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Acts 7:35

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.

Acts 7:35 · King James Version

Meaning

This verse from the book of Acts illustrates the rejection and acceptance of Moses by the Israelites. Initially, the people refused to accept Moses as a ruler and judge, questioning his authority. However, despite their rejection, God ultimately sent Moses to be a ruler and deliverer for the Israelites. Through the appearance of an angel in the burning bush, God confirmed and empowered Moses for this significant role. This story serves as a reminder of God's sovereignty and his ability to use unlikely individuals for his divine purposes. It also highlights the importance of trusting in God's plan, even when faced with doubts and challenges. The verse emphasizes that God is ultimately in control and can turn rejection into acceptance, doubt into faith, and weakness into strength.

Theological Overview

In this verse, the rejection of Moses by the Israelites is mentioned, highlighting their disbelief in his calling as a leader and judge. Despite their initial refusal, God sent Moses to be a ruler and deliverer, proving that his authority came from God himself. The theological interpretation of this verse underscores the concept of divine appointment and the sovereignty of God in choosing his instruments for carrying out his plans. Through this passage, we can see that God can use anyone, even those deemed unworthy or inadequate by others, to accomplish his purposes. This verse also emphasizes the role of obedience and faithfulness in fulfilling the tasks assigned by God. By examining the word "deliverer," we can further understand the significance of Moses' role in leading the Israelites out of slavery in Egypt, foreshadowing the ultimate deliverance that believers in Christ experience from sin and death.

Acts 7:35 in other translations

American Standard Version

This Moses whom they refused, saying, Who made thee a ruler and a judge? him hath God sent [to be] both a ruler and a deliverer with the hand of the angel that appeared to him in the bush.

World English Bible

“This Moses, whom they refused, saying, ‘Who made you a ruler and a judge?’—God has sent him as both a ruler and a deliverer by the hand of the angel who appeared to him in the bush.

Douay-Rheims

This Moses, whom they refused, saying: Who hath appointed thee prince and judge? Him God sent to be prince and redeemer, by the hand of the angel who appeared to him in the burning bush.

Geneva Bible (1599)

This Moses whome they forsooke, saying, Who made thee a prince and a iudge? the same God sent for a prince, and a deliuerer by the hand of the Angel, which appeared to him in the bush.