And at the second time Joseph was made known to his brethren; and Joseph's kindred was made known unto Pharaoh.

ACTS 7:13KJV
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Acts 7:13 (KJV)

What does Acts 7:13 mean?

Acts 7:13 describes how, during Joseph’s second meeting with his brothers in Egypt, he revealed his true identity to them, and at that point, Pharaoh also learned about Joseph’s family. The verse highlights the moment when Joseph’s relationship with his brothers and his family’s existence became known to the Egyptian ruler.

Stephen is speaking to the Jewish council, recounting the story of Joseph from Genesis to show how God worked through Israel’s history. In this part of his speech, Stephen points out that Joseph’s brothers did not recognize him at first, but on their second visit, Joseph made himself known, leading to a reunion and the introduction of his family to Pharaoh. This sets up the reason why Jacob and his family eventually moved to Egypt.

Why Acts 7:13 matters

  • Acts 7:13 clarifies that Joseph’s brothers only recognized him on their second visit, emphasizing the theme of delayed recognition and reconciliation in the biblical narrative.
  • By mentioning that Pharaoh learned about Joseph’s family, the verse explains how the Israelites came to settle in Egypt, which is crucial for understanding the later story of their enslavement and deliverance.
  • This verse helps Stephen’s audience see that God’s plans often unfold in unexpected ways and that even rejection or misunderstanding can lead to a greater purpose in the larger story of Israel.

Where else these words appear

“Pharaoh” Greek G5328 · used in 5 verses

  • Acts 7:10 And delivered him out of all his afflictions, and gave him favour and wisdom in the sight of Pharaoh king of Egypt; and he made him governor over Egypt and all his house.
  • Acts 7:21 And when he was cast out, Pharaoh's daughter took him up, and nourished him for her own son.
  • Romans 9:17 For the scripture saith unto Pharaoh, Even for this same purpose have I raised thee up, that I might shew my power in thee, and that my name might be declared throughout all the earth.

“known” Greek G5318 · used in 19 verses

  • Matthew 6:4 That thine alms may be in secret: and thy Father which seeth in secret himself shall reward thee openly.
  • Mark 6:14 And king Herod heard of him;(for his name was spread abroad:) and he said, That John the Baptist was risen from the dead, and therefore mighty works do shew forth themselves in him.
  • 1 Corinthians 11:19 For there must be also heresies among you, that they which are approved may be made manifest among you.

“kindred” Greek G1085 · used in 21 verses

  • Matthew 13:47 Again, the kingdom of heaven is like unto a net, that was cast into the sea, and gathered of every kind:
  • Acts 7:19 The same dealt subtilly with our kindred, and evil entreated our fathers, so that they cast out their young children, to the end they might not live.
  • 1 Corinthians 12:28 And God hath set some in the church, first apostles, secondarily prophets, thirdly teachers, after that miracles, then gifts of healings, helps, governments, diversities of tongues.

“Joseph” Greek G2501 · used in 34 verses

  • Matthew 1:16 And Jacob begat Joseph the husband of Mary, of whom was born Jesus, who is called Christ.
  • Luke 1:27 To a virgin espoused to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of David; and the virgin's name was Mary.
  • John 1:45 Philip findeth Nathanael, and saith unto him, We have found him, of whom Moses in the law, and the prophets, did write, Jesus of Nazareth, the son of Joseph.