New Testament
Acts 7:40
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In this moment, the people of Israel are feeling lost and uncertain.
- Author
- Luke the physician
- Written
- Around AD 62
- Genre
- Historical narrative
- Original Audience
- Gentile Christians (addressed to Theophilus)
telling Aaron, 'Make us gods who will lead us, because this Moses who brought us out of Egypt — we don't know what's happened to him.'
Saying unto Aaron, Make us gods to go before us: for as for this Moses, which brought us out of the land of Egypt, we wot not what is become of him.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this moment, the people of Israel are feeling lost and uncertain. They have just witnessed incredible miracles through Moses, but now he has disappeared into the mountain, leaving them anxious and confused. Instead of trusting in the God who saved them, they turn to Aaron, asking him to create new gods to lead them. This reflects a deep-seated fear and a desire for something tangible to follow. They want reassurance and direction, but they are looking in the wrong place. Their request reveals a lack of faith and understanding of the true God who has been with them. This moment serves as a powerful reminder of how easily we can stray from our beliefs when faced with uncertainty. Instead of waiting for guidance, they choose to create their own path, which ultimately leads to trouble. This story challenges us to reflect on where we place our trust and how we respond in times of doubt and fear, urging us to seek the true source of guidance and strength in our lives instead of turning to false idols.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Acts 7:40 to your life
When faced with uncertainty, it's easy to seek quick solutions that may not align with our values. Instead of rushing to create our own answers, we should take a moment to reflect and seek guidance from our beliefs. Trusting in a higher purpose can provide clarity and direction during challenging times. Remember, true strength comes from faith, not from creating our own idols or distractions. Stay grounded in what truly matters.
Curated for this public verse page. Acts Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Acts 7:40 mean?
Acts 7:40 describes a moment when the Israelites, feeling lost without Moses, ask Aaron to make them new gods to lead them. This reflects their fear and lack of faith in God, as they seek tangible reassurance instead of trusting in the God who delivered them from Egypt.
What is the significance of the request for gods in Acts 7:40?
The request for new gods in Acts 7:40 highlights the Israelites' struggle with faith and their desire for visible leadership. It shows how quickly people can turn to idolatry when faced with uncertainty, abandoning their trust in God.
What does the phrase 'we don't know what's happened to him' in Acts 7:40 indicate?
The phrase 'we don't know what's happened to him' indicates the Israelites' anxiety and confusion about Moses' absence. It underscores their feelings of abandonment and their desperate need for guidance during a time of uncertainty.
How does Acts 7:40 relate to themes of leadership and trust?
Acts 7:40 illustrates a breakdown in leadership and trust, as the people turn to Aaron for new gods instead of relying on God. This moment serves as a reminder of the importance of faith in true leadership, especially during challenging times.

The Book of Acts
Acts 1: The Ascension and the Choosing of Matthias
Jesus shows himself alive to the apostles after his suffering, speaking about the kingdom of God. He commands them not to leave Jerusalem but to wait for the promise of the Father, saying they will be baptized with the Holy Ghost soon. They ask if he will restore the kingdom to Israel, and he tells them it is not for them to know the times, but they will receive power when the Holy Ghost comes upon them and will be witnesses in Jerusalem, Judaea, Samaria, and to the ends of the earth. As they watch, he is taken up, and a cloud receives him out of their sight. Two men in white apparel tell them that this same Jesus will return in the same way they have seen him go.
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