Acts 7:1 – “Then the high priest asked Stephen, ‘Are these charges true?’”

Extended Explanation

This verse begins Stephen’s trial before the Jewish religious leaders, specifically the Sanhedrin. Stephen, a faithful servant of Jesus and one of the first deacons, had been accused of blasphemy against Moses, the law, and the temple (Acts 6:13-14). His teachings about Jesus had stirred up opposition from those who rejected Christ as the Messiah.

The high priest, likely Caiaphas—the same one who had presided over Jesus’ trial—asks Stephen if the accusations are true. This question sets the stage for Stephen’s powerful response, where he recounts Israel’s history and boldly confronts the leaders for their rejection of Jesus. Instead of simply defending himself, Stephen seizes the opportunity to declare the truth of God’s work throughout history and how it culminates in Christ.

Historical Context

Stephen was speaking to the Sanhedrin, the ruling Jewish council in Jerusalem, which had authority over religious matters. The council had already opposed Jesus and persecuted His followers (Acts 4:1-22, Acts 5:27-40). They were deeply committed to their traditions and saw Jesus as a threat to their authority.

Stephen’s trial follows the pattern of Jesus’ own trial (Matthew 26:57-68). Both faced false witnesses and were accused of blasphemy. This moment is significant because it marks a turning point in the early church—Stephen would soon become the first Christian martyr, and his death would lead to increased persecution but also to the spread of the gospel beyond Jerusalem (Acts 8:1-4).

Theological Implications

This verse introduces one of the most significant sermons in the book of Acts. Stephen’s speech is not just a defense but a proclamation of God’s faithfulness and the people’s repeated rejection of His messengers. It highlights:

• God’s Sovereignty: God had been working throughout history, guiding His people even when they rebelled.
• Jesus as the Fulfillment of God’s Plan: The religious leaders had missed the point of the law and the temple, which pointed to Jesus.
• The Cost of Following Christ: Stephen’s willingness to stand for the truth, even in the face of death, foreshadows the persecution Christians would endure.

Literary Analysis

Acts 7:1 is a pivotal moment in the narrative structure of Acts. It serves as the introduction to Stephen’s speech, a long discourse filled with Old Testament references. The question from the high priest acts as a transition, moving from accusation to proclamation.

Luke, the author of Acts, frequently uses courtroom scenes to highlight the conflict between the early Christians and Jewish authorities (Acts 4:1-22, Acts 5:27-40, Acts 22-26). This pattern emphasizes the opposition faced by believers and their unwavering commitment to Jesus.

Biblical Cross-References

• Matthew 26:59-63 – Jesus also stood before the high priest and faced false accusations.
• Acts 6:8-15 – The accusations against Stephen and the corrupt motives behind them.
• Acts 4:1-22 – Peter and John on trial for preaching Jesus.
• Acts 5:27-40 – The apostles before the Sanhedrin, showing how opposition to the gospel was growing.
• Matthew 23:29-36 – Jesus condemning the religious leaders for rejecting God’s messengers, a theme Stephen repeats.

What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian

Stephen’s trial reminds us that following Jesus means standing for the truth, even when it’s unpopular. Today, Christians still face opposition—sometimes from the world, sometimes from religious traditions that resist change. Like Stephen, we are called to boldly share the gospel, even when it costs us something.

This verse also challenges us to examine our hearts. Are we open to God’s truth, or do we, like the Sanhedrin, resist it because it doesn’t fit our expectations?

How This Verse Relates to a Loving God

God’s love is evident in Stephen’s story because He continually reaches out to His people, even when they reject Him. The Sanhedrin had the chance to hear the truth one more time through Stephen’s words. Even in judgment, God offers grace.

Stephen’s courage also shows God’s love working in him. He was filled with the Holy Spirit (Acts 6:10), which gave him the strength to speak boldly and the peace to endure suffering. God does not abandon His people when they face trials—He empowers them.

How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ

Stephen’s trial mirrors Jesus’ trial, showing how believers share in Christ’s suffering (Philippians 3:10). Jesus had warned that His followers would face persecution (John 15:18-20), and Stephen’s experience confirms this.

More importantly, Stephen’s speech will reveal that Jesus is the fulfillment of God’s promises throughout history. He is the greater Moses, the true temple, and the rejected cornerstone (Acts 7:37, Acts 7:48-49, Psalm 118:22). Stephen’s final words—asking God to forgive his killers (Acts 7:60)—echo Jesus’ words on the cross (Luke 23:34), showing how Christ’s love transforms His followers.

Questions for Reflection and Discussion

1. When have you faced opposition for standing up for your faith? How did you respond?
2. The Sanhedrin resisted the truth because it challenged their traditions. Are there any areas where you struggle to accept God’s truth?
3. How does Stephen’s courage inspire you in your walk with Jesus?
4. What can we learn from the way Stephen used Scripture to explain the gospel?
5. How does this passage challenge you to be more bold in sharing your faith?

Stephen’s story is one of courage, faith, and unwavering trust in Jesus. His trial reminds us that opposition is part of following Christ, but God’s presence is with us every step of the way.