In those days
This phrase sets the historical context within the early church period, shortly after the ascension of Jesus Christ and the outpouring of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost. It was a time of rapid growth and expansion for the Christian community. The phrase suggests a specific period marked by significant developments and challenges as the early church sought to establish itself amidst a diverse cultural and religious landscape.

as the disciples were increasing in number
The early church was experiencing exponential growth, a testament to the power of the Holy Spirit and the compelling message of the Gospel. The Greek word for "disciples" (μαθηταί, mathētai) indicates learners or followers, emphasizing the commitment of these individuals to the teachings of Jesus. This growth, while a blessing, also brought logistical and administrative challenges, as seen in the subsequent verses.

the Hellenistic Jews among them
Hellenistic Jews were Jews who had adopted the Greek language and culture, often living in regions outside of Judea. They were distinct from the Hebraic Jews, who maintained traditional Jewish customs and spoke Aramaic or Hebrew. This cultural distinction within the early church highlights the diversity and potential for misunderstanding or conflict as different groups came together under the banner of Christ.

began to grumble against the Hebraic Jews
The Greek word for "grumble" (γογγυσμός, gongysmos) conveys a sense of murmuring or complaining, often in a low, secretive manner. This internal conflict within the church underscores the human tendency towards division and the need for unity and understanding. It serves as a reminder of the importance of addressing grievances openly and with a spirit of reconciliation.

because their widows were being overlooked
Widows in the ancient world were particularly vulnerable, often lacking the means to support themselves. The early church took seriously the call to care for the needy, as reflected in the daily distribution of food. The oversight of the Hellenistic widows suggests a systemic issue that needed to be addressed to ensure equitable treatment for all members of the community.

in the daily distribution of food
The "daily distribution" (διακονία, diakonia) refers to the service or ministry of providing for the physical needs of the community, particularly the poor and marginalized. This practice reflects the early church's commitment to living out the teachings of Jesus, who emphasized care for the least among us. It also highlights the practical challenges of managing resources and ensuring fairness in a growing and diverse congregation.

So the Twelve
This phrase refers to the twelve apostles, the foundational leaders of the early Christian church. The number twelve is significant, symbolizing the twelve tribes of Israel, and indicating the continuity of God's covenant people. The apostles were chosen by Jesus to be His closest followers and were entrusted with spreading His teachings. Historically, the Twelve held a unique authority in the early church, guiding its doctrine and practice.

summoned all the disciples
The act of summoning indicates a gathering of the broader group of believers, not just the apostles. The term "disciples" here refers to the followers of Jesus who were committed to learning from the apostles. This gathering underscores the communal nature of the early church, where decisions were made collectively. The Greek root for "disciples" is "mathētēs," meaning learners or students, highlighting the role of believers as continual learners of Christ's teachings.

and said
This phrase introduces the direct speech of the apostles, indicating their leadership role. The apostles' words carry weight and authority, as they are seen as the primary interpreters of Jesus' teachings. The act of speaking here is not just communication but a directive, guiding the early church in its mission and organization.

It is unacceptable
The word "unacceptable" conveys a strong sense of impropriety or inappropriateness. The Greek word used here is "arestos," which can mean pleasing or acceptable. The apostles are making a clear judgment about priorities, emphasizing that certain tasks, while important, should not detract from their primary mission.

for us to neglect
Neglect implies a failure to give proper attention or care. The apostles recognize the danger of being distracted from their primary responsibilities. The Greek root "kataleipō" means to leave behind or abandon, suggesting that the apostles are concerned about abandoning their God-given duties.

the word of God
This phrase refers to the teachings and message of Jesus Christ, which the apostles were commissioned to spread. The "word of God" is central to the mission of the church, and the apostles prioritize it above all else. Historically, the proclamation of the word was seen as the primary means of spreading the gospel and growing the church.

in order to wait on tables
The phrase "wait on tables" refers to the practical service of distributing food and resources to the needy within the community. The Greek word "diakonein" is used here, which means to serve or minister. This service is important, but the apostles recognize that their primary calling is to preach and teach. This distinction leads to the appointment of deacons, who would take on these practical responsibilities, allowing the apostles to focus on spiritual leadership. This decision reflects the early church's understanding of different roles and gifts within the body of Christ, ensuring that all needs are met without compromising the mission.

