Migratory Experiences and Their Significance in Acts 7

The Book of Acts contributes to the theme of migration in different ways. It narrates how the good news of Jesus spread throughout the Eastern Mediterranean world through different migrant missionaries. In addition, two of its major speeches address the past migration experiences of Abraham and his descendants. In Acts 7,2-50, Stephen refers to a variety of the people’s experiences on the way to their land, in the land, in Egypt and during the desert wanderings, and the prospect of exile. Such periods of migration play a key role in his apology. They indicate Stephen’s appreciation for Moses and the law and that God is not bound to a particular place or land. During such periods, while the people of Israel rejected divine saviour figures, they also experienced divine compassion and salvation. In Acts 13,17-25, Paul admonishes his audience not to repeat the mistakes of the past. Paul emphasises God’s providential care for this people, regardless of where they found themselves, and his faithfulness to his promises. The references to past migration experiences contribute significantly to the purpose of Acts, which provides a narrative apology for the disputed missionary endeavour among Jews and non-Jews.