weakness or an emphasis on his inherent potential and developed capabilities, showcasing God's ability to empower His chosen servants beyond their natural limitations.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **learned (Greek, _paideúō'_):** This term, derived from the word for "child" (paîs), means "to train up a child," "to educate," or "to discipline (by punishment)." In this context, it signifies a comprehensive and rigorous upbringing, encompassing intellectual instruction, moral formation, and practical training. It implies that Moses was thoroughly schooled and disciplined in the Egyptian system of knowledge.
* **wisdom (Greek, _sophía'_):** Refers to comprehensive knowledge, skill, and practical understanding. In the context of Egyptian wisdom, it would have included a vast array of disciplines such as mathematics, astronomy, engineering, medicine, administration, and even their religious and philosophical traditions. Moses' mastery of "all" this wisdom indicates an exceptional intellectual capacity and breadth of learning.
* **mighty (Greek, _dynatós'_):** Derived from the verb "to be able" (dúnamai), this adjective means "powerful," "capable," or "effective." When applied to Moses, it denotes his inherent strength, competence, and ability to achieve significant outcomes. It speaks to his inherent power and effectiveness, both in his communication and his actions.
* **words (Greek, _lógos'_):** This broad term encompasses "something said," "discourse," "reasoning," or "speech." When Moses is described as "mighty in words," it indicates his eloquence, persuasive power, and authority in communication. It suggests he possessed a compelling rhetorical ability, capable of influencing and commanding.
* **deeds (Greek, _érgon'_):** This word refers to "toil," "work," or "an act." Being "mighty in deeds" signifies Moses' capacity for decisive action, effective leadership, and the successful execution of tasks. It points to his practical ability to bring about results, whether through administrative acts, military leadership, or the performance of miraculous signs.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And Moses was learned in all the wisdom of the Egyptians":** This clause emphasizes Moses' profound intellectual development and comprehensive education within the most advanced civilization of his time. It highlights his mastery of the vast body of Egyptian knowledge, including their sciences, arts, administration, and philosophical thought. This was not a superficial acquaintance but a deep immersion and proficiency.
* **"and was mighty in words and in deeds":** This second clause describes Moses' practical efficacy and leadership capabilities. "Mighty in words" points to his eloquence, persuasive communication, and authoritative speech, indicating a powerful orator and negotiator. "Mighty in deeds" signifies his capacity for decisive action, effective leadership, and the ability to accomplish significant tasks, whether through administrative acts, military leadership, or the execution of God's will. Together, these phrases portray Moses as a well-rounded and exceptionally capable leader, prepared for the monumental task ahead.

#### Literary Devices
Stephen employs **Parallelism** in the phrase "mighty in words and in deeds," creating a balanced and comprehensive description of Moses' capabilities. This structure emphasizes that Moses was not merely intellectually astute but also practically effective, possessing both rhetorical power and the ability to act decisively. The use of **Hyperbole** in "all the wisdom of the Egyptians" underscores the unparalleled breadth and depth of Moses' education, suggesting a complete mastery of the most sophisticated knowledge of his era. Furthermore, there is an element of **Irony** when comparing Stephen's assessment with Moses' own self-description in [Exodus 4:10](/exodus/4-10 "Exodus 4:10 - Moses' Reluctance to Speak") as "slow of speech." This contrast highlights God's ability to empower and transform individuals, making them "mighty" for His purposes despite their perceived weaknesses or initial reluctance.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Acts 7:22 profoundly illustrates God's sovereign providence in preparing His chosen servants. Moses' education in the heart of a pagan empire was not an accident but a divine orchestration, equipping him with the administrative, intellectual, and leadership skills necessary to confront Pharaoh and lead a nascent nation. This demonstrates that God can redeem and utilize any background, training, or experience—even those from seemingly ungodly sources—for His redemptive purposes. It also speaks to the nature of true wisdom, which, while it may incorporate worldly knowledge, ultimately finds its source and purpose in God. Moses' human capabilities, though impressive, were ultimately instruments in the hands of a mightier God.

* [1 Corinthians 1:25](/1_corinthians/1-25 "1 Corinthians 1:25 - God's Foolishness Wiser Than Man's Wisdom")
* [Proverbs 3:5-6](/proverbs/3-5-6 "Proverbs 3:5-6 - Trust in the Lord")
* [Isaiah 55:8-9](/isaiah/55-8-9 "Isaiah 55:8-9 - God's Ways Higher Than Ours")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Acts 7:22 offers profound insights for believers today, reminding us that God is sovereign over every detail of our lives, including our education, experiences, and natural abilities. Just as Moses' Egyptian training was redeemed and employed for God's grand design, so too can our diverse backgrounds, skills, and even secular learning be sanctified and used for His glory. This verse encourages us to pursue excellence in our callings, recognizing that intellectual development, effective communication, and decisive action are all valuable attributes that can be consecrated to God's service. Furthermore, it serves as a powerful reminder that God often prepares individuals extensively for significant roles, sometimes through unexpected means or prolonged periods of waiting and learning. Our preparation, whether formal or informal, is never wasted in God's economy. Finally, the contrast with Moses' self-perception in Exodus reminds us that God's power perfects our weaknesses, enabling us to be "mighty" in His strength.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How do you see God's providence at work in your own past experiences or education, even those that seemed unrelated to spiritual growth at the time?**
* **In what areas of your life (words, deeds, wisdom) do you feel "mighty," and how can you intentionally dedicate these strengths to God's purposes?**
* **What "weaknesses" or areas of inadequacy do you perceive in yourself, and how can the example of Moses encourage you to trust God to empower you beyond your natural limitations?**
* **How does this verse challenge you to pursue both intellectual growth and practical action in your service to God and others?**

