Acts 7:51
Afrikaans DB 2006 (Die Boodskap)
“Julle klomp hardekoppe. Julle dra miskien die teken van die besnydenis aan julle liggaam, maar julle harte en julle koppe is nog glad nie besny nie. Julle doen net mooi niks wat God vir julle sê om te doen nie. Julle luister nie na die Heilige Gees se stem nie.
What Does This Mean?
This verse is Stephen talking to a group of people who are being stubborn and not listening to God's message. He says they are resisting the Holy Spirit, just like their ancestors did before them.
Explained for Children
Imagine you have a friend who never listens when you try to share something important with them. It’s as if their ears and hearts are closed tight. Stephen is telling some people that they’re doing this with God’s message, just like the people from long ago didn’t listen either.
Historical Background
The Book of Acts was written by Luke around 60-80 AD. This particular passage records Stephen's speech before the Sanhedrin in Jerusalem, where he criticizes them for resisting divine messages and not following God’s will, echoing a pattern seen throughout Jewish history.
Living It Out Today
Today, this could apply to someone who is resistant to change or new ideas, especially when it comes to spiritual growth. Like ignoring advice from wise teachers because you think you know better, even though that might lead you astray.
Topics
stubbornnessresistance to God's willspiritual growthhistorical patterns of resistancelistening to divine messagesancestral behavior
Related Verses
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is speaking in Acts 7:51?
Stephen, a deacon and early Christian martyr, is the one speaking. He was addressing the Sanhedrin.
What does 'stiff-necked' mean in this context?
It means stubborn or resistant to change, especially when it comes to following God's commands or messages.
How can we apply this verse today?
We can look at our own lives and consider if we are being resistant to spiritual growth or God’s guidance, much like the people Stephen was addressing.
Why does Stephen compare them to their ancestors?
Stephen is pointing out that there's a historical pattern of resistance to God among this group, emphasizing that they’re continuing an old habit of not listening.