The story of Stephen, the first Christian martyr, is one of the most powerful accounts in the Book of Acts. He was a man “full of faith and the Holy Spirit” (Acts 6:5) who boldly proclaimed the truth about Jesus Christ. However, his message was met with fierce opposition from legalistic Jews, particularly members of the Sanhedrin.
But did these religious leaders actually agree with Stephen at any point? Or did his words provoke them to anger from the start? This topic examines Stephen’s speech, the reaction of the legalistic Jews, and the deeper implications of his message.
Who Were the Legalistic Jews?
1. The Sanhedrin and Religious Leaders
The Sanhedrin was the ruling council of Jewish elders, priests, and scribes. It was dominated by two main religious groups:
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The Pharisees – Experts in the Law of Moses, they believed in strict obedience to traditions and legalism.
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The Sadducees – More politically motivated, they rejected concepts like the resurrection of the dead.
Together, they held great influence over Jewish society and saw Jesus and His followers as a threat.
2. Their Legalistic View of the Law
Legalistic Jews were those who believed righteousness came through strict adherence to the Law of Moses. They focused on external rituals rather than a relationship with God. Stephen’s message challenged this mindset, which is why it was met with such hostility.
Stephen’s Speech: What Did He Say?
Stephen’s sermon in Acts 7 is one of the longest recorded speeches in the New Testament. It was a defense against false accusations, but it also turned into a powerful rebuke of the religious leaders.
1. Retelling Jewish History
Stephen started by recounting Israel’s history, emphasizing key figures like:
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Abraham – The covenant with God (Acts 7:2-8).
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Joseph – Rejected by his brothers but later became their savior (Acts 7:9-16).
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Moses – The deliverer of Israel who was first rejected by his own people (Acts 7:17-43).
At this point, the legalistic Jews likely agreed with Stephen. He was simply stating historical facts about their ancestors. But as he continued, his speech took a more confrontational turn.
2. Exposing Israel’s Rejection of God’s Messengers
Stephen pointed out a pattern of rebellion throughout Israel’s history:
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Joseph’s brothers rejected him (Acts 7:9).
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The Israelites rejected Moses (Acts 7:39).
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They turned to idolatry despite God’s miracles (Acts 7:41-43).
This pattern culminated in the rejection of Jesus Christ, the Righteous One. At this point, the legalistic Jews could no longer agree with Stephen-they were now the ones being accused.
3. Accusing the Religious Leaders
The climax of Stephen’s speech came when he directly rebuked the Sanhedrin:
‘You stiff-necked people! Your hearts and ears are still uncircumcised. You are just like your ancestors: You always resist the Holy Spirit!’ (Acts 7:51)
He accused them of:
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Resisting the Holy Spirit (Acts 7:51).
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Persecuting God’s prophets (Acts 7:52).
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Betraying and murdering Jesus (Acts 7:52-53).
At this point, any agreement the legalistic Jews had with Stephen turned into rage.
How Did the Legalistic Jews React?
1. From Agreement to Anger
Initially, the Jewish leaders listened to Stephen, possibly nodding in approval as he spoke about their ancestors. However, when he turned his focus on their own sins and hypocrisy, their attitude changed dramatically.
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They became furious (Acts 7:54).
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They gnashed their teeth in rage.
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Instead of repenting, they hardened their hearts.
2. The Vision That Sealed His Fate
Stephen, filled with the Holy Spirit, saw a vision of Jesus standing at God’s right hand:
‘Look, I see heaven open and the Son of Man standing at the right hand of God!’ (Acts 7:56)
This was the final breaking point. The Jewish leaders considered this statement blasphemy, because Stephen was equating Jesus with God.
3. The Stoning of Stephen
Unable to tolerate his words any longer, they:
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Dragged him out of the city (Acts 7:58).
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Stoned him to death (Acts 7:59).
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Laid their coats at the feet of Saul (later known as Paul) (Acts 7:58).
Even in his final moments, Stephen echoed Jesus’ words by praying:
‘Lord, do not hold this sin against them.’ (Acts 7:60)
With that, he became the first Christian martyr.
Why Did They Reject Stephen’s Message?
1. They Were Spiritually Blind
Despite knowing Scripture, the legalistic Jews failed to recognize Jesus as the Messiah. Their religious pride prevented them from accepting the truth.
2. They Feared Losing Their Power
Accepting Stephen’s words meant admitting they were wrong about Jesus. This would have undermined their authority and influence over the people.
3. Their Hearts Were Hardened
Just as their ancestors rejected Moses, the prophets, and ultimately Jesus, they continued the pattern of resisting God’s truth.
What Can We Learn from Stephen’s Story?
1. Truth Will Always Face Opposition
Stephen spoke boldly, knowing that the truth would not be well received. As followers of Christ, we must also stand firm, even when faced with persecution.
2. Religious Rituals Do Not Equal Salvation
The legalistic Jews focused on laws and traditions but missed God’s grace. Salvation comes through faith in Jesus, not through religious performance (Ephesians 2:8-9).
3. Forgiveness Is Key
Even as he was being stoned, Stephen prayed for his enemies. This reflects Jesus’ own forgiveness on the cross (Luke 23:34). We, too, must learn to forgive those who oppose us.
4. God’s Plan Cannot Be Stopped
Stephen’s death did not stop the spread of the Gospel. Instead, it led to a greater movement of faith, with Saul (Paul) later becoming a powerful apostle (Acts 9:1-22).
At first, the legalistic Jews agreed with Stephen’s historical account. But when he confronted them with their own guilt and hypocrisy, they turned against him in rage. Their rejection of Stephen was ultimately a rejection of Jesus Christ.
Stephen’s story teaches us that truth is powerful, but it often faces opposition from those who resist change. As believers, we must remain faithful, bold, and forgiving, knowing that God’s plan always prevails.