New Testament
Acts 7:6
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
God told him that his descendants would live as foreigners in a land that wasn't theirs, where they'd be enslaved and mistreated for 400 years.
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And God spake on this wise, That his seed should sojourn in a strange land; and that they should bring them into bondage, and entreat them evil four hundred years.
What Acts 7:6 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this passage, God reveals a difficult future for Abraham's descendants. He tells Abraham that they will live in a foreign land, which means they will be away from their home and familiar surroundings. This land will not be welcoming; instead, they will face hardship and oppression. For 400 years, they will endure slavery and mistreatment. This prophecy highlights the challenges that can come with faith and the long wait for deliverance. It serves as a reminder that even in tough times, there is a purpose and a plan. God’s promise to Abraham includes both the struggles and the eventual triumph of his descendants. This story encourages us to trust in God’s timing, even when circumstances seem bleak. It shows that trials can lead to growth and a deeper understanding of faith, as well as the importance of hope in the face of adversity. Ultimately, it emphasizes that God is aware of our struggles and has a plan for our future, even when we cannot see it clearly at the moment.
How to apply Acts 7:6 to your life
When facing difficult times, remember that challenges can lead to growth. Trust that there is a purpose behind your struggles, even if it’s not clear right now. Keep faith in the promise of better days ahead, and lean on your community for support during tough moments. Your journey may inspire others as well!
Curated for this public verse page. Acts Summary
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Keep studying Acts 7:6
Related Bible verses
Related topics
At a Glance — the Book of Acts
- Author
- Luke the physician
- Written
- Around AD 62
- Genre
- Historical narrative
- Original Audience
- Gentile Christians (addressed to Theophilus)
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Acts 7:6 mean?
Acts 7:6 conveys God's message to Abraham that his descendants will live in a foreign land and endure slavery and mistreatment for 400 years. This verse highlights the challenges and hardships that will come before their eventual deliverance.
What is the significance of the 400 years in Acts 7:6?
The 400 years mentioned in Acts 7:6 signifies a long period of suffering and oppression for Abraham's descendants. It underscores the theme of endurance and the testing of faith before the fulfillment of God's promises.
What does 'foreigners in a land that wasn't theirs' mean in Acts 7:6?
In Acts 7:6, 'foreigners in a land that wasn't theirs' refers to Abraham's descendants living outside their homeland, facing alienation and hardship. This phrase emphasizes their vulnerability and the challenges they will face in a place that is not welcoming.
How does Acts 7:6 relate to the theme of hope?
Acts 7:6 relates to hope by reminding readers that despite the predicted suffering of Abraham's descendants, there is a promise of eventual deliverance. It encourages believers to maintain faith in God's plan, even during difficult times.
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