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problems by killing them. They killed the prophets and they killed Jesus. Now they will repeat
the pattern by killing Stephen.

Act 7:53 Who have received the law by the disposition of angels, and have not kept it.

In addition to the law, many of the books of the major and minor prophets were given by
angels (Galatians 3:19). The purpose of the law was to teach of Jesus Christ. By rejecting,
persecuting, and killing Jesus, they have not kept the law.

THE SANHEDRIN’S REACTION (54-60)

The council is so convicted, they determine to stoned Stephen. Stephen is dragged outside the
city and stoned. While being stoned, he intercedes for all those responsible for his death.

CUT TO THE HEART

Verses 54 through 56 give the reaction of the Sanhedrin to Stephen’s message.

Act 7:54 When they heard these things, they were cut to the heart, and they gnashed on him
with their teeth.

The council now understands the meaning behind Stephen’s message, and become convicted in
their hearts.

DYING GRACE

Act 7:55 But he, being full of the Holy Ghost, looked up stedfastly into heaven, and saw the
glory of God, and Jesus standing on the right hand of God,

Stephen was under a strong anointing to preach; now he has a strong anointing to face death.
Stephen has been given dying grace and is able to see both the natural and spiritual world
simultaneously. The glory that took Jesus into heaven now surrounds Stephen.

Act 7:56 And said, Behold, I see the heavens opened, and the Son of man standing on the right
hand of God.

Stephen refers to the anointing for death as the “opening of heaven.” Jesus, who is usually
seated in heaven, stands up to greet one of His saints who is about to arrive in heaven.
Throughout the Word, saints are met with departed relatives, angels, and the Lord Jesus
Himself. We will also be greeted by the same regal welcome at the rapture of the church (1
Thessalonians 4: 16-17).