Book of Acts - Chapter 13 - Verse 18

During the Israelites' journey through the wilderness, they continually tested the patience of the Lord with their disobedience and lack of faith. The forty years mentioned in this verse refer to the length of time that the Israelites spent wandering in the wilderness as a consequence of their disobedience and lack of trust in God. Throughout this period, they grumbled, complained, and rebelled against God, despite His continuous provision and protection. The verse serves as a reminder of God's mercy and long-suffering nature, as He patiently endured the Israelites' behavior and continued to guide them towards the Promised Land. It highlights the importance of faith, obedience, and trust in God's plan, as well as the consequences of straying away from His will. By reflecting on this verse, we can learn from the Israelites' mistakes and strive to remain faithful and obedient to God in our own lives.

The phrase "And about the time of forty years suffered he their manners in the wilderness" refers to the period of testing and refinement that the Israelites experienced during their time in the wilderness. The number forty holds significant theological symbolism in the Bible, often representing a period of testing, preparation, or purification. In this context, God allowed the Israelites to wander in the wilderness for forty years as a consequence of their disobedience and lack of faith. The term "suffered" does not imply that God was subject to enduring their behavior, but rather that He allowed them to go through this difficult period as part of His divine plan to teach them important lessons about dependence on Him, obedience, and faithfulness. Through their trials and tribulations in the wilderness, the Israelites were ultimately being shaped and molded into a people who would be prepared to enter the promised land and fulfill God's purposes for them.