Why does Stephen review Israel's history in Acts 7?
Stephen reviews Israel's history to show how God progressively unfolded His plan, preparing the nation for the coming of their King, Messiah, and Redeemer. Beginning with Abraham, he builds the case that God constantly revealed and prepared Israel, leading to the promised King, Messiah, and Redeemer.
Les explains that Acts 7 is a beautiful review of Israel's history. Stephen begins with Abraham, showing how God called him out of the Chaldeans, dwelt in Haran, then moved him into Canaan. Stephen continues building, showing how God was constantly unfolding and revealing His plan, preparing the nation for the coming of their King, Messiah, and Redeemer. He also recalls God's word to Abraham that his seed would sojourn in a strange land, be in bondage and treated evil four hundred years, and afterward come forth and serve God. This historical review supports Stephen's larger point about God's preparation of Israel for the Messiah.
More Questions
What does Stephen do in Acts 7 before he applies the rebuke to his Jewish audience?
Stephen's speech in Acts 7 traces Israel's history all the way up from Abraham, builds on the Abrahamic covenant and the promises made to the nation, and then applies it to his Jewish audience.
How does Stephen build his argument in Acts 7?
Stephen builds his argument in Acts 7 from Abraham and the Abrahamic covenant, then the promises made to the nation of Israel, and finally applies it to his Jewish audience.