Therefore, brothers
The use of "therefore" indicates a conclusion or a decision based on previous discussions or events. In the context of Acts 6, the early church faced a challenge regarding the distribution of food to widows, which led to complaints. The term "brothers" (Greek: ἀδελφοί, adelphoi) is significant as it reflects the familial bond among believers, emphasizing unity and shared faith. This address underscores the communal nature of the early church, where decisions were made collectively and with mutual respect.

select from among you
The phrase "select from among you" implies a democratic process within the early church, where the congregation was involved in choosing leaders. This participatory approach highlights the importance of community discernment and accountability. The Greek word for "select" (ἐπισκέπτομαι, episkeptomai) suggests careful consideration and examination, indicating that the choice of leaders was not to be taken lightly but with prayerful deliberation.

seven men
The number "seven" is often associated with completeness or perfection in biblical literature. In this context, it may reflect a practical decision, possibly influenced by Jewish customs or the need for a manageable group size to effectively address the issue at hand. The choice of men (Greek: ἀνήρ, anēr) reflects the cultural norms of the time, where leadership roles were typically held by males, yet it also sets a precedent for structured leadership within the church.

confirmed to be full of the Spirit and wisdom
The qualifications for these men are twofold: they must be "full of the Spirit" and "wisdom." Being "full of the Spirit" (Greek: πλήρης πνεύματος, plērēs pneumatos) indicates a life led by the Holy Spirit, characterized by spiritual maturity and evidence of the Spirit's fruit. "Wisdom" (Greek: σοφία, sophia) refers to practical insight and the ability to apply knowledge effectively. This dual requirement ensures that leaders are both spiritually grounded and capable of making sound decisions, reflecting the early church's emphasis on spiritual and practical leadership.

We will turn this responsibility over to them
The apostles' decision to delegate this responsibility (Greek: χρεία, chreia) signifies a strategic distribution of duties within the church. By entrusting this task to others, the apostles could focus on prayer and the ministry of the word, highlighting the importance of recognizing and utilizing diverse gifts within the body of Christ. This delegation also illustrates the principle of shared leadership and the empowerment of others to serve, which is foundational to the church's growth and effectiveness.

But we
This phrase indicates a contrast with the previous verses where the apostles are addressing the issue of the distribution of food to widows. The "we" refers to the apostles, who are distinguishing their roles from those appointed to handle the practical needs of the community. The Greek word for "we" (ἡμεῖς, hēmeis) emphasizes the collective responsibility and unity among the apostles in their mission.

will devote ourselves
The Greek word used here is "προσκαρτερήσομεν" (proskarterēsomen), which means to persist or to be steadfastly attentive to something. This implies a continuous, unwavering commitment. The apostles are expressing their dedication to their primary calling, which is spiritual rather than administrative. This devotion is not a casual or occasional activity but a focused and persistent effort.

to prayer
Prayer (προσευχῇ, proseuchē) is a fundamental aspect of the apostles' ministry. It signifies communication with God, seeking His guidance, strength, and wisdom. In the early church, prayer was central to the life of believers, reflecting their dependence on God for the success of their mission. The apostles' commitment to prayer underscores the importance of spiritual disciplines in leadership and ministry.

and to the ministry
The word "ministry" (διακονία, diakonia) in Greek refers to service or attendance to the needs of others. Here, it specifically relates to the spiritual service of teaching and preaching the Word of God. The apostles are setting a precedent for prioritizing spiritual nourishment and guidance for the community, which is essential for the growth and health of the church.

of the word
The "word" (λόγου, logou) refers to the message of the Gospel, the teachings of Jesus Christ, and the Scriptures. The apostles are tasked with the responsibility of spreading the Gospel and ensuring that the teachings of Christ are accurately communicated and preserved. This highlights the centrality of Scripture in the life of the church and the role of leaders in faithfully teaching and upholding biblical truth.

