Acts 7:31

KJV

When Moses saw [it], he wondered at the sight: and as he drew near to behold [it], the voice of the Lord came unto him,

KJV (with Strong's)

When {G1161} Moses {G3475} saw {G1492} it, he wondered {G2296} at the sight {G3705}: and {G1161} as he {G846} drew near {G4334} to behold {G2657} it, the voice {G5456} of the Lord {G2962} came {G1096} unto {G4314} him {G846},

Complete Jewish Bible

When Moshe saw this, he was amazed at the sight; and as he approached to get a better look, there came the voice of Adonai,

Berean Standard Bible

When Moses saw it, he marveled at the sight. As he approached to look more closely, the voice of the Lord came to him:

American Standard Version

And when Moses saw it, he wondered at the sight: and as he drew near to behold, there came a voice of the Lord,

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Acts 7:31 captures a pivotal moment in Stephen's defense before the Sanhedrin, recounting Moses' awe-struck encounter with the divine at the burning bush. As Moses beheld the miraculous sight, he was filled with wonder, and as he drew nearer to investigate, the authoritative voice of the Lord directly addressed him. This verse highlights God's initiative in revealing Himself and calling His chosen instruments, setting the stage for Moses' commission as the deliverer of Israel.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Acts 7:31 is embedded within Stephen's lengthy and polemical speech, which spans from [Acts 7:2](/acts/7-2 "Acts 7:2 - Stephen's Defense Begins") to [Acts 7:53](/acts/7-53 "Acts 7:53 - Stephen's Accusation"). Stephen, accused of blasphemy against the temple and the law, systematically recounts Israel's history, emphasizing God's consistent presence and action outside the temple, often through figures rejected by their own people. This specific verse falls within his detailed narrative of Moses' life and calling, beginning in [Acts 7:20](/acts/7-20 "Acts 7:20 - Moses' Birth and Early Life") and extending through Moses' leadership. Stephen's purpose in recounting the burning bush incident (originally found in [Exodus 3](/exodus/3 "Exodus 3 - The Burning Bush")) is to demonstrate God's direct communication and commissioning of Moses, thereby validating Moses' authority and, by extension, God's pattern of working through chosen individuals, a pattern that culminates in Jesus Christ. The preceding verse, [Acts 7:30](/acts/7-30 "Acts 7:30 - The Angel in the Bush"), sets the scene by describing the appearance of "an angel of the Lord in a flame of fire in a bush."
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The event described in Acts 7:31, Moses' encounter at the burning bush, occurred in the wilderness near Mount Horeb (Sinai) while Moses was tending Jethro's flock. This was during Moses' forty-year exile from Egypt, a period of quiet preparation after his initial, failed attempt to deliver his people ([Exodus 2:11-15](/exodus/2-11-15 "Exodus 2:11-15 - Moses Kills an Egyptian")). Culturally, direct divine encounters were rare and profoundly significant, often marking a turning point in an individual's life and in the history of God's people. The concept of "holy ground" ([Exodus 3:5](/exodus/3-5 "Exodus 3:5 - Holy Ground")) was deeply ingrained, signifying a place where God's presence was uniquely manifest, demanding reverence and separation. Stephen's audience, the Sanhedrin, would have been intimately familiar with this foundational narrative from the Torah, making Moses' experience a powerful and undeniable precedent for divine revelation outside traditional sacred spaces, a point Stephen subtly uses to critique their rigid adherence to the temple.
* **Key Themes:** This verse contributes to several overarching themes within Stephen's speech and the broader book of Acts. Firstly, it underscores the theme of **Divine Initiative and Revelation**. God is not passive but actively seeks to communicate with humanity, initiating contact with Moses in a dramatic and undeniable way. Secondly, it highlights **God's Sovereignty and Call**, demonstrating that God chooses and equips His servants for specific purposes, often in unexpected ways and places, as seen in Moses' call to deliver Israel from bondage ([Exodus 3:10](/exodus/3-10 "Exodus 3:10 - Moses' Commission")). Thirdly, the theme of **Awe and Reverence** is prominent in Moses' reaction to the supernatural "sight," emphasizing the appropriate human response to divine majesty. Finally, the narrative foreshadows the theme of **God's Presence Not Confined to Buildings**, a crucial point Stephen makes throughout his speech to challenge the Sanhedrin's temple-centric theology, showing that God met Moses in the wilderness, not in a tabernacle or temple.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **wondered (Greek, _thaumázō'_):** From the Greek word "thauma" meaning "wonder," this verb signifies to wonder, to be amazed, or to admire. Moses' reaction was one of profound astonishment and awe in the face of the extraordinary, supernatural phenomenon of the burning bush. It implies a deep emotional and intellectual response to something beyond ordinary human comprehension, highlighting the divine and miraculous nature of the sight.
* **sight (Greek, _hórama'_):** Derived from the verb "horao" (to see), this noun refers to something gazed at, a spectacle, or specifically a supernatural vision. It emphasizes that what Moses perceived was not an ordinary occurrence but a divinely orchestrated manifestation intended to convey a message or reveal God's presence. It underscores the visual and miraculous aspect of the encounter that captivated Moses.
* **voice (Greek, _phōnḗ'_):** This term denotes a tone, an articulate sound, or a language. In this context, it refers to the direct, audible communication from God. The "voice of the Lord" signifies an authoritative and personal address, distinguishing it from mere natural sounds and confirming the divine origin of the message Moses was about to receive. It highlights God's active and direct engagement with humanity.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"When Moses saw [it], he wondered at the sight:"** This clause describes Moses' initial perception and immediate emotional reaction to the burning bush. The "it" refers to the bush that was burning but not consumed, as described in [Acts 7:30](/acts/7-30 "Acts 7:30 - The Angel in the Bush"). Moses' "wonder" (Greek _ethaumasen_) signifies deep astonishment and awe, indicating that he recognized the extraordinary, supernatural nature of what he was witnessing. This was not a casual observation but a profound encounter that arrested his attention and evoked a sense of the divine.
* **"and as he drew near to behold [it],"** This part of the verse details Moses' subsequent action. Driven by his wonder and curiosity, Moses actively moved closer to the miraculous phenomenon. The phrase "drew near" (Greek _prosérchomai_) indicates an intentional approach, while "to behold" (Greek _katanoéō_) implies a careful, full observation, suggesting he wanted to understand the nature of this inexplicable sight. This act of drawing near is crucial, as it demonstrates Moses' receptiveness and willingness to engage with the divine revelation.
* **"the voice of the Lord came unto him,"** This final clause marks the culmination of the encounter: direct divine communication. As Moses approached, the "voice of the Lord" (Greek _phōnḗ tou Kyríou_) spoke to him. This signifies a personal, authoritative, and unmistakable address from God Himself, initiating the dialogue that would lead to Moses' divine commission. The phrase "came unto him" (Greek _egeneto prós auton_) emphasizes the directness and immediacy of God's communication, highlighting God's initiative in speaking to Moses.

