What Old Testament event is Stephen referencing in Acts 7:33? Stephen’s Setting in Acts 7 • Stephen has been recounting Israel’s history before the Sanhedrin, demonstrating God’s faithfulness and Israel’s repeated resistance to Him (Acts 7:1-53). • In verse 33 he quotes the Lord’s words to Moses: “ ‘Take off your sandals, for the place where you are standing is holy ground.’ ” (Acts 7:33). The Old Testament Event Identified • Stephen is referring to Moses’ encounter with the LORD at the burning bush on Mount Horeb, recorded in Exodus 3. • Key verse: “Then He said, ‘Do not come any closer. Take off your sandals, for the place where you are standing is holy ground.’” (Exodus 3:5). • This moment marks God’s commissioning of Moses to deliver Israel from Egyptian bondage. Key Passages Connected • Exodus 3:1-6 – Moses sees a bush that burns but is not consumed, and God calls to him from within the fire. • Exodus 3:7-10 – The LORD declares He has seen Israel’s oppression and will send Moses to Pharaoh. • Acts 7:30-34 – Stephen summarizes the burning-bush event, emphasizing God’s initiative and Moses’ role. Why Stephen Highlights This Event • God’s holiness: Removing sandals signified reverence; Stephen reminds his audience that God is holy and present outside the Temple. • God’s initiative in salvation: Just as God sought Moses, He now sends Jesus, the ultimate Deliverer (Acts 7:52). • Israel’s history of rejection: The generation in Egypt initially rejected Moses’ leadership (Exodus 2:14; Acts 7:25-28); likewise, Stephen’s hearers resist Jesus. • Continuity of revelation: The same God who spoke at Horeb speaks through His Son (Hebrews 1:1-2). Lessons for Today • Approach God with reverence, recognizing His holiness wherever He reveals Himself. • Trust God’s call—even in unlikely circumstances, He equips those He sends. • Recognize divine deliverance: Moses foreshadows Christ, the greater Redeemer who frees from sin (John 8:36). • Resist the pattern of unbelief: Learn from Israel’s history to embrace God’s Word promptly and obediently. |
    |