Acts 7:50
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Acts 7:50
50 Hath not my hand made all these things?
Chapter Context
Acts 7 is a historical narrative chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of judgment, worship, wisdom. 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 reveals key aspects of God's character through divine actions and declarations. 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 7:50
50 Hath not my hand made all these things?
Analysis
The concluding question 'hath not my hand made all these things?' asserts God's sovereignty as Creator of all. Since God created everything, nothing we build or offer adds to His glory - all belongs to Him already. This dismantles human pride and establishes the foundation for grace: if God made everything, our righteousness is filthy rags and salvation must be entirely His work. The Reformed doctrine of sola gratia (grace alone) rests on this truth - we contribute nothing to our salvation because we possess nothing God has not first given.
Historical Context
This echoes the creation account in Genesis and God's question to Job (38-41). Stephen's use of Isaiah shows continuity of prophetic witness against empty ritualism divorced from heart reality across Israel's history.
Reflection
- If God made everything, what can we possibly offer Him that is our own?
- How does God's creative sovereignty establish the foundation for salvation by grace alone?
- In what ways do we subtly try to bring God something we think He needs?
Cross-References
- Creation: Acts 14:15, Jeremiah 32:17