#### Literary Devices
Stephen's recounting of Acts 7:31 masterfully employs several literary devices to enhance its impact. **Narrative Progression** is evident as Stephen moves chronologically through Moses' life, building to this pivotal moment of divine encounter. The use of **Emphasis** is clear in Moses' reaction: "he wondered at the sight," immediately drawing attention to the extraordinary nature of the event and Moses' appropriate response of awe. The phrase "the voice of the Lord came unto him" utilizes **Divine Initiative**, highlighting God's active role in revelation rather than Moses merely seeking Him out. Furthermore, the entire episode functions as **Foreshadowing**, setting the stage for Moses' subsequent commission as Israel's deliverer and mediator of the Law, a role that typologically points to Christ. The **Symbolism** of the burning bush, though not explicitly detailed in this verse, is implicitly present through the "sight" that evokes wonder, representing God's holy and consuming presence that paradoxically sustains life.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Acts 7:31 is a profound theological statement on God's nature and His interaction with humanity. It underscores God's active initiative in revealing Himself, not waiting for humanity to perfectly seek Him out, but breaking into human experience in powerful and undeniable ways. Moses' encounter at the burning bush is a foundational narrative for understanding divine call and commissioning, demonstrating that God equips those He chooses, often in unexpected circumstances and locations. The awe and wonder Moses experiences are a model for human reverence in the face of God's holiness and power, reminding us that true encounters with the divine are transformative and demand a response of humility and worship. This event establishes a pattern of God raising up deliverers and prophets, a pattern that Stephen will ultimately argue culminates in Jesus Christ, the ultimate Prophet and Deliverer.

* [Exodus 3:2-6](/exodus/3-2-6 "Exodus 3:2-6 - The Burning Bush Account")
* [Isaiah 6:1-8](/isaiah/6-1-8 "Isaiah 6:1-8 - Isaiah's Vision and Call")
* [Hebrews 12:29](/hebrews/12-29 "Hebrews 12:29 - Our God is a Consuming Fire")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Acts 7:31 invites us to cultivate a posture of attentiveness and reverence in our own lives, recognizing that God is continually revealing Himself, often in ways that defy our expectations or logic. Like Moses, we are called to be observant of the "sights" that might seem unusual or even mundane, for within them, God's presence and voice may be found. Moses' willingness to "draw near" despite his wonder teaches us the importance of pursuing God when He reveals Himself, rather than shrinking back in fear or skepticism. This verse reminds us that divine encounters are not merely for personal experience but often serve as preparation for a greater purpose or calling. Just as Moses was commissioned to lead Israel, we too are called to participate in God's redemptive work in the world. Our response to God's initiative should be one of humble inquiry and obedient readiness, trusting that His voice will guide us into His perfect will and equip us for every task He sets before us.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What "burning bushes" might God be using in your life right now to get your attention, and how are you responding to them?**
* **In what ways do you cultivate a sense of wonder and reverence for God in your daily life?**
* **Are you willing to "draw near" to God when He reveals Himself, even if it means stepping out of your comfort zone or questioning your assumptions?**
* **How might God be preparing you for a specific calling or purpose through your current experiences?**

