Acts 7:1-36

“He supposed that his brothers would understand that God was giving them salvation by his hand, but they did not understand” (v25).  As Stephen was about to be stoned to death by the religious leaders (6:12), he re-told them the familiar story of God’s covenant relationship with Israel. Stephen described Moses as God’s chosen prophet-rescuer, yet Moses’ fellow Israelites didn’t understand.  Stephen made the comparison with Jesus more explicit: Moses, “ruler and redeemer,” was rejected (v35).

“Who made you a ruler and a judge over us?” (v27).  God sent Jesus to deliver us from the bondage of sin – just as the Israelites were delivered from Egypt.  To be our Redeemer, we must also accept Him as judge and king.