Chapter 36 — THE DEATH OF STEPHEN

Stephen was very active in working for the Lord. Stephen told people boldly about his faith. Many of the most educated teachers and doctors of the law began to talk with Stephen in front of the people. The teachers andSRme 1.1183

doctors expected an easy victory because they thought Stephen had no education. But Stephen spoke with the power of the Holy Spirit. The large crowd clearly realized that Stephen knew Bible prophecies and that he also knew all about the law. He was able to defend the truths he taught. He completely defeated the teachers and doctors.SRme 1.1184

The priests and rulers saw Stephen preaching with wonderful power. Their hearts were filled with hate. The priests and rulers did not want to accept the truths from Stephen. They wanted to stop Stephen's preaching and kill him. The priests and rulers grabbed Stephen and took him to the Sanhedrin council for trial.SRme 1.1185

The best educated Jews from nearby countries were called to the trial. They were to help prove what Stephen taught was wrong.SRme 1.1186

Saul was also at the trial. Everyone knew Saul was an enemy and a persecutor of anyone who believed in Jesus. Saul took a leading part against Stephen. In a powerful way, Saul explained the reasoning of the teachers to prove that Stephen was preaching dangerous ideas.SRme 1.1187

Saul realized Stephen was as well educated as he was. Stephen had a full understanding of the purposes of God in spreading the gospel to other nations. Stephen believed in the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. He fully understood the rights of the Jews. He had great faith. Stephen knew that the time had come when all people should worship God in Spirit and in truth wherever they were. He clearly understood what the death of Christ meant to everyone.SRme 1.1188

The priests and rulers could not win arguments against Stephen's clear and calm wisdom. But the priests and rulers spoke with force against Stephen. The priests determined to crush Stephen. The priests persecuted Stephen. They hoped to make people afraid to accept what Stephen taught. Strong charges were made against Stephen.SRme 1.1189

False witnesses were paid to lie. "'This man, [Stephen]' they said, 'is always talking against our sacred Temple and the Law of Moses. We heard him say that this Jesus of Nazareth will tear down the Temple and change all the customs which have come down to us from Moses!'" (Acts 6:13, 14).SRme 1.1190

Stephen stood face to face with his judges to answer the charge of making false statements. A holy light shone upon Stephen's face. "All those sitting in the Council fixed their eyes on Stephen and saw that his face looked like the face of an angel" (Acts 6:15). Many people who saw Stephen's lighted face trembled and covered their faces. But these people refused to admit that they were wrong.SRme 1.1191