Definition: Wilt thou kill me, as thou diddest the Egyptian yesterday?
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this incredibly powerful and unsettling passage from Acts 7:28. It’s a deeply complex and dramatic moment in the story of Jesus. Here's an explanation designed to be clear and understandable: The Context - A Serious Situation This verse comes after Jesus has just challenged the religious leaders of Jerusalem, who are accusing him of being a threat. They’re essentially asking, “Why do you persecute us? Why are you trying to kill us?” They’re feeling threatened by his growing influence and the potential for rebellion. What it Means - A Powerful Warning The verse is a terrifying warning from God Himself. It's not about Jesus being physically harmed; it’s about a profound, spiritual threat. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: “Wilt thou kill me…” : This isn't a question of physical violence. It’s a metaphorical death – a death to his divine authority, his message, and ultimately, his life as the Messiah (the promised one). "...as thou diddest the Egyptian yesterday?" : This is the crucial part that connects it to Jesus’ previous teachings about the Old Testament. The Egyptians were commanded to kill Moses, and Moses killed them. This parallels the challenge Jesus is facing from the religious leaders. The Meaning - A Test of Faith & God's Sovereignty God’s Perspective: The verse highlights that God isn’t just concerned with human lives. He sees the potential for chaos and rebellion, and he’s taking action to prevent it. Test of Obedience: It’s a test of whether Jesus is truly obedient to God's will. If he were to yield to the challenge, it could lead to disaster for the Jewish people and potentially for the entire world. God's Sovereignty: The verse emphasizes that God has ultimate control over all things. He isn’t just reacting to human actions; He is actively intervening in history to ensure justice and protect His people. In essence, this verse speaks to a profound moment of divine judgment against those who seek to undermine the Messiah. It's a glimpse into the immense power and authority of God. Important Note: This passage is incredibly symbolic and open to interpretation. It’s been debated for centuries, and there are various theological perspectives on its meaning. --- Do you want me to: Explain another part of this passage? Discuss the historical context of this verse? Explore a specific theological interpretation of it?