### FAQ

**What kind of "wisdom" did Moses learn from the Egyptians?**

Answer: The "wisdom of the Egyptians" refers to the highly advanced and comprehensive knowledge system of ancient Egypt. This would have included disciplines such as mathematics (geometry for construction and land surveying), astronomy (for calendar keeping and navigation), medicine (anatomy, pharmacology), engineering (pyramids, temples, irrigation systems), architecture, literature, and administrative arts. As an adopted member of Pharaoh's household, Moses would have been trained in the highest echelons of this knowledge, preparing him for leadership and governance.

**How does Stephen's statement that Moses was "mighty in words" reconcile with Moses' own claim in [Exodus 4:10](/exodus/4-10 "Exodus 4:10 - Moses' Reluctance to Speak") that he was "slow of speech"?**

Answer: There are several ways to understand this apparent discrepancy. First, Moses' self-assessment in [Exodus 4:10](/exodus/4-10 "Exodus 4:10 - Moses' Reluctance to Speak") might have been a genuine feeling of inadequacy or shyness in the face of a divine commission, rather than a factual statement about his overall speaking ability. Stephen, speaking under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit and from a historical perspective, might be referring to Moses' inherent, God-given potential or his developed abilities after his 40 years in Midian, where he may have honed his rhetorical skills. Alternatively, it could imply that God supernaturally empowered Moses' speech when it was needed, transforming his perceived weakness into strength for His purposes. Stephen's statement emphasizes the ultimate outcome of God's preparation and empowerment, rather than Moses' initial hesitation.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Acts 7:22, while describing Moses' extraordinary preparation, ultimately points to the supreme wisdom and power of Jesus Christ. Moses, "learned in all the wisdom of the Egyptians" and "mighty in words and in deeds," serves as a type, or foreshadowing, of the ultimate Prophet and Deliverer. Jesus, unlike Moses, did not need to acquire wisdom from human institutions; He is the very embodiment of divine wisdom, the [Logos](/john/1-1 "John 1:1 - The Word Was God") through whom all things were created ([Colossians 1:16](/colossians/1-16 "Colossians 1:16 - All Things Created Through Christ")). His "words" were not merely persuasive but carried unparalleled authority, as people noted He taught "as one who had authority, and not as their scribes" ([Matthew 7:29](/matthew/7-29 "Matthew 7:29 - Jesus Teaches with Authority")). His "deeds" were not merely effective actions but miraculous demonstrations of divine power, healing the sick, casting out demons, and even raising the dead, proving His identity as the Son of God ([John 10:38](/john/10-38 "John 10:38 - Believe the Works")). Just as Moses was prepared by God for a great deliverance, Jesus was uniquely prepared and sent by the Father to accomplish the ultimate deliverance from sin and death, fulfilling all that Moses and the prophets foreshadowed ([Luke 24:27](/luke/24-27 "Luke 24:27 - Jesus Explains Scriptures to Disciples")).

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Isaiah 19:11

Surely the princes of Zoan [are] fools, the counsel of the wise counsellors of Pharaoh is become brutish: how say ye unto Pharaoh, I [am] the son of the wise, the son of ancient kings?

Daniel 1:4

Children in whom [was] no blemish, but well favoured, and skilful in all wisdom, and cunning in knowledge, and understanding science, and such as [had] ability in them to stand in the king's palace, and whom they might teach the learning and the tongue of the Chaldeans.

2 Chronicles 9:22

And king Solomon passed all the kings of the earth in riches and wisdom.

1 Kings 4:29

¶ And God gave Solomon wisdom and understanding exceeding much, and largeness of heart, even as the sand that [is] on the sea shore.

1 Kings 4:30

And Solomon's wisdom excelled the wisdom of all the children of the east country, and all the wisdom of Egypt.

Daniel 1:17

¶ As for these four children, God gave them knowledge and skill in all learning and wisdom: and Daniel had understanding in all visions and dreams.

Daniel 1:20

And in all matters of wisdom [and] understanding, that the king enquired of them, he found them ten times better than all the magicians [and] astrologers that [were] in all his realm.