Acts 7:31

Context of Acts 7:31

Acts 7:31 is part of Stephen's powerful defense speech before the Sanhedrin, a sermon that recounts the history of Israel from Abraham to Solomon, highlighting God's faithfulness and Israel's recurrent rebellion. In this specific passage, Stephen is detailing the pivotal moment of Moses' encounter with God at the burning bush, an event foundational to Israel's identity and Moses' calling. The preceding verse, Acts 7:30, describes the appearance of an angel of the Lord in the bush, setting the scene for this divine revelation. Stephen uses this historical narrative to demonstrate God's consistent working through His chosen instruments, even when misunderstood or rejected by His people.

Key Themes and Messages

• Divine Revelation and Initiative: The verse emphasizes that God initiates contact. Moses "drew near," but it was "the voice of the Lord" that came to him. This highlights God's active involvement in human history and His desire to communicate with humanity.
• Awe and Wonder: Moses' reaction—"he wondered at the sight"—underscores the profound and supernatural nature of the encounter. It's a moment of profound reverence and astonishment in the face of the divine.
• Preparation for Calling: This dramatic event was not merely a spectacle but a direct preparation for Moses' monumental task of leading the Israelites out of Egyptian bondage. It was here that he received his commission and understood the divine power backing him.
• God's Presence: The burning bush, though not consumed, was a visible manifestation of God's holy presence, signifying that the ground upon which Moses stood was holy. This concept of God's immanence is crucial throughout biblical narrative.

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "he wondered at the sight" conveys Moses' deep astonishment and awe. The Greek word for "wondered" (ethaumasen) denotes a sense of amazement or marvel, indicating that this was no ordinary phenomenon. The directness of "the voice of the Lord came unto him" emphasizes the personal and authoritative nature of God's communication, distinguishing it from mere natural occurrences. This direct address is a hallmark of significant divine encounters throughout the Old Testament.

Practical Application

Acts 7:31 reminds us that God often reveals Himself in unexpected ways and places. Like Moses, we are called to be attentive to God's presence and voice, even in what might seem like ordinary circumstances. This verse encourages us to cultivate a sense of awe and reverence for God, recognizing His sovereignty and power. It also teaches us that divine encounters often precede or prepare us for a specific calling or purpose, much like this event prepared Moses for his role as Israel's deliverer. We should be open to God's initiative in our lives, ready to listen and respond when His voice comes to us.