Stephen's speech, as recorded in Acts 7, is a pivotal moment in the New Testament, marking the first recorded martyrdom of a Christian. This speech is delivered before the Sanhedrin, the Jewish ruling council, in response to accusations of blasphemy against Moses, God, the temple, and the law (Acts 6:11-14). Stephen, one of the seven deacons chosen to serve the early church (Acts 6:5), stands as a powerful witness to the faith, articulating a profound understanding of Israel's history and God's redemptive plan.

Historical Context

Stephen's address is set against the backdrop of growing tension between the early Christian community and Jewish religious authorities. The apostles had been preaching the resurrection of Jesus, which challenged the established religious order. Stephen, described as "full of grace and power" (Acts 6:8), performed great wonders and signs among the people, which led to his arrest and trial.

Structure and Content of the Speech

Stephen's speech is a sweeping narrative of Israel's history, emphasizing God's faithfulness and the recurrent disobedience of the people. It can be divided into several key sections:

1. The Call of Abraham (Acts 7:2-8): Stephen begins with God's call to Abraham, highlighting the covenant and the promise of land, though Abraham himself never possessed it. "The God of glory appeared to our father Abraham while he was still in Mesopotamia" (Acts 7:2).

2. Joseph and the Patriarchs (Acts 7:9-16): He recounts the account of Joseph, sold into slavery by his brothers, yet used by God to save Israel during a famine. This narrative underscores God's providence and the theme of rejection by one's own people.

3. Moses and the Exodus (Acts 7:17-43): Stephen devotes a significant portion to Moses, emphasizing his role as deliverer and lawgiver. He notes the Israelites' initial rejection of Moses, paralleling their rejection of Jesus. "This Moses, whom they had rejected with the words, ‘Who made you ruler and judge?’ is the one whom God sent to be their ruler and redeemer" (Acts 7:35).

4. The Tabernacle and the Temple (Acts 7:44-50): Stephen discusses the tabernacle and Solomon's temple, stressing that "the Most High does not dwell in houses made by human hands" (Acts 7:48). This challenges the Sanhedrin's focus on the temple as the sole locus of God's presence.

5. Rebuke and Prophetic Fulfillment (Acts 7:51-53): Stephen concludes with a sharp rebuke of the council, accusing them of resisting the Holy Spirit and 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).

Theological Themes

Stephen's speech is rich with theological insights. It underscores God's sovereignty and faithfulness throughout Israel's history, despite human unfaithfulness. The speech highlights the continuity of God's redemptive plan, fulfilled in Jesus Christ, whom Stephen implicitly identifies as the ultimate prophet and deliverer. Stephen's emphasis on the temple as not being the exclusive dwelling place of God points to the new covenant reality where God's presence is with His people through the Holy Spirit.

Reaction and Martyrdom

The speech provokes a violent reaction from the Sanhedrin. "When they heard this, they were enraged, and they gnashed their teeth at him" (Acts 7:54). Stephen, filled with the Holy Spirit, gazes into heaven and sees the glory of God and Jesus standing at the right hand of God (Acts 7:55-56). His vision and declaration further infuriate the council, leading to his being dragged out of the city and stoned. As he is being martyred, Stephen prays for his executioners, echoing Jesus' words on the cross: "Lord, do not hold this sin against them" (Acts 7:60).

Stephen's speech and subsequent martyrdom serve as a powerful testimony to the early church's faith and the transformative power of the gospel. His witness marks a significant moment in the spread of Christianity, as persecution leads to the dispersion of believers and the further proclamation of the gospel.