This proposal pleased the whole group
The phrase "this proposal" refers to the suggestion made by the apostles to appoint seven men to oversee the distribution of food, ensuring fairness and addressing the complaints of the Hellenistic Jews. The Greek word for "pleased" (ἀρεστός, arestos) indicates a sense of satisfaction and approval, suggesting that the early church was unified in their decision-making process. This unity is significant in the context of the early church, as it highlights the communal and cooperative spirit that was essential for the growth and stability of the Christian community.

They chose Stephen
"Stephen" is derived from the Greek name Στέφανος (Stephanos), meaning "crown" or "garland." Stephen is introduced as a prominent figure, and his selection is significant because he is described as a man "full of faith and of the Holy Spirit." This sets the stage for his later role as the first Christian martyr, emphasizing the importance of spiritual qualifications in leadership within the church.

a man full of faith and of the Holy Spirit
The description "full of faith and of the Holy Spirit" underscores the spiritual maturity and divine empowerment of Stephen. The Greek word for "full" (πλήρης, pleres) conveys the idea of being completely filled or abounding. This highlights the essential qualities of faith and the indwelling presence of the Holy Spirit as prerequisites for effective ministry and service in the early church. It serves as a reminder of the transformative power of faith and the Holy Spirit in the life of a believer.

also Philip
"Philip" comes from the Greek name Φίλιππος (Philippos), meaning "lover of horses." Philip is another key figure in the early church, later known for his evangelistic work, particularly in Samaria and with the Ethiopian eunuch (Acts 8). His inclusion in this list indicates his role as a trusted leader and servant in the community.

Prochorus
The name "Prochorus" is of Greek origin, meaning "leader of the dance" or "chorus leader." While not much is known about Prochorus from the biblical text, his selection as one of the seven indicates his standing and trustworthiness within the early church. Tradition holds that he later became a bishop and possibly a martyr, reflecting the dedication and sacrifice of early Christian leaders.

Nicanor
"Nicanor" is a Greek name meaning "victorious." Although specific details about Nicanor's life and ministry are not provided in the biblical text, his inclusion among the seven suggests that he was a respected and capable leader. The name itself may symbolize the victory of the early church in overcoming challenges and spreading the gospel.

Timon
The name "Timon" is of Greek origin, meaning "honorable" or "worthy." Like Nicanor, little is known about Timon's life from the biblical account. However, his selection as one of the seven indicates his honorable character and the trust placed in him by the early Christian community.

Parmenas
"Parmenas" is a Greek name that may mean "abiding" or "steadfast." This name suggests qualities of perseverance and faithfulness, which would have been essential for those serving in leadership roles within the early church. Parmenas' inclusion in this list highlights the importance of steadfastness in the face of challenges.

and Nicolas from Antioch, a convert to Judaism
"Nicolas" is a Greek name meaning "victory of the people." His designation as "from Antioch" and "a convert to Judaism" (a proselyte) indicates his background and the diverse nature of the early church. Antioch was a major city and a center of early Christian activity, known for its cultural and ethnic diversity. Nicolas' conversion to Judaism before embracing Christianity reflects the inclusive nature of the gospel message, transcending cultural and religious boundaries. His selection underscores the early church's commitment to unity and diversity within its leadership.

