Acts 7:12
But when Jacob heard that there was corn in Egypt, he sent out our fathers first.
Original Language Analysis
Ἰακὼβ
when Jacob
G2384
Ἰακὼβ
when Jacob
Strong's:
G2384
Word #:
3 of 12
jacob (i.e., ja`akob), the progenitor of the israelites
ἐξαπέστειλεν
he sent out
G1821
ἐξαπέστειλεν
he sent out
Strong's:
G1821
Word #:
8 of 12
to send away forth, i.e., (on a mission) to despatch, or (peremptorily) to dismiss
τοὺς
G3588
τοὺς
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
9 of 12
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
Historical Context
Egypt's grain storage during seven abundant years created surplus for the subsequent famine years. Egypt's Nile-based irrigation made it less vulnerable to regional droughts affecting Canaan. Ancient trade networks would have spread news of available grain, reaching Jacob in Canaan. The journey from Hebron to Egypt took several weeks.
Questions for Reflection
- How does God's preparation of Joseph before the famine demonstrates His foreknowledge and provision for His people?
- What does Jacob's immediate response to news of provision teach us about taking action on God's provision?
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Analysis & Commentary
Jacob's hearing of corn in Egypt (Genesis 42:1-2) demonstrates God's providential provision through previous planning. God had positioned Joseph as Egypt's administrator years earlier, preparing deliverance before the need arose. Jacob's sending 'our fathers' (the eleven brothers) initiates the family's migration, fulfilling God's prophecy to Abraham (Gen. 15:13-14). This 'first' time sets up their later return and permanent settlement.