### FAQ

**What is the significance of Moses "wondering at the sight" in Acts 7:31?**

Answer: Moses "wondering at the sight" (Greek: _ethaumasen epi tō horamati_) signifies his profound astonishment and awe in the face of the burning bush that was not consumed. This reaction highlights the supernatural and miraculous nature of the event, indicating that Moses recognized it as something beyond ordinary natural phenomena. It underscores the divine majesty and power at play, preparing him for the direct communication from God that immediately followed. His wonder is an appropriate human response to a direct encounter with the holy and transcendent God, setting a tone of reverence for the subsequent divine revelation and commissioning.

**Why does Stephen recount this specific event to the Sanhedrin?**

Answer: Stephen recounts Moses' encounter at the burning bush to the Sanhedrin as a crucial part of his defense, which is essentially a historical survey of Israel's relationship with God. By detailing this event, Stephen makes several key points:
* **God's Initiative:** He emphasizes that God initiates contact and reveals Himself, often in unexpected places (like a wilderness bush) and through chosen individuals (like Moses), rather than being confined to the Temple or specific rituals.
* **Moses' Authority:** He validates Moses' divine commission, showing that Moses was chosen and empowered by God directly. This is important because the Sanhedrin revered Moses and the Law, but Stephen is subtly arguing that they have misunderstood God's ultimate plan.
* **Israel's Rejection:** While not explicit in this verse, the broader context of Stephen's speech ([Acts 7:35](/acts/7-35 "Acts 7:35 - Moses Rejected by Israel")) is to show a pattern of Israel rejecting God's chosen deliverers, including Moses, and ultimately, Jesus. By recounting Moses' divine call, Stephen sets up the parallel with Jesus, who also came with divine authority but was rejected.

**How does the "voice of the Lord" coming to Moses relate to divine communication in the Bible?**

Answer: The "voice of the Lord" coming to Moses in Acts 7:31 (and [Exodus 3:4](/exodus/3-4 "Exodus 3:4 - God Calls Moses")) is a quintessential example of direct, audible divine communication in the Bible. It signifies God's personal and authoritative engagement with humanity. This direct address is a hallmark of significant revelatory moments, establishing a covenant, issuing a command, or commissioning a prophet. It underscores the personal nature of God, who desires to speak to His creation, and the clarity of His will. Such direct communication is a powerful demonstration of God's immanence, His presence and active involvement in the world, contrasting with the more indirect forms of revelation like natural law or general providence.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Acts 7:31, detailing Moses' encounter with the Lord at the burning bush, finds profound Christ-centered fulfillment in several ways. Moses, as the great prophet and deliverer of Israel, stands as a significant **type of Christ**. Just as God spoke directly to Moses from the burning bush, commissioning him to lead His people out of bondage, so too does God ultimately speak to humanity through His Son, Jesus Christ, who is the [Word made flesh](/john/1-14 "John 1:14 - The Word Became Flesh"). The awe and wonder Moses experienced in the presence of God's holiness foreshadow the ultimate revelation of God's character and presence in Christ, in whom "all the fullness of the Deity lives in bodily form" ([Colossians 2:9](/colossians/2-9 "Colossians 2:9 - Fullness of Deity in Christ")). The divine voice that came to Moses in the wilderness, calling him to a redemptive mission, points forward to Jesus, the ultimate Prophet whom God has sent to deliver humanity not from physical slavery, but from the bondage of sin and death ([Matthew 1:21](/matthew/1-21 "Matthew 1:21 - Jesus Will Save His People")). Furthermore, the holiness of the ground where God manifested His presence at the bush ([Exodus 3:5](/exodus/3-5 "Exodus 3:5 - Holy Ground")) is ultimately fulfilled in Christ, who is the very embodiment of God's holiness and through whom we can now approach God's throne of grace with confidence ([Hebrews 4:16](/hebrews/4-16 "Hebrews 4:16 - Approach the Throne of Grace")). The God who spoke to Moses is the same God who, in these last days, has spoken to us by His Son ([Hebrews 1:1-2](/hebrews/1-1-2 "Hebrews 1:1-2 - God Speaks Through His Son")), making the divine encounter accessible and personal through the person and work of Jesus Christ.

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

Exodus 3:3

And Moses said, I will now turn aside, and see this great sight, why the bush is not burnt.

Exodus 3:4

And when the LORD saw that he turned aside to see, God called unto him out of the midst of the bush, and said, Moses, Moses. And he said, Here [am] I.