The verse marks the turning point in Egypt when a new king came to power who did not know Joseph, setting the stage for the changed treatment of the Israelites. It belongs to Stephen's defense before the council in answer to the charge of blasphemy, in which he rehearsed the history of the chosen people and God's dealings with them from Abraham onward. He traced that history through successive generations in the national records of Israel down to Solomon, choosing the most impressive points to vindicate his cause.
He delivered this historical survey in a clear, thrilling voice that held the assembly spellbound. His address showed thorough knowledge of the Jewish system and of its spiritual meaning now made plain through Christ. Through this review he showed that Christ had been foretold and that his hearers were repeating their ancestors' rejection of God's messengers.
The verse also belongs to Stephen's preaching of Christ from the Old Testament scriptures beginning with Moses and the prophets, giving inspired proof of His mission, suffering, death, resurrection and ascension and proving His identity as the Messiah. It shows that it was the voice of Christ speaking through the prophets and patriarchs from the days of Adam. Christ is the key unlocking the Old Testament and giving access to its rich treasures.
The verse marks the turning point in Egypt when a new king came to power who did not know Joseph, setting the stage for the changed treatment of the Israelites. It belongs to Stephen's defense before the council in answer to the charge of blasphemy, in which he rehearsed the history of the chosen people and God's dealings with them from Abraham onward. He traced that history through successive generations in the national records of Israel down to Solomon, choosing the most impressive points to vindicate his cause.
He delivered this historical survey in a clear, thrilling voice that held the assembly spellbound. His address showed thorough knowledge of the Jewish system and of its spiritual meaning now made plain through Christ. Through this review he showed that Christ had been foretold and that his hearers were repeating their ancestors' rejection of God's messengers.
The verse also belongs to Stephen's preaching of Christ from the Old Testament scriptures beginning with Moses and the prophets, giving inspired proof of His mission, suffering, death, resurrection and ascension and proving His identity as the Messiah. It shows that it was the voice of Christ speaking through the prophets and patriarchs from the days of Adam. Christ is the key unlocking the Old Testament and giving access to its rich treasures.