Acts 7:35 - Understanding the Verse

Bible Verse: Acts 7:35 states, "This Moses whom they refused, saying, Who made thee a ruler and a judge? the same did God send to be a ruler and a deliverer by the hand of the angel which appeared to him in the bush."

Overview

This verse recounts a pivotal moment in the history of Israel, where Moses, initially rejected by his own people, is appointed by God to lead and deliver them from bondage in Egypt. This passage serves as a foundation for understanding the significance of Moses' mission as well as the people’s initial disbelief and rejection of him.

Commentary Insights

• Matthew Henry's Commentary

  Matthew Henry emphasizes the hypocrisy of the Israelites who, despite recognizing Moses' potential to lead, initially reject him. He points out the foreshadowing of Christ in Moses, as both faced rejection before their ultimate mission of salvation. This rejection reflects the common human tendency to overlook God's chosen vessels.

• Albert Barnes' Notes

  Albert Barnes stresses that Moses' appointment came at the right time, and this illustrates the divine providence guiding the Exodus. Barnes remarks on how Moses' early life and subsequent rejection serve as a prelude to his later acceptance and vital role as God’s instrument for deliverance. The miraculous encounter at the burning bush becomes a significant hallmark of God's choice and orchestration in human affairs.

• Adam Clarke's Commentary

  Adam Clarke provides historical context to Moses' background, explaining how he grew up in Pharaoh's household yet was destined to be a Hebrew leader. He indicates that the rejection of Moses by his people prefigures the rejection of Jesus later in the New Testament. Clarke highlights the empowerment Moses received through the angel of God, which signifies divine authority in leadership and judgment.

Bible Verse Meanings and Interpretations

The meaning of Acts 7:35 can be viewed from multiple aspects:

• Rejection and Acceptance: This verse illustrates the common theme of rejection faced by leaders chosen by God and the eventual acceptance of their intended roles.
• Divine Purpose: It signifies that God's plans are not thwarted by human disbelief; rather, they unfold in His timing and sovereignty.
• Messianic Foreshadowing: The recognition of Moses as a leader sets a precedent for Jesus, who also came to deliver but faced rejection, indicating God's relentless effort to redeem His people.

Application in Bible Study

Understanding Acts 7:35 provides rich material for Bible study groups or online Bible study. This verse can lead discussions on:

• The nature of leadership in the Bible and the challenges faced by God's chosen leaders.
• The importance of recognizing and accepting God's messengers in one’s own life.
• How to apply the lessons of rejection and perseverance in contemporary spiritual journeys.

Cross References

For deeper biblical exegesis and contextual understanding, consider these cross-references:

• Exodus 2:14 - Moses' initial rejection by his people.
• Acts 3:22-23 - The connection of Moses with Christ's authority and mission.
• Hebrews 11:24-26 - Moses’ faith and his choice to identify with his Hebrew heritage.
• John 1:11 - The rejection of Jesus by His own people parallels the rejection of Moses.
• Matthew 21:42 - Jesus referencing the stone that builders rejected, further exploring themes of acceptance and leadership.

Conclusion

Acts 7:35 serves as a profound example of God's choosing and preparation of leaders, highlighting the tension between human rejection and divine purpose. Through this verse, believers can gain insights into their own faith journeys, discussing themes of leadership, acceptance, and the ever-present hand of God in guiding His people to deliverance.