They presented these seven
This phrase indicates a formal introduction or presentation of the seven chosen men to the apostles. The Greek word used here is "παρίστημι" (paristēmi), which means to stand beside or present. This act of presentation signifies a communal acknowledgment and approval of these men for a specific task. Historically, this reflects the early church's practice of communal decision-making and the importance of public recognition in leadership roles. The number seven is significant, often symbolizing completeness or perfection in biblical terms, suggesting that these men were fully equipped for their ministry.

to the apostles
The apostles were the original disciples of Jesus Christ, entrusted with spreading His teachings and establishing the early church. The Greek term "ἀπόστολος" (apostolos) means "one who is sent out," emphasizing their role as messengers and leaders. In the context of Acts, the apostles held authority and were responsible for maintaining doctrinal purity and organizational structure within the church. This presentation to the apostles underscores the importance of apostolic approval and oversight in church matters.

who prayed
Prayer is a fundamental practice in the Christian faith, serving as a means of communication with God. The Greek word "προσεύχομαι" (proseuchomai) is used here, indicating a form of prayer that is earnest and directed towards God. The apostles' act of praying before laying hands on the seven men highlights the necessity of seeking divine guidance and blessing in ministry. It reflects a dependence on God for wisdom and empowerment, setting a precedent for spiritual leadership that is rooted in prayer.

and laid their hands on them
The laying on of hands is a symbolic act with deep roots in Jewish tradition, often associated with the transfer of authority, blessing, or the Holy Spirit. The Greek phrase "ἐπιτίθημι χεῖρας" (epitithēmi cheiras) conveys the idea of placing hands upon someone as a sign of commissioning or consecration. In the context of Acts, this act signifies the apostles' endorsement and the conferring of authority and responsibility to the seven men. It also symbolizes the impartation of spiritual gifts and the Holy Spirit's empowerment for the task ahead. This practice continues in various Christian traditions as a means of ordination and blessing.

So the word of God continued to spread
The phrase "the word of God" refers to the message of the Gospel, the good news of Jesus Christ's death and resurrection for the salvation of mankind. In Greek, "word" is "logos," which signifies not just spoken words but the divine reason and creative order. The spreading of the "word of God" indicates the active and living nature of the Gospel, which is not static but dynamic, moving through the hearts and minds of people. Historically, this period in the early church was marked by a fervent evangelistic zeal, as the apostles and early Christians were empowered by the Holy Spirit to preach boldly. The phrase underscores the unstoppable nature of God's message, which transcends cultural and geographical barriers.

The number of disciples in Jerusalem increased rapidly
The term "disciples" in Greek is "mathētēs," meaning learners or followers. This indicates that those who were coming to faith were not merely converts but committed followers of Christ, dedicated to learning His teachings and living them out. The rapid increase in their number highlights the powerful work of the Holy Spirit in drawing people to Christ and the effectiveness of the apostles' ministry. Jerusalem, being the epicenter of Jewish religious life, was a significant location for this growth, as it fulfilled Jesus' command in Acts 1:8 to be His witnesses starting in Jerusalem. This growth also signifies the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies about the gathering of God's people.

and a great number of priests became obedient to the faith
The mention of "priests" is particularly significant, as these were individuals deeply entrenched in the Jewish religious system. Their conversion to Christianity indicates a profound shift, as they recognized Jesus as the fulfillment of the Law and the Prophets. The Greek word for "obedient" is "hypakouō," which means to listen attentively and to submit. This obedience to "the faith" suggests a complete transformation and acceptance of the Gospel message. Historically, this would have been a radical and courageous step, as it meant leaving behind established religious roles and facing potential persecution. Their conversion is a testament to the compelling truth of the Gospel and the work of the Holy Spirit in breaking down even the most resistant barriers.

