◄ Acts 7 ►
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Summary Stephen’s Address and Stoning Acts 7 showcases Stephen's boldness in proclaiming God's truth, despite knowing it could lead to his death. It serves as a stark reminder of the cost of discipleship. Stephen's steadfast faith, his vision of Jesus in his final moments, and his Christlike forgiveness towards his killers combine to form a deeply moving testimony of unwavering commitment to the Gospel. Verses 1-53: Stephen's Defense and Accusations Against the Religious Leaders Asked if the charges against him are true, Stephen launches into an eloquent and thorough recounting of Israel's history. He begins with God's call to Abraham, covers Joseph's rise to power in Egypt, and emphasizes Moses' leadership during the exodus and the giving of the Law at Mount Sinai. He also speaks of David and Solomon and the building of the temple. Stephen then accuses his accusers of being stiff-necked and resistant to the Holy Spirit, just like their ancestors. He charges them with betraying and murdering the Righteous One, Jesus Christ. Verses 54-60: Stephen's Vision and Death When the council members hear these accusations, they are enraged. However, filled with the Holy Spirit, Stephen looks up to heaven, sees the glory of God and Jesus standing at God's right hand, and shares this vision with the council. They drag him out of the city and begin to stone him. As he dies, Stephen prays for the Lord to receive his spirit and not to hold this sin against his killers. Among the witnesses of this event is Saul, who later becomes the apostle Paul. Acts 7 features Stephen's impassioned defense before the Sanhedrin, wherein he recounts Israel's history, highlighting God's faithfulness. He charges the religious leaders with hypocrisy, stirring their anger. The climax of the chapter is Stephen's vision of Jesus, his bold proclamation, and his consequent stoning—making him the first Christian martyr. Teaching Points Stephen's Defense Stephen's speech (Acts 7:2-53) is a masterful recounting of Israel's history, highlighting God's faithfulness and Israel's repeated disobedience. He emphasizes that God's presence is not confined to any one place, such as the temple. God's Faithfulness Stephen recounts the stories of Abraham, Joseph, and Moses, illustrating how God was with His people even when they were in foreign lands (Acts 7:9-10, 7:30-34). Rejection of the Prophets Stephen points out that the Israelites consistently rejected the prophets sent by God, culminating in their rejection of Jesus, the Righteous One (Acts 7:51-52). Vision of Glory As Stephen is about to be stoned, he sees a vision of Jesus standing at the right hand of God, affirming his faith and mission (Acts 7:55-56). Martyrdom and Forgiveness Stephen's final words echo those of Jesus on the cross, as he asks for forgiveness for his persecutors (Acts 7:60). Practical Applications Boldness in Faith Like Stephen, we are called to stand firm in our faith, even when faced with opposition or persecution. Understanding Scripture Stephen's deep knowledge of Scripture enabled him to articulate his faith clearly. We should strive to know God's Word intimately. Forgiveness Stephen's example of forgiving his persecutors challenges us to forgive those who wrong us, following Christ's example. God's Presence Recognize that God's presence is not limited to a building or location; He is with us wherever we go. People 1. Abraham Stephen begins his speech by referencing Abraham, the patriarch of the Israelites. He is called by God to leave his homeland and is promised that his descendants will inherit the land. The Greek name used is "Ἀβραάμ" (Abraam). 2. Isaac Isaac is mentioned as the son of Abraham, through whom the covenant promises are continued. The Greek name is "Ἰσαάκ" (Isaak). 3. Jacob Jacob, the son of Isaac, is the father of the twelve patriarchs of Israel. The Greek name is "Ἰακώβ" (Iakob). 4. The Twelve Patriarchs These are the sons of Jacob, who become the leaders of the twelve tribes of Israel. They are not named individually in this chapter, but they are collectively referred to as "οἱ δώδεκα πατριάρχαι" (hoi dōdeka patriarchai). 