What was Egyptian?
The term “Egyptian” in Acts 7:22-29 refers to a person or group from Egypt, a powerful and ancient kingdom located in the northeastern corner of Africa. Egypt plays a significant role throughout Scripture, often representing both a literal geographical kingdom and a spiritual symbol of bondage. In Acts 7, the Egyptian identity is tied to Moses’ early life and his struggle with dual identity—being Hebrew by birth but raised in the Egyptian royal court.
The Greek word used in Acts 7:28 is Αἰγύπτιος (Aigyptios), meaning an Egyptian, one of the people of Egypt. Egypt’s name in Hebrew is מִצְרַיִם (Mitzrayim), which is a dual form and often interpreted as meaning “two straits” or “double trouble,” possibly reflecting the Upper and Lower Kingdoms of ancient Egypt. Egypt is frequently depicted in Scripture as a place of both refuge and oppression.
Where is Egyptian mentioned in the Bible?
The reference to “Egyptian” in Acts 7 occurs in Stephen’s speech before the Sanhedrin, where he recounts Israel’s history. Specifically:
- Acts 7:24 – “He saw one of them being mistreated by an Egyptian, so he went to his defense and avenged him by killing the Egyptian.”
- Acts 7:28 – “Are you thinking of killing me as you killed the Egyptian yesterday?”
This narrative draws directly from Exodus 2:11-15, when Moses, identifying with his fellow Hebrews, intervenes to defend a fellow Israelite who was being beaten by an Egyptian.
What happened in the Bible?
Stephen, the first Christian martyr, recounts the story of Moses as part of his defense before the Jewish council. In Acts 7, he reminds the listeners that Moses was born during a time of Israelite oppression in Egypt. Though raised as an Egyptian prince, Moses was inwardly aligned with his Hebrew heritage. When he saw an Egyptian beating an Israelite, he acted with justice and anger, striking the Egyptian down. The next day, Moses tried to reconcile two fighting Hebrews, but one rebuked him by saying, “Who made you ruler and judge over us? Are you going to kill me as you killed the Egyptian yesterday?” (Acts 7:27-28). Moses fled to Midian, fearing Pharaoh‘s wrath.
This incident marks the pivotal moment in Moses’ life. It led to his exile, his preparation for leadership, and eventually to God‘s call from the burning bush to deliver Israel.
What it means for today’s Christians
The Egyptian in this story represents the oppressive systems of the world that stand in contrast to God’s kingdom. Moses’ act, though rash, demonstrates his identification with God’s people and rejection of worldly power and privilege. Christians today are likewise called to reject the idols, comforts, and injustices of the world system, identifying instead with Christ and His people.
The story warns against using worldly means to bring about God’s purposes. Moses acted before God’s appointed time, relying on his strength rather than divine commission. This teaches believers to wait on God‘s timing and trust in His methods.
How this story points to Jesus and the Gospel
Moses’ rejection by his people foreshadows Christ’s own rejection (John 1:11). Just as Moses sought to deliver his people and was misunderstood and cast out, so Jesus came to save, yet was crucified by those He came to rescue.
Additionally, the death of the Egyptian and Moses’ subsequent exile point to the greater redemption to come. Jesus, the greater deliverer, did not slay His enemies but bore the wrath of God to save both Jews and Gentiles from spiritual Egypt—bondage to sin.
Broader Biblical Themes
1. Deliverance from Egypt as a Pattern of Salvation
Egypt frequently symbolizes sin and bondage. The Exodus is the central Old Testament picture of redemption, often used to explain New Testament salvation (cf. 1 Corinthians 10:1-4).
2. God’s Sovereignty Over Nations
Egypt, despite its power, could not thwart God‘s purposes. He used Egypt to preserve Israel (Genesis 50:20), to humble them (Exodus), and to display His power (Exodus 9:16).
3. The Rejection of the Deliverer
Both Moses and Jesus were initially rejected by the people they came to save. This theme echoes through Scripture and highlights God‘s grace in raising up rejected leaders for redemption.
4. Identity and Calling
Moses’ story invites reflection on calling and identity. Though raised in the house of Pharaoh, Moses’ heart belonged to the people of God. Believers today are likewise in the world but not of it (John 17:14-16), called to live out their identity in Christ.
Reflection Questions
- What worldly comforts or systems might you be tempted to rely on instead of God?
- In what ways have you seen God use rejection or failure to shape your spiritual calling?
- How can the story of Moses and the Egyptian deepen your understanding of what it means to identify with God‘s people?
- Are there ways you might be trying to fulfill God‘s purposes in your life using your own strength rather than trusting His timing?
- What “Egypt” has God called you out of, and how can you help others find freedom in Christ?
The Egyptian in Acts 7 serves not merely as a historical character but as a symbol in the grand redemptive story—one that points ultimately to Jesus, the perfect Deliverer who sets His people free not by killing, but by laying down His life.