Now Stephen
The introduction of Stephen here is significant. Stephen is one of the seven deacons chosen earlier in Acts 6 to serve the early church. His name, "Stephen," comes from the Greek "Stephanos," meaning "crown" or "wreath," often associated with victory. This sets the stage for his role as a victorious witness for Christ, even unto martyrdom.

full of grace and power
The phrase "full of grace and power" indicates that Stephen was abundantly endowed with divine favor and strength. "Grace" (Greek: "charis") refers to the unmerited favor of God, which empowers believers to live out their faith. "Power" (Greek: "dynamis") suggests the miraculous ability given by the Holy Spirit. This combination highlights Stephen's spiritual maturity and the divine enablement for his ministry.

was performing
The verb "was performing" (Greek: "epoiei") is in the imperfect tense, indicating continuous or repeated action. This suggests that Stephen's ministry was not a one-time event but an ongoing demonstration of God's power through him. It reflects a life consistently yielded to the Holy Spirit's leading.

great wonders and signs
The terms "wonders" (Greek: "teras") and "signs" (Greek: "semeion") are often used together in the New Testament to describe miraculous acts that point to a divine truth. "Wonders" emphasize the awe-inspiring nature of the acts, while "signs" highlight their purpose as indicators of God's presence and power. These miracles authenticated Stephen's message and ministry, drawing attention to the gospel.

among the people
The phrase "among the people" indicates that Stephen's ministry was public and accessible. It was not confined to a select group but was a witness to the broader community. This reflects the early church's mission to reach all people with the message of Christ, breaking down barriers and extending the reach of the gospel.

But resistance arose
The phrase "resistance arose" indicates a significant opposition that emerged against Stephen. The Greek word for "resistance" here is "ἀντίστασις" (antistasis), which implies a standing against or opposition. This resistance is not merely passive but active and confrontational. Historically, this reflects the growing tension between the early Christian movement and certain Jewish groups who felt threatened by the new teachings that challenged traditional beliefs and practices.

from what was called the Synagogue of the Freedmen
The "Synagogue of the Freedmen" refers to a specific group within the Jewish community. The term "Freedmen" (Greek: "Λιβερτίνων," Libertinon) suggests that these were Jews who had been slaves but were now free. This synagogue likely consisted of Hellenistic Jews, those who had adopted Greek language and culture. The existence of such a synagogue highlights the diversity within Judaism at the time, with various groups having their own places of worship and community.

(including Cyrenians, Alexandrians, and people from Cilicia and Asia)
This phrase lists the geographical origins of the members of the Synagogue of the Freedmen. "Cyrenians" were from Cyrene, a city in North Africa, which had a significant Jewish population. "Alexandrians" were from Alexandria in Egypt, another major center of Hellenistic Judaism. "Cilicia" and "Asia" refer to regions in modern-day Turkey. The mention of these places underscores the widespread dispersion of Jews throughout the Roman Empire and the diverse backgrounds of those who opposed Stephen. It also suggests that the message of Christianity was reaching a broad audience, which was both a strength and a source of conflict.

They began to argue with Stephen
The act of arguing with Stephen indicates a formal debate or dispute. The Greek word used here is "συζητεῖν" (syzetein), which means to discuss or dispute. This was a common practice in Jewish synagogues, where theological and scriptural debates were encouraged. Stephen, full of wisdom and the Holy Spirit, was a formidable opponent in such debates. This confrontation highlights the early church's commitment to engaging with differing beliefs and the challenges they faced in spreading the Gospel. Stephen's role as a deacon and his ability to articulate the Christian faith in the face of opposition serve as an inspiration for believers to stand firm in their convictions and to be prepared to defend their faith with grace and truth.

but they could not stand up
The phrase "could not stand up" indicates an inability to resist or oppose effectively. In the Greek, the word used here is "anthistēmi," which means to set against or withstand. This suggests a confrontation where the opponents of Stephen were unable to counter his arguments or presence. Historically, this reflects the early church's experience, where the wisdom and power of the Holy Spirit often left opponents speechless or defeated, as seen in the accounts of the apostles' boldness in Acts.

to his wisdom
The term "wisdom" in Greek is "sophia," which refers to a deep, spiritual insight and understanding. Stephen's wisdom was not merely intellectual but divinely inspired, reflecting the wisdom that comes from God. This echoes the Old Testament tradition where wisdom is a gift from God, as seen in Solomon's request for wisdom in 1 Kings 3:9. Stephen's wisdom was a testament to his deep relationship with God and his understanding of the Scriptures.

