Acts 7:28

Acts 7:28 KJV captures a pivotal moment in Stephen's powerful sermon, where he recounts the early life of Moses to the Sanhedrin. This specific verse highlights the initial rejection Moses faced from his own people, even as he was preparing to become their divinely appointed deliverer.

Context

This verse is part of Stephen's extensive defense before the Jewish high council, a defense that surveys the history of Israel from Abraham to Solomon, emphasizing God's continuous work and Israel's repeated resistance to His messengers. Stephen recounts the story of Moses, who, seeing an Egyptian oppressing an Israelite, killed the Egyptian and hid him in the sand (Exodus 2:11-12). The very next day, Moses attempted to mediate a dispute between two quarreling Israelites. The man who was in the wrong challenged Moses' authority, uttering the words of this verse: "Wilt thou kill me, as thou diddest the Egyptian yesterday?" This accusation from the offending Israelite in Acts 7:27 reveals their awareness of Moses' action and their immediate distrust and rejection of his attempt to intervene on their behalf.

Key Themes

• Rejection of God's Deliverer: The verse vividly illustrates the immediate rejection of Moses by his own people. This early resistance foreshadows Israel's broader historical pattern of rejecting God's prophets and messengers, a central point of Stephen's sermon. This theme culminates in the ultimate rejection of the Messiah, Jesus Christ, by His own nation.
• Human Resistance to Divine Intervention: Even when God begins to raise up a deliverer, human pride, fear, and misunderstanding can lead to resistance. The Israelite's question reveals a lack of understanding regarding Moses' intentions and a focus on his past action rather than his desire to bring justice and reconciliation.
• The Cost of Leadership: Moses' initial act, though perhaps born of righteous indignation, was not executed in God's perfect timing or method, leading to immediate danger and his flight from Egypt. This incident highlights the challenges and misunderstandings leaders often face, especially when operating outside of divine guidance or timing.

Linguistic Insights

The Greek word for "kill" used here is phoneuō (φονεύω), which denotes to murder or slay. It's the same term found in the Septuagint (the Greek Old Testament) for the command "Thou shalt not kill" (Exodus 20:13). The accuser's use of this strong word emphasizes the gravity of Moses' previous action from his perspective, framing it as a criminal act. The word "yesterday" (χθές - chthes) underscores the fresh memory of Moses' deed, making the accusation immediate and pointed.

Practical Application

This verse reminds us that divine calling often involves facing misunderstanding and rejection, even from those one is called to serve. Like Moses, God's servants may experience setbacks or opposition, but God's ultimate plan will prevail. It also serves as a caution against acting impulsively or outside of God's clear direction, as Moses did in his first attempt to deliver his people. Furthermore, the narrative encourages us to reflect on our own readiness to accept and follow those God sends, rather than allowing past perceptions or personal biases to hinder our reception of His message or messengers. The pattern of rejection Stephen highlights should prompt believers to embrace God's chosen instruments, recognizing His hand at work even through imperfect individuals.