What happensPermalink
Stephen delivers an epic sermon. He recites the history of Israel before the Sanhedrin council, concluding with a condemnation of contemporary Jews for persecuting the prophets, rejecting the Messiah, and murdering Jesus. The people interrupt his speech and stone him while Saul holds their coats.
Why it mattersPermalink
Stephen’s history includes repeated examples of Israel’s rejection of men sent by God: Joseph, then Moses (repeatedly), and finally Jesus. He also points to God’s presence outside of Israel (in Egypt) and outside the temple (quoting Isaiah). Stephen’s dying prayers echo Jesus’s.
Key versePermalink
“Which of the prophets did your fathers not persecute? And they killed those who announced beforehand the coming of the Righteous One, whom you have now betrayed and murdered…”