Acts 7:56 – “Look,” he said, “I see heaven open and the Son of Man standing at the right hand of God.”

Extended Explanation

This verse records Stephen’s final words before his execution. As he is being condemned by the Sanhedrin, God gives him a vision of heaven. He sees heaven open and Jesus, whom he calls “the Son of Man,” standing at the right hand of God.

This vision is significant for several reasons:

1. “Heaven open” – This symbolizes direct access to God. While the religious leaders rejected Stephen, he was being welcomed into God’s presence.
2. “The Son of Man” – This is the only time in the New Testament (outside of Jesus’ own words) where someone refers to Jesus as “the Son of Man.” This title comes from Daniel 7:13-14, where the Son of Man is given power, authority, and an eternal kingdom. Stephen is declaring that Jesus is the exalted Lord, reigning in heaven.
3. “Standing at the right hand of God” – This phrase normally describes Jesus seated at God’s right hand (Psalm 110:1, Hebrews 1:3). But here, Jesus is standing—which many believe signifies that He is welcoming Stephen into heaven or standing as his advocate.

This vision was not just a comfort for Stephen—it was a final declaration that Jesus is Lord and King, reigning in power, even though the Jewish leaders had rejected Him.

Historical Context

1. The Sanhedrin’s Hatred Toward Jesus and His Followers – The same religious council that rejected and condemned Jesus was now rejecting His followers. Stephen’s speech had exposed their hypocrisy, and this vision confirmed that they had rejected the very Messiah God had exalted.
2. The Title “Son of Man” in Jewish Thought – The phrase “Son of Man” was not just a title—it was a clear reference to Daniel’s prophecy about the coming Messiah (Daniel 7:13-14). When Stephen used this title, he was claiming that Jesus is the divine, exalted ruler whom God had promised.
3. Stephen as the First Martyr – This moment was the final straw for the Sanhedrin. They could not tolerate Stephen’s declaration that Jesus was alive, glorified, and reigning in heaven. His execution marked the beginning of widespread persecution against Christians (Acts 8:1-3).
4. Jesus Had Predicted This Persecution – Before His crucifixion, Jesus warned His followers that they would be hated, arrested, and even killed for His name (John 15:18-20, Matthew 10:22). Stephen was now experiencing the fulfillment of that prophecy.

Theological Implications

1. Jesus is the Risen and Exalted King – Stephen’s vision confirms that Jesus is alive, reigning in power, and ruling as the Son of Man foretold in Daniel.
2. Believers Have Direct Access to Heaven – The fact that Stephen saw heaven open shows that those who trust in Christ are welcomed into God’s presence.
3. Jesus Cares for His People in Suffering – Jesus was not sitting, but standing, showing that He was actively involved in Stephen’s moment of trial.
4. True Faithfulness May Lead to Persecution – Stephen’s vision was glorious, but it did not prevent his suffering. His faithfulness cost him his life, but he was welcomed into eternal glory.

Literary Analysis

Luke, the author of Acts, sets up a dramatic contrast in this verse:

• Earthly judgment vs. Heavenly approval – The Sanhedrin condemned Stephen, but God vindicated him through this vision.
• Human rejection vs. Divine welcome – The Jewish leaders rejected Stephen, but Jesus stood to receive him.
• Temporary suffering vs. Eternal glory – Stephen was about to be stoned, but his eyes were fixed on heaven.

The phrase “I see heaven open” mirrors the moment at Jesus’ baptism when the heavens opened (Luke 3:21-22), symbolizing divine approval. This shows that Stephen’s faithfulness was recognized by God Himself.

Relevant Biblical Cross-References

• Daniel 7:13-14 – The Son of Man comes before God and is given power and an eternal kingdom.
• Psalm 110:1 – “Sit at my right hand until I make your enemies a footstool for your feet.”
• Matthew 26:64 – Jesus tells the Sanhedrin that they will see Him sitting at the right hand of power.
• Romans 8:34 – Jesus is at God’s right hand, interceding for believers.
• Hebrews 1:3 – Jesus sat down at the right hand of God after making purification for sins.
• John 14:2-3 – Jesus promises to prepare a place for His followers in heaven.

What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian

• Jesus is our advocate. Stephen saw Jesus standing at God’s right hand, showing that Jesus stands for His people, especially in times of suffering.
• Heaven is our true home. No matter what we go through on earth, God has prepared a place for His people.
• Persecution is part of following Christ. Stephen’s faithfulness led to his death, but his reward was eternal life in God’s presence.
• Fix your eyes on Jesus. Stephen was not focused on the angry mob—he was looking up to heaven. In times of trouble, we should also keep our eyes on Jesus (Hebrews 12:2).

How This Verse Relates to a Loving God

Even in Stephen’s suffering, God’s love is evident.

• God revealed His glory to Stephen in his final moments, giving him peace and confidence.
• Jesus was standing, welcoming Stephen home, showing that God does not abandon His faithful servants.
• God’s love gives courage to His people, even in persecution. Stephen was not afraid to die because He knew God was with him.

This verse reminds us that God’s love is greater than any suffering we may face on earth.

How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ

1. Jesus is the Fulfillment of Daniel’s Prophecy – The title “Son of Man” confirms that Jesus is the ruler and King described in Daniel 7:13-14.
2. Jesus Stands for His People – While Jesus is often described as sitting at God’s right hand, He stands here as an advocate, ready to receive Stephen.
3. Jesus Prepares a Place for His Followers – Stephen saw heaven open, reminding us of Jesus’ promise: “I go to prepare a place for you” (John 14:2-3).
4. Jesus Gives Strength to Face Persecution – Just as Jesus endured suffering, Stephen followed in His footsteps, empowered by the Holy Spirit.

Questions for Reflection and Discussion

1. How does Stephen’s vision of Jesus encourage us to remain faithful in times of difficulty?
2. What does it mean for Jesus to be “standing” at God’s right hand?
3. Why do you think Stephen referred to Jesus as the “Son of Man” in this moment?
4. How can we fix our eyes on heaven rather than earthly struggles?
5. How does knowing Jesus is in heaven, reigning in power, impact the way we live today?