What is the meaning of Acts 7:13? On their second visit • Genesis 42 records the first journey of Joseph’s brothers to Egypt, where they meet an unrecognizable Joseph and return home with Simeon held as surety. • Genesis 43–44 describes the second journey, spurred by worsening famine and Joseph’s demand for Benjamin’s appearance. • The phrase “On their second visit” (Acts 7:13) highlights God’s timing: not immediate resolution, but a process that deepens conviction and repentance (cf. Psalm 105:17–19). • By the second trip, guilt over selling Joseph is openly confessed (Genesis 42:21–22), preparing their hearts for reconciliation. Joseph revealed his identity to his brothers “Joseph said to his brothers, ‘I am Joseph! Is my father still alive?’” (Genesis 45:3). • Revelation replaces concealment; what was hidden becomes clear (Luke 12:2). • Joseph’s disclosure shows divine providence overruling human sin: “God sent me ahead of you to preserve life” (Genesis 45:5–7). • Forgiveness triumphs over vengeance, foreshadowing Christ’s revelation of Himself to those who once rejected Him (John 20:19–20). His family became known to Pharaoh • Genesis 45:16–20 recounts Pharaoh hearing the news “and it pleased Pharaoh and his servants.” • Pharaoh’s favor secures provision—wagons, goods, and the best of Egypt—echoing God’s covenant promise to bless Abraham’s descendants (Genesis 12:2–3). • The public acknowledgment of Joseph’s family prefigures the gathering of God’s people into a place of safety and abundance (Revelation 7:9–17). summary Acts 7:13 underscores the moment when God, through Joseph, turns past betrayal into present blessing. The second visit reveals His purposeful timing, Joseph’s gracious self-disclosure, and Pharaoh’s welcoming recognition. Together these details affirm that the Lord faithfully works through every circumstance to preserve, reconcile, and exalt His chosen people. |
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