"Then what does the Scripture say? 'Abraham believed God, and it was counted to him as righteousness.'" This verse directly quotes Genesis 15:6, which serves as the foundation for the doctrine of justification by faith. Abraham's faith is thus highlighted as a model for all believers.
"I mean this: The law, which came 430 years later, does not annul the covenant previously established by God in a way that invalidates the promise. » In this passage, the apostle Paul refers to the covenant made with Abraham in Genesis 15, thus emphasizing the permanence and validity of God's promise in the face of the Mosaic Law.
"Your descendants will be pilgrims in a foreign land and will be slaves and mistreated for four hundred years. But I will punish the nation they serve as slaves," says God, "and afterward they will leave that land and worship me in this place." » Stephen here highlights the prophecy given to Abraham, highlighting the destiny of Israel and the divine intervention promised by God.
"By faith Abraham—and Sarah, though barren and advanced in years—were given power to bear a son, because he considered him faithful who had promised him. » This passage invites us to reflect on Abraham's unwavering faith in the promise of descendants, a powerful reminder of God's ability to fulfill what He promised.
"The Israelites lived in Egypt for 430 years. At the end of 430 years, on that very day, all the armies of the Lord left Egypt. » This verse testifies to the fulfillment of the prophecy given to Abraham, highlighting the time his descendants would spend in Egypt and God's faithfulness in fulfilling His promises.
By meditating on these passages, we are called to deepen our understanding of the divine covenant and renew our faith in the One who remains faithful to His eternal promises.