What is the meaning of Acts 7:20? At that time • Stephen has just reminded the Sanhedrin that “the people multiplied and increased in Egypt” (Acts 7:17). • The phrase anchors us to the era of Pharaoh’s oppression—see Exodus 1:8-22, where newborn Hebrew boys were sentenced to death. • God’s covenant clock had struck the 400-year mark foretold to Abraham (Genesis 15:13-14), signaling that deliverance was near. Moses was born • Exodus 2:1-2 records the same event, showing God’s providence unfolding in a specific family from the tribe of Levi (Exodus 2:1; Numbers 26:59). • With each birth, Pharaoh’s decree appeared to tighten its grip, yet in that very context God introduces the deliverer. • Hebrews 11:23 notes that Moses’ parents acted “by faith,” refusing to accept the culture’s demand for death. The birth itself is an act of divine timing. and he was beautiful in the sight of God • Stephen’s wording stresses more than physical appearance; it highlights divine favor. Exodus 2:2 simply notes the child was “beautiful,” but Acts 7:20 adds “in the sight of God,” underscoring that God Himself delighted in Moses. • Psalm 139:14-16 reminds us that every life is formed and valued by the Creator; Moses’ beauty reflects that larger truth. • God’s approval echoes similar phrases describing favored individuals—e.g., David as “a man after My own heart” (Acts 13:22) and Jesus as “My beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased” (Matthew 3:17). For three months he was nurtured in his father’s house • Exodus 2:2 fills in the details: his mother “hid him for three months.” Protection and nurturing happened simultaneously. • This period demonstrates parental courage and obedience to God over man (Acts 5:29). Faith is often expressed in everyday caregiving. • God honored their risk: Hebrews 11:23 points out they were “not afraid of the king’s edict.” Their household became the first sanctuary for the future liberator. • After three months, when concealment was no longer possible, God seamlessly transitioned Moses from parental arms to Pharaoh’s palace (Exodus 2:3-10), proving His sovereignty over every environment. summary In a single verse Stephen packs covenant timing, courageous faith, divine favor, and sovereign preservation. Acts 7:20 shows that God births deliverance at the darkest hour, treasures His chosen vessels, empowers ordinary parents to protect life, and moves history forward through homes that trust Him. |
    |