5. Joseph Joseph, one of Jacob's sons, is sold into slavery by his brothers but rises to power in Egypt. The Greek name is "Ἰωσήφ" (Iōsēph). 6. Pharaoh The king of Egypt during Joseph's time, who appoints Joseph as a ruler over Egypt. The Greek term used is "Φαραώ" (Pharaō). 7. Moses Moses is a central figure in Stephen's speech, known for leading the Israelites out of Egypt. The Greek name is "Μωϋσῆς" (Mōusēs). 8. Aaron Aaron, the brother of Moses, is mentioned in the context of the Israelites' idolatry with the golden calf. The Greek name is "Ἀαρών" (Aarōn). 9. David King David is mentioned as the one who found favor with God and desired to build a dwelling place for the God of Jacob. The Greek name is "Δαυίδ" (Dauid). 10. Solomon Solomon, the son of David, is noted for building the temple in Jerusalem. The Greek name is "Σολομῶν" (Solomōn). Places 1. Mesopotamia Stephen refers to Mesopotamia as the land where God called Abraham before he lived in Haran. This region, known in Greek as "Μεσοποταμία" (Mesopotamia), is historically significant as the cradle of early civilization and the starting point of Abraham's journey of faith. Acts 7:2: "Brothers and fathers, listen to me! The God of glory appeared to our father Abraham while he was still in Mesopotamia, before he lived in Haran." 2. Haran Haran is the place where Abraham settled after leaving Mesopotamia. It is located in the region of Paddan Aram, in modern-day Turkey. Acts 7:4: "So he left the land of the Chaldeans and settled in Haran. After his father died, God had him move to this land where you now live." 3. Egypt Egypt is mentioned multiple times as the place where Joseph was sold into slavery and where the Israelites later became enslaved. The Greek term "Αἴγυπτος" (Aigyptos) is used. Acts 7:9-10: "Because the patriarchs were jealous of Joseph, they sold him as a slave into Egypt. But God was with him and rescued him from all his troubles." 4. Canaan Canaan is the land promised to Abraham and his descendants. It is the region where the Israelites eventually settled. Acts 7:11: "Then a famine struck all Egypt and Canaan, bringing great affliction, and our fathers could not find food." 5. Shechem Shechem is the place where Abraham bought a burial plot, which later became the burial site for Joseph's bones. Acts 7:16: "Their bones were carried back to Shechem and placed in the tomb that Abraham had bought for a sum of silver from the sons of Hamor at Shechem." 6. Mount Sinai Mount Sinai is where Moses received the Law from God. It is a significant location in the history of Israel's covenant with God. Acts 7:30: "After forty years had passed, an angel appeared to Moses in the flames of a burning bush in the desert near Mount Sinai." 7. Wilderness The wilderness is where the Israelites wandered for forty years after leaving Egypt. It represents a period of testing and reliance on God. Acts 7:36: "He led them out and performed wonders and signs in the land of Egypt, at the Red Sea, and for forty years in the wilderness." Events 1. Stephen's Defense Begins Stephen addresses the Sanhedrin, starting his defense by recounting the history of Israel, beginning with Abraham. He emphasizes God's call to Abraham and the promise given to him. ^"Brothers and fathers, listen to me! The God of glory appeared to our father Abraham while he was still in Mesopotamia, before he lived in Haran."^ (Acts 7:2) 2. The Covenant with Abraham Stephen describes God's covenant with Abraham, including the promise of land and descendants, despite Abraham having no child at the time. ^"And God gave him no inheritance here, not even a foot of ground. But God promised to give it to him as a possession and to his descendants after him, even though Abraham was childless."^ (Acts 7:5) 3. The Patriarchs and Joseph He recounts the story of the patriarchs, focusing on Joseph, who was sold into Egypt by his brothers but later became a ruler in Egypt. ^"Because the patriarchs were jealous of Joseph, they sold him as a slave into Egypt. But God was with him."^ (Acts 7:9) 4. Moses and the Exodus Stephen narrates the story of Moses, his upbringing, his flight to Midian, and his return to lead the Israelites out of Egypt. ^"This is the same Moses they had rejected with the words, ‘Who made you ruler and judge?’ He was sent to be their ruler and redeemer by God himself, through the angel who appeared to him in the bush."^ (Acts 7:35) 5. Israel's Rebellion He highlights Israel's rebellion against God during their time in the wilderness, including the worship of the golden calf. ^"But our fathers refused to obey him. Instead, they rejected him and in their hearts turned back to Egypt."^ (Acts 7:39) 6. The Tabernacle and Temple Stephen speaks about the tabernacle of testimony and the temple, emphasizing that God does not dwell in houses made by human hands. ^"However, the Most High does not live in houses made by human hands. As the prophet says: ‘Heaven is My throne, and the earth is My footstool.'"^ (Acts 7:48-49) 7. Stephen's Accusation He accuses the Jewish leaders of resisting the Holy Spirit, just as their ancestors did, and of betraying and murdering the Righteous One, Jesus. ^"You stiff-necked people with uncircumcised hearts and ears! You always resist the Holy Spirit, just as your fathers did."^ (Acts 7:51) 8. Stephen's Vision and Martyrdom Stephen sees a vision of Jesus standing at the right hand of God, and he is subsequently stoned to death, becoming the first Christian martyr. ^"But Stephen, full of the Holy Spirit, looked up to heaven and saw the glory of God, and Jesus standing at the right hand of God."^ (Acts 7:55) Connections to Additional Scriptures Hebrews 11:1-40 The Hall of Faith chapter, which recounts the faith of many Old Testament figures, similar to Stephen's recounting of Israel's history. Matthew 5:10-12 Jesus' teaching on the blessings of being persecuted for righteousness' sake. Luke 23:34 Jesus' words of forgiveness on the cross, paralleled by Stephen's final prayer. Prayer Points Pray for the courage to stand firm in your faith, even in the face of adversity. Ask God for a deeper understanding and love for His Word, as demonstrated by Stephen. Seek the strength to forgive those who have wronged you, following the example of Stephen and Jesus. Thank God for His constant presence and faithfulness throughout history and in your own life. Bible Study Questions 1. How does Stephen's recounting of Israel's history emphasize God's faithfulness and sovereignty? 2. What can we learn from Stephen's courage when facing religious opposition? 3. How does Stephen's speech critique the religious leaders of his time? 4. How does Stephen's vision of Jesus impact your understanding of Jesus' role in the believer's life? 5. Why does Stephen choose to recount the history of Israel as his defense? 6. In what ways does Stephen's martyrdom exemplify his faithfulness to the Gospel? 7. What is the significance of Saul's presence at Stephen's stoning? 8. How does Stephen's prayer as he is being stoned reflect his Christlike character? 9. What parallels and contrasts can you draw between Stephen's death and Jesus' crucifixion? 10. How does Stephen's account of Israel's history tie in with the charges he was facing? 11. How does this chapter challenge your own faith and commitment to Christ? 12. How does Stephen's response to persecution inform your approach to conflict and opposition today? 13. How might Stephen's speech to the religious leaders inform our approach to speaking truth to power? 14. How does Stephen's Christlike plea for forgiveness at his death inspire you in your own relationships? 15. What lessons can you draw from the reactions of the members of the Sanhedrin? 16. How does Stephen model for modern believers the right response when falsely accused? 17. In what ways does Stephen's speech and subsequent death illuminate the cost of following Jesus? 18. How does Stephen's perspective on death offer comfort and hope for believers facing persecution today? 19. How can Stephen's boldness inspire your personal witness? 20. How can you apply the lessons of Stephen's life and death in your day-to-day living and interaction with others? Topics 1. Stephen’s Defense before the Sanhedrin Stephen begins his defense by addressing the high priest and recounting the history of Israel, emphasizing God's faithfulness and the people's repeated disobedience. This sets the stage for his argument that the Jewish leaders are resisting the Holy Spirit. 