Acts 7:37
This is that Moses, which said unto the children of Israel, A prophet shall the Lord your God raise up unto you of your brethren, like unto me; him shall ye hear.
Acts 7:37 · King James Version
Meaning
In this verse, Moses is referring to the future coming of a prophet who would be raised up by the Lord God among the Israelites. This prophet would be like Moses in many ways, serving as a mediator between God and the people, delivering divine messages, and providing guidance and leadership. The phrase "like unto me" indicates that this prophet would have a special relationship with God, just as Moses did. The instruction to "hear him" emphasizes the importance of listening to and obeying the teachings and guidance of this prophet. This prophecy is often interpreted as a foreshadowing of the coming of Jesus Christ, who is considered by Christians to be the ultimate prophet and savior sent by God. As believers read and reflect on this verse, they are reminded of the faithfulness of God in fulfilling his promises and providing a way for his people to receive divine guidance and redemption.
Theological Overview
The theological interpretation of this verse focuses on the prophecy given by Moses to the children of Israel regarding the coming of a prophet like himself, whom the Lord their God will raise up from among their brethren. This prophecy is seen by many scholars as a foreshadowing of the arrival of Jesus Christ, who would be a prophet and a leader similar to Moses. The similarities between Moses and Jesus include their roles as mediators between God and the people, their ability to perform miracles, and their teachings about God's laws and commandments. In the New Testament, Jesus is often referred to as the "Prophet" foretold by Moses, emphasizing his authority and divinity. The fulfillment of this prophecy in Jesus Christ is significant in Christian theology as it highlights the continuity of God's plan for salvation throughout history.
Acts 7:37 in other translations
American Standard Version
This is that Moses, who said unto the children of Israel, A prophet shall God raise up unto you from among your brethren, like unto me.
World English Bible
This is that Moses, who said to the children of Israel, ‘The Lord our God will raise up a prophet for you from among your brothers, like me.’
Douay-Rheims
This is that Moses who said to the children of Israel: A prophet shall God raise up to you of your own brethren, as myself. Him shall you hear.
Geneva Bible (1599)
This is that Moses, which saide vnto the children of Israel, A Prophet shall the Lord your God raise vp vnto you, euen of your brethren, like vnto me: him shall ye heare.