or the Spirit
The "Spirit" here refers to the Holy Spirit, the third person of the Trinity, who empowers believers. The Greek word "pneuma" is used, which can mean breath or spirit, indicating the life-giving and dynamic presence of God. The Holy Spirit's role in Acts is pivotal, as He empowers the apostles and early Christians to preach boldly and perform miracles. This highlights the fulfillment of Jesus' promise in Acts 1:8 that the disciples would receive power when the Holy Spirit came upon them.

by whom he spoke
The phrase "by whom he spoke" emphasizes that Stephen's words were not his own but were inspired by the Holy Spirit. The Greek construction indicates agency, showing that the Holy Spirit was the source of Stephen's powerful speech. This aligns with Jesus' promise in Luke 12:12 that the Holy Spirit would teach His followers what to say in times of persecution. Stephen's speech, therefore, was a direct manifestation of the Spirit's work, demonstrating the divine authority and truth of his message.

Then they prompted
The phrase "then they prompted" indicates a deliberate and premeditated action by certain individuals. The Greek word used here is "hypoballō," which means to instigate or suborn. This suggests a covert and deceitful plan to incite false testimony. Historically, this reflects the tension between the early Christian community and the Jewish authorities, who felt threatened by the growing influence of the apostles.

some men
The use of "some men" implies that these individuals were likely chosen for their willingness to participate in deceit. This aligns with the historical context of the time, where false witnesses were sometimes used to achieve a desired outcome in legal or religious disputes. The anonymity of these men underscores the underhanded nature of the plot against Stephen.

to say
The phrase "to say" indicates the act of speaking or declaring something, in this case, false accusations. The Greek word "legō" is used, which can mean to speak or to tell. This highlights the power of words and the potential for them to be used for manipulation and deceit, a theme that resonates throughout scripture.

'We heard him speak
This phrase suggests a claim of firsthand experience or witness. The Greek word "akouō" means to hear or listen, implying that the accusers were presenting themselves as credible witnesses. This tactic was often used in ancient legal settings to lend weight to accusations, even when the testimony was fabricated.

blasphemous words
The term "blasphemous" is derived from the Greek "blasphēmos," meaning to speak evil or slander. In a Jewish context, blasphemy was a serious charge, often punishable by death. This accusation against Stephen was intended to provoke outrage and justify severe punishment, reflecting the high stakes of religious discourse at the time.

against Moses and God
The mention of "Moses and God" is significant, as Moses was revered as the lawgiver and a central figure in Jewish tradition. Accusing Stephen of speaking against Moses was akin to challenging the very foundation of Jewish identity and faith. The inclusion of God in the accusation further heightened the perceived severity of Stephen's alleged offense, as it suggested a direct affront to divine authority.

So they stirred up the people
The phrase "So they stirred up the people" indicates a deliberate action taken by the opponents of Stephen. The Greek word used here is "συνεκίνησαν" (synekínēsan), which means to incite or agitate. This suggests a calculated effort to provoke a reaction from the crowd. Historically, this reflects the tension between the early Christian community and the Jewish authorities. The act of stirring up the people was a common tactic used to sway public opinion and create a mob mentality, often leading to unjust actions against individuals or groups. This highlights the challenges faced by the early church in spreading the Gospel amidst opposition.

and elders and scribes
The inclusion of "elders and scribes" signifies the involvement of Jewish leadership in the opposition against Stephen. The "elders" were respected leaders within the Jewish community, often part of the Sanhedrin, the ruling council. The "scribes" were experts in the Law, responsible for teaching and interpreting the Scriptures. Their participation indicates that the accusations against Stephen were not just a grassroots movement but had the backing of established religious authorities. This reflects the broader conflict between the nascent Christian movement and the established Jewish religious order, as the teachings of Jesus challenged traditional interpretations and practices.

They seized him
The phrase "They seized him" conveys a sense of urgency and force. The Greek word "συνέλαβον" (synélabon) implies a physical apprehension, suggesting that Stephen was taken against his will. This action marks a turning point in the narrative, as it transitions from verbal disputes to physical confrontation. It underscores the severity of the situation and the lengths to which the opponents of the Gospel were willing to go to silence its messengers. This moment foreshadows the trials and persecutions that many early Christians would face for their faith.

and led him away to the Sanhedrin
The act of leading Stephen "to the Sanhedrin" places the event within the judicial context of the time. The Sanhedrin was the highest Jewish court, responsible for religious and some civil matters. Bringing Stephen before this body indicates that the charges against him were serious, likely involving accusations of blasphemy or heresy. This setting also reflects the legal challenges faced by the early church, as they navigated a complex landscape of religious and civil authority. The Sanhedrin's involvement highlights the perceived threat that the Christian message posed to the established religious order and the lengths to which the authorities would go to maintain control.

They presented false witnesses
The act of presenting "false witnesses" is a direct violation of the Ninth Commandment, which prohibits bearing false witness against one's neighbor (Exodus 20:16). In the Greek, the word for "false" is "pseudomartys," which combines "pseudo" (false) and "martys" (witness). This term underscores the deliberate deceit involved. Historically, false testimony was a serious offense in Jewish law, as seen in the trial of Naboth (1 Kings 21). The use of false witnesses here highlights the malicious intent of Stephen's accusers, who were willing to break God's law to achieve their ends.

who said
The phrase "who said" introduces the specific accusations made against Stephen. In the context of a legal proceeding, the words of witnesses were crucial. The Greek verb "eipon" (said) is in the aorist tense, indicating a completed action, suggesting that these accusations were formally presented as part of the legal process. This reflects the gravity of the situation, as Stephen was being formally charged based on these statements.

This man
Referring to Stephen as "this man" is a way to depersonalize and diminish him, a common tactic in legal and rhetorical settings to sway opinion against the accused. In the Greek, "houtos" (this) can carry a dismissive tone, indicating the accusers' disdain. Stephen, a man "full of faith and the Holy Spirit" (Acts 6:5), is reduced to a mere object of scorn, illustrating the deep-seated animosity of his accusers.

never stops speaking
The phrase "never stops speaking" suggests a continuous action, implying that Stephen was persistently vocal about his beliefs. The Greek word "pauomai" (stops) in the negative form emphasizes the ongoing nature of his speech. This accusation reflects the early Christian commitment to proclaiming the Gospel, regardless of opposition. Stephen's unwavering testimony is reminiscent of the apostles' boldness in Acts 4:20, where they declare, "For we cannot stop speaking about what we have seen and heard."

against this holy place
"Against this holy place" refers to the temple in Jerusalem, a central symbol of Jewish identity and worship. The Greek term "topos" (place) is often used to denote sacred spaces. Accusations against the temple were serious, as it was considered the dwelling place of God's presence. Stephen's teachings, which likely included the new covenant's implications for temple worship, were perceived as a threat to traditional Jewish beliefs. This echoes Jesus' own statements about the temple, which were similarly misunderstood (John 2:19-21).

and against the law
The accusation of speaking "against the law" is a charge of blasphemy, as the Mosaic Law was foundational to Jewish life and religion. The Greek word "nomos" (law) encompasses not only the written Torah but also the oral traditions. Stephen's message, which emphasized Jesus as the fulfillment of the law, was seen as a radical departure from established norms. This reflects the tension between the emerging Christian faith and traditional Judaism, a theme that recurs throughout the book of Acts.

For we heard him say
This phrase indicates the testimony of the false witnesses against Stephen. The Greek word for "heard" is "ἀκούω" (akouo), which implies not just hearing but understanding or perceiving. In the context of Acts, this reflects the tension between the early Christians and the Jewish authorities. The witnesses claim to have understood Stephen's message, yet their interpretation is skewed, highlighting the frequent misinterpretation of Jesus' teachings by those who opposed Him.

that this Jesus of Nazareth
The reference to "Jesus of Nazareth" is significant. "Nazareth" was a small, seemingly insignificant town, yet it became central to Jesus' identity. The use of "this" in Greek, "οὗτος" (houtos), can imply a dismissive tone, reflecting the contempt of the accusers. Historically, Jesus' association with Nazareth fulfilled Old Testament prophecies and challenged societal expectations, emphasizing God's use of the humble and lowly to accomplish His purposes.

will destroy this place
The phrase "destroy this place" refers to the temple in Jerusalem, a central symbol of Jewish faith and identity. The Greek word for "destroy" is "καταλύω" (katalyo), meaning to dissolve or dismantle. This accusation echoes Jesus' own words about the destruction of the temple (John 2:19), which He used metaphorically to speak of His death and resurrection. Theologically, it points to the transition from the old covenant, centered on the temple, to the new covenant, centered on Christ.

and change the customs
The word "change" in Greek is "ἀλλάσσω" (allasso), meaning to transform or exchange. This reflects the fear among Jewish leaders that the new Christian movement threatened their traditional practices. Historically, the early church did indeed bring about significant changes, emphasizing faith in Christ over adherence to the law. This transformation was not a rejection of the law but its fulfillment in Jesus.

Moses handed down to us
"Moses" is a central figure in Jewish history, representing the law and covenant. The Greek word for "handed down" is "παραδίδωμι" (paradidomi), meaning to deliver or entrust. This phrase underscores the deep reverence for Mosaic law among the Jews. Stephen's message, however, was not about abolishing the law but about its fulfillment in Christ. Theologically, this highlights the continuity and fulfillment of God's plan from the Old Testament to the New Testament, with Jesus as the ultimate revelation of God's will.

All who were sitting in the Sanhedrin
The Sanhedrin was the supreme religious council in ancient Israel, composed of elders, scribes, and priests. This assembly held significant authority over Jewish religious and civil matters. The phrase indicates a collective focus and attention from this powerful body. Historically, the Sanhedrin was known for its rigorous adherence to the law and its role in maintaining Jewish traditions. The Greek term for "Sanhedrin" (συνέδριον) suggests a formal assembly or council, emphasizing the gravity of the situation Stephen faced.

looked intently at him
The Greek word used here, ἀτενίζω (atenizó), means to gaze or look steadfastly. This implies more than a casual glance; it suggests a deep, penetrating scrutiny. The members of the Sanhedrin were not merely observing Stephen; they were examining him closely, likely with suspicion and judgment. This intense focus underscores the tension and the high stakes of the moment, as Stephen stood before them accused of blasphemy.

and they saw that his face
The act of seeing here is significant. The Greek word εἶδον (eidon) implies perception and understanding, not just physical sight. The Sanhedrin's perception of Stephen's face is crucial, as it sets the stage for the divine revelation that follows. In biblical narratives, the face often symbolizes one's presence and character, suggesting that what they saw was a reflection of Stephen's inner spiritual state.

was like the face of an angel
This phrase is rich with theological and symbolic meaning. Angels in the Bible are often messengers of God, embodying purity, holiness, and divine presence. The comparison of Stephen's face to that of an angel suggests a supernatural radiance and peace, even in the face of persecution. The Greek word for "angel" (ἄγγελος, angelos) means messenger, indicating that Stephen, filled with the Holy Spirit, was a vessel of God's message. This divine countenance would have been a powerful testimony to the Sanhedrin, reminiscent of Moses' radiant face after encountering God (Exodus 34:29-35). It signifies God's approval and presence with Stephen, even as he stood on trial. This moment foreshadows Stephen's role as the first Christian martyr, filled with grace and truth, reflecting the glory of God amidst adversity.