This passage recounts a portion of Stephen's speech to the high priest and the Jewish council, in which he presents a summary of Moses' life and highlights a significant event from his early years. In these verses, Stephen, a follower of Jesus, provides a condensed account of Moses' early life, emphasizing his education, abilities, and his turning point to identify with the Israelites as his own people.
The passage begins by stating that Moses was instructed in all the wisdom of the Egyptians. This highlights the privileged position Moses had as a member of the Egyptian royal family. He received a comprehensive education in the wisdom and knowledge of the Egyptians, which included their culture, sciences, and philosophy. This upbringing endowed him with a broad understanding and proficiency in the ways of the Egyptian civilization.
Furthermore, it is mentioned that Moses was mighty in his words and works. This signifies that he possessed both eloquence in speech and effectiveness in action. Moses' education and upbringing equipped him to excel in both verbal and practical pursuits. He was not only knowledgeable but also capable of accomplishing great things through his words and deeds.
The passage then focuses on a significant event in Moses' life. At the age of forty, Moses had a profound realization and desire to visit his fellow Israelites, who were enslaved and oppressed by the Egyptians. This revelation came into his heart, indicating that it was a heartfelt and purposeful decision. It shows that Moses identified with his Hebrew heritage and felt a strong connection to his people.
Upon witnessing an Egyptian mistreating one of his Israelite brethren, Moses took action. He defended the oppressed Hebrew and avenged him by striking down the Egyptian. This act demonstrated Moses' sense of justice and his commitment to protect and support his fellow Israelites. However, it also foreshadowed the challenges and conflicts that Moses would face as he sought to deliver his people from bondage.
These verses highlight Moses' early experiences, setting the stage for the subsequent events in his life, including his call by God to lead the Israelites out of Egypt. They reveal his unique upbringing and preparation, as well as his identification with the Israelite people and his passion for justice.
From a broader perspective, this passage reminds us that even though Moses had an influential position in Egyptian society, he did not turn a blind eye to the suffering of his own people. His act of defending the oppressed Israelite reflects the importance of standing up against injustice, regardless of our background or privileges.
It also speaks to the significance of identity and purpose. Moses' connection to his Hebrew heritage stirred a sense of responsibility within him, leading him to take action on behalf of his people. Similarly, as believers, we are called to recognize our identity in Christ and to live out our faith by standing up for justice and defending the oppressed in our society.
In conclusion, Acts 7:22-24 provides a glimpse into Moses' early life and his turning point to identify with the Israelites. It highlights his education, skills, and his act of defending an oppressed Hebrew. These verses remind us of the importance of justice, identity, and taking action in the face of injustice. They encourage us to reflect on our own roles in advocating for the oppressed and standing up for what is right, as Moses did in his time.
Acts 7:22-24. Moses was instructed in all the wisdom of the Egyptians. He was mighty in his words and works. But when he was forty years old, it came into his heart to visit his brothers, the children of Israel. Seeing one of them suffer wrong, he defended him, and avenged him who was oppressed, striking the Egyptian.