What did Stephen mean when he compared Joseph's recognition to Israel recognizing the Messiah?
Stephen meant that Israel’s recognition of the Messiah follows the same pattern as Joseph’s recognition: it comes the second time. Just as Joseph was recognized at his second time, Israel will recognize and acclaim Christ at His second coming, after having rejected Him the first time.
Les explains that Stephen’s lesson centers on a pattern of second-time recognition. Joseph was recognized at his second time, and in the same way Israel will recognize the Messiah the second time. Moses also came to deliver Israel, was rejected the first time, but when he came the second time they followed him and he became their deliverer. Les applies this same concept to Christ: the first time Israel rejected Him, but the second time they will acclaim Him.