Because the patriarchs were jealous of Joseph, they sold him as a slave into Egypt. But God was with him
9. Now followeth the greatest wickedness of the nation of Israel, that they conspired “Impia et nefaria conspiratione,” by a nefarious and impious conspiracy. together to oppress their innocent brother, which cruelty is contrary “Abhorret,” is abhorrent from. to nature. Neither could the Jews object that it was a private fault of a few; for the infamy reacheth unto all the people.
Stephen is now at the bar before the great council of the nation, indicted for blasphemy: what the witnesses swore against him we had an account of in the foregoing chapter, that he spoke blasphemous words against Moses and God; for he spoke against this holy place and the law. Now here, I. The high priest calls upon him to answer for himself, Act 7:1.
Commenting on Acts 7:1-16
And the patriarchs, moved with envy,.... See Gen 37:11 the sons of Jacob and brethren of Joseph were filled with envy, and enraged at him, because of the evil report of them he brought to his father; and because he had a greater share in his father's love than they had; and because of his dreams, which signified that he should have the dominion over...