2. The Call of Abraham (Acts 7:2-8) Stephen recounts how God called Abraham to leave his homeland and promised him the land of Canaan. The Greek term "κληρονομία" (kleronomia) is used for "inheritance," highlighting the promise of land and descendants. 3. The Patriarchs in Egypt (Acts 7:9-16) The narrative continues with Joseph being sold into slavery by his brothers, yet God was with him. The Greek word "πατριάρχαι" (patriarchai) refers to the patriarchs, emphasizing their foundational role in Israel's history. 4. The Oppression in Egypt (Acts 7:17-19) Stephen describes the Israelites' suffering in Egypt, setting the stage for God's deliverance through Moses. The Hebrew root "עבד" (avad) for "enslave" underscores the harshness of their bondage. 5. The Birth and Mission of Moses (Acts 7:20-29) Moses' early life and his initial attempt to deliver Israel are recounted. The Greek "σωτήρ" (soter) for "deliverer" is significant, as it foreshadows Christ's role as the ultimate Savior. 6. Moses and the Burning Bush (Acts 7:30-34) God appears to Moses in the burning bush, commissioning him to lead Israel out of Egypt. The term "ἅγιος" (hagios) for "holy" ground emphasizes the divine presence. 7. The Exodus and Wilderness Wanderings (Acts 7:35-43) Stephen recounts the Exodus and Israel's rebellion in the wilderness, highlighting their idolatry. The Greek "ἀποστασία" (apostasia) for "rebellion" underscores their turning away from God. 8. The Tabernacle and Temple (Acts 7:44-50) Stephen discusses the tabernacle and Solomon's temple, emphasizing that God does not dwell in houses made by human hands. The Hebrew "שָׁכַן" (shakan) for "dwell" is key, pointing to God's presence among His people. 9. Stephen’s Accusation of the Sanhedrin (Acts 7:51-53) Stephen accuses the Jewish leaders of resisting the Holy Spirit and betraying and murdering the Righteous One. The Greek "ἀντιπίπτω" (antipipto) for "resist" highlights their opposition to God's work. 10. The Martyrdom of Stephen (Acts 7:54-60) The chapter concludes with Stephen's vision of Jesus at the right hand of God and his subsequent stoning. The Greek "μάρτυς" (martys) for "witness" is significant, as Stephen becomes the first Christian martyr, bearing witness to Christ even unto death. Themes 1. God's Faithfulness to His Promises Stephen recounts the history of Israel, emphasizing God's faithfulness to His promises, starting with Abraham. "The God of glory appeared to our father Abraham" (Acts 7:2). The Greek word for "appeared" (ὤφθη, ophthē) underscores the divine initiative in revealing Himself to Abraham. 2. Rejection of God's Messengers Stephen highlights the pattern of Israel rejecting God's chosen leaders, such as Joseph and Moses. "But our fathers refused to obey him. Instead, they rejected him and in their hearts turned back to Egypt" (Acts 7:39). The Greek term for "rejected" (ἀπώσαντο, apōsanto) indicates a deliberate refusal. 3. God's Presence Beyond the Temple Stephen argues that God's presence is not confined to the temple. "However, the Most High does not dwell in houses made by human hands" (Acts 7:48). The Greek word for "dwell" (κατοικεῖ, katoikei) suggests a permanent residence, which Stephen refutes regarding the temple. 4. The Stiff-necked Nature of Israel Stephen accuses the Jewish leaders of being "stiff-necked" and resistant to the Holy Spirit. "You stiff-necked people with uncircumcised hearts and ears! You always resist the Holy Spirit" (Acts 7:51). The term "stiff-necked" (σκληροτράχηλοι, sklērotrachēloi) is a metaphor for stubbornness. 5. The Vision of Jesus at God's Right Hand As Stephen is martyred, he sees a vision of Jesus standing at the right hand of God. "Look, I see heaven open and the Son of Man standing at the right hand of God" (Acts 7:56). The Greek word for "standing" (ἑστῶτα, hestōta) implies readiness to act or welcome. 6. Martyrdom and Forgiveness Stephen's martyrdom is marked by his Christ-like forgiveness. "Lord, do not hold this sin against them" (Acts 7:60). The Greek verb for "hold" (στήσῃς, stēsēs) conveys the idea of not charging or accounting the sin to them. Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions