Study Acts 7

• Stephen's lengthy defense sermon (Acts 7:1-50) recounts key figures and events from Israel's history, from Abraham to Moses and Solomon.

  • How does Stephen use this historical overview to subtly prepare for his indictment of the Sanhedrin?

  • What does Stephen emphasize about God's presence and work, particularly in relation to the Temple, that would challenge his accusers' understanding?

• Stephen culminates his sermon with a sharp indictment in Acts 7:51-53, accusing the Sanhedrin of being "stiff-necked" and always resisting The Holy Spirit's Role.

  • How does this accusation directly link their current opposition to Stephen with Israel's historical pattern of rejecting God's messengers and prophets, highlighting Christianity Accepted and Opposed?

  • What is the ultimate accusation Stephen levels against them, concerning Teaching About Jesus and the Gospel?

• Acts 7:54-56 describes the Sanhedrin's furious reaction and Stephen's heavenly vision of Jesus.

  • How does Stephen's vision of Jesus "standing at the right hand of God" serve as a divine affirmation of his message and a moment of Prophecy Fulfillment for Stephen himself?

  • What contrast does Stephen's peaceful, Spirit-filled countenance offer against the Sanhedrin's rage?

• Stephen's martyrdom (Acts 7:57-60) is a pivotal event for The Great Commission.

  • How does Stephen's death, and his Christ-like prayers for his persecutors, paradoxically serve as a catalyst for the geographical expansion of the Gospel beyond Jerusalem (as seen in Acts 8)?

  • Reflect on the significance of Saul's presence and consent to Stephen's death for Connecting Acts to the Rest of the NT.

• Consider the overarching significance of Stephen's message and martyrdom for the early church.

  • How does Stephen's bold and uncompromising witness, even unto death, set a powerful precedent for future The Great Commission efforts amidst Christianity Accepted and Opposed?