Acts 7:58

They dragged him out of the city and began to stone him. Meanwhile the witnesses laid their garments at the feet of a young man named Saul.

Study Bible

They dragged him out of the city
This phrase indicates the violent and forceful removal of Stephen from the city, which is consistent with the Jewish custom of executing someone outside the city limits, as seen in Leviticus 24:14. The Greek word used here, "ἐξέβαλον" (exebalon), suggests a forceful expulsion, emphasizing the hostility and urgency of the mob. Historically, this act reflects the Jewish leaders' adherence to the law, even in their anger, as executions were not to defile the city. This moment also foreshadows the treatment of Jesus, who was crucified outside Jerusalem, drawing a parallel between Stephen's martyrdom and Christ's sacrifice.

and began to stone him
Stoning was a common method of execution for blasphemy under Jewish law, as prescribed in Deuteronomy 17:7. The Greek word "λιθοβολεῖν" (lithobolein) means to throw stones, indicating a communal act of judgment and punishment. This method was not only a means of execution but also a public declaration of the community's rejection of the accused. The act of stoning Stephen marks him as the first Christian martyr, setting a precedent for the persecution of early Christians and highlighting the cost of discipleship.

Meanwhile, the witnesses laid their garments
The "witnesses" here refers to those who testified against Stephen, as required by Jewish law, which stated that the witnesses of a crime should be the first to act in the execution (Deuteronomy 17:7). The Greek term "μάρτυρες" (martyres) is significant, as it later evolves to mean "martyrs," those who bear witness to their faith through suffering or death. Laying their garments down was a practical act to avoid soiling their clothes during the stoning, but it also symbolically represents their role in the execution, as they prepare to cast the first stones.

at the feet of a young man named Saul
This introduction of Saul, who later becomes the Apostle Paul, is pivotal. The Greek word "νεανίου" (neaniou) indicates a young man, suggesting Saul's potential and the beginning of his significant role in the early church. Saul's presence and approval of Stephen's execution highlight the initial opposition to the Christian movement from within Judaism. This moment marks the beginning of Saul's journey from a persecutor of Christians to one of the most influential apostles, illustrating the transformative power of God's grace. Saul's later conversion becomes a powerful testimony to the redemptive possibilities within God's plan.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Stephen
A deacon in the early church, full of faith and the Holy Spirit, who was performing great wonders and signs among the people. He was the first Christian martyr.

2. Saul
A young man who later becomes the Apostle Paul. At this point, he is a zealous Pharisee who approves of Stephen's execution.

3. The Witnesses
Those who falsely accused Stephen of blasphemy and participated in his stoning. According to Jewish law, witnesses were required to cast the first stones.

4. The City
Refers to Jerusalem, the center of Jewish religious life and the location of the early church's beginnings.

5. Stoning
A method of execution prescribed in the Law of Moses for certain offenses, including blasphemy. It was a communal act, symbolizing the community's rejection of the accused.

Teaching Points

The Cost of Discipleship
Stephen's martyrdom reminds us that following Christ may lead to persecution and suffering. Believers are called to stand firm in their faith, even in the face of opposition.

The Role of Witnesses
The involvement of witnesses in Stephen's stoning highlights the importance of integrity and truthfulness in our testimonies. As Christians, we must ensure our words and actions align with God's truth.

God's Sovereignty in Persecution
Despite the tragedy of Stephen's death, God used it to advance His kingdom. Persecution led to the spread of the Gospel beyond Jerusalem, showing that God can bring good out of evil.

Transformation through Christ
Saul's presence at Stephen's stoning and his later conversion demonstrate the power of God's grace to transform even the hardest hearts. No one is beyond the reach of God's redemption.

Community and Accountability
The communal act of stoning reflects the collective responsibility of the community. In the church, we are called to hold one another accountable in love and truth.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Stephen's example challenge you to stand firm in your faith, even when facing opposition or persecution?

2. In what ways can you ensure that your testimony and actions align with the truth of the Gospel, especially when witnessing to others?

3. Reflect on a time when God brought good out of a difficult situation in your life. How does this encourage you to trust in His sovereignty?

4. Consider Saul's transformation into the Apostle Paul. How does this account inspire you to pray for those who seem far from God?

5. How can you foster a sense of community and accountability within your church or small group, ensuring that it is rooted in love and truth?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Acts 8:1
This verse describes Saul's approval of Stephen's execution and the subsequent persecution of the church, leading to the spread of the Gospel.

Acts 9:1-19
Saul's conversion on the road to Damascus, highlighting the transformative power of Christ.

Deuteronomy 17:7
The law requiring witnesses to be the first to cast stones, emphasizing the seriousness of their testimony.

Matthew 5:10-12
Jesus' teaching on the blessedness of those who are persecuted for righteousness' sake, which can be seen in Stephen's martyrdom.