Stephen's defense, as recorded in Acts 7, is a pivotal moment in the early Christian church, marking the first martyrdom of a Christian believer. Stephen, one of the seven deacons chosen to serve the early church (Acts 6:5), is brought before the Sanhedrin on charges of blasphemy against Moses and God (Acts 6:11). His defense is a profound and comprehensive recounting of Israel's history, emphasizing God's faithfulness and Israel's repeated disobedience.

Historical Context

Stephen's speech is delivered in Jerusalem, a city central to Jewish religious life and the early Christian movement. The Sanhedrin, the Jewish ruling council, is the audience, and they are deeply entrenched in the traditions and laws of Moses. Stephen, filled with the Holy Spirit, addresses them with respect but also with boldness, challenging their understanding of God's work and purpose.

Structure of the Defense

Stephen's defense can be divided into several key sections, each highlighting a different aspect of Israel's history and God's dealings with His people:

1. The Call of Abraham (Acts 7:2-8): Stephen begins with Abraham, the patriarch of the Jewish nation. He recounts God's call to Abraham to leave his homeland and go to a land that God would show him. Stephen emphasizes God's covenant with Abraham, including the promise of land and descendants, underscoring God's initiative and faithfulness.

“The God of glory appeared to our father Abraham while he was still in Mesopotamia, before he lived in Haran” (Acts 7:2).

2. Joseph and the Patriarchs (Acts 7:9-16): Stephen moves to the account of Joseph, who, despite being rejected by his brothers, becomes a savior for them during a time of famine. This narrative foreshadows Christ, who, though rejected by His own, becomes the Savior of the world.

“But God was with him and rescued him from all his troubles. He gave Joseph wisdom and favor in the sight of Pharaoh, king of Egypt” (Acts 7:9-10).

3. Moses and the Exodus (Acts 7:17-43): A significant portion of Stephen's speech focuses on Moses, the deliverer of Israel. Stephen recounts Moses' life, from his miraculous preservation as an infant to his leadership in the Exodus. He highlights Israel's rebellion against Moses, drawing a parallel to their rejection of Jesus.

“This is the Moses who told the Israelites, ‘God will raise up for you a prophet like me from your own people’” (Acts 7:37).

4. The Tabernacle and the Temple (Acts 7:44-50): Stephen addresses the issue of the temple, a central point of contention. He reminds the Sanhedrin that God does not dwell in houses made by human hands, quoting the prophet Isaiah to emphasize that God is greater than any physical structure.

“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).

5. Rebuke and Martyrdom (Acts 7:51-60): Stephen concludes with a direct rebuke of the Sanhedrin, accusing them of resisting the Holy Spirit and betraying and murdering the Righteous One, Jesus Christ. His words provoke the council to anger, leading to his stoning.

“You stiff-necked people with uncircumcised hearts and ears! You always resist the Holy Spirit, just as your fathers did” (Acts 7:51).

Theological Significance

Stephen's defense is not merely a recounting of history but a theological argument demonstrating that God's presence and activity are not confined to the temple or the land of Israel. He challenges the Sanhedrin's understanding of God's work, showing that God's plan has always been broader and more inclusive than they realized. Stephen's speech also serves as a powerful witness to Jesus as the fulfillment of the law and the prophets, the ultimate revelation of God's redemptive plan.

Impact on the Early Church

Stephen's martyrdom marks a turning point for the early church, leading to increased persecution but also to the spread of the gospel beyond Jerusalem. His defense and subsequent death serve as a catalyst for the church's mission, illustrating the cost of discipleship and the power of the Holy Spirit in the life of believers. Stephen's vision of Jesus standing at the right hand of God (Acts 7:55-56) provides a powerful testimony to the early Christians of Christ's exalted position and His presence with His followers in times of trial.