Acts 7:11
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Acts 7:11
11 Now there came a dearth over all the land of Egypt and Chanaan, and great affliction: and our fathers found no sustenance.
Chapter Context
Acts 7 is a historical narrative chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of prayer, judgment, truth. Written during the late first century CE (c. 80-85 CE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Chronicles Christianity's spread across the Roman Empire despite official and unofficial opposition.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-60: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it foreshadows Christ's work through typology and prophetic elements. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Acts and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Acts 7:11
11 Now there came a dearth over all the land of Egypt and Chanaan, and great affliction: and our fathers found no sustenance.
Analysis
Stephen recounts Joseph's story to show God's sovereign providential care through adversity. The famine affecting 'all' Egypt and Canaan demonstrates God's control over nature to accomplish His purposes—bringing Jacob's family to Egypt where they would multiply into a nation. The 'great affliction' served God's redemptive plan, teaching that suffering often precedes deliverance in God's economy. Our fathers found 'no sustenance,' pointing to human helplessness and divine provision.
Historical Context
The seven-year famine (Gen. 41-42) occurred around 1700 BC during the Hyksos period of Egyptian history. Such famines in the ancient Near East resulted from failed Nile floods, which provided Egypt's agricultural irrigation. Canaan depended on rainfall, making it vulnerable to drought. Stephen's audience knew this Genesis account intimately.
Reflection
- How does God's use of famine to relocate His people demonstrate His sovereignty over natural events for redemptive purposes?
- What does this account teach us about God's providence working through seemingly tragic circumstances?