Acts 7:17
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Acts 7:17
17 But when the time of the promise drew nigh, which God had sworn to Abraham, the people grew and multiplied in Egypt,
Chapter Context
Acts 7 is a historical narrative chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of worship, redemption, faith. 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 contributes to the biblical metanarrative of redemption. 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 7:17
17 But when the time of the promise drew nigh, which God had sworn to Abraham, the people grew and multiplied in Egypt,
Analysis
The 'time of the promise drew nigh' indicates God's perfect timing in fulfilling covenant promises. Four hundred years of Egyptian sojourn (Genesis 15:13) were approaching completion. The people's multiplication demonstrates God's faithfulness despite oppression—pressure increased as blessing increased. God's sovereign timing guarantees that promises will be fulfilled at the appointed moment, though from human perspective the wait seems long.
Historical Context
The 400/430-year Egyptian sojourn (Exodus 12:40) began as welcome settlement but transformed into slavery as Egyptians feared Hebrew population growth. Exodus 1:7 describes their multiplication as explosive: 'the children of Israel were fruitful, and increased abundantly, and multiplied, and waxed exceeding mighty.'
Reflection
- How does God's perfect timing in fulfilling promises encourage patient faith when fulfillment seems delayed?
- What does Israel's multiplication under oppression teach us about God's blessing working through opposition?
Word Studies
- God: Θεός (Theos) G2316 - God