Read Acts 7.51-8.1. In verse 51: Recitation now turns into a full indictment, addressed to you stiffed-necked people (see Ex 33.3, 5) and your ancestors. The sin is opposing the Holy Spirit (see Gamaliel's warning in 5.39). In verse 52: The traditional speech (Lk 6.23, 26; 11.47-52; 13.34) calling for repentance. It is dangerous if taken out of its prophetic context within Israel and used self-righteously by non-Jews (see Rom 11). In calling Jesus the righteous one, Luke draws upon the prophetic and wisdoms traditions (Wis 2.12-22) of the suffering righteous (see also Lk 23.47; Acts 3.14; 22.14) In verse 55: Rejecting Stephen is again opposing the "Holy Spirit" (v. 51) as he is filled with the Holy Spirit (6.3, 10,15). In verse 56: The heavens opened at Jesu' baptism to (Lk 3.21) and in Peter's vision (10.11). The Son of Man (Dan 7.13) is clearly Jesus, usually "sitting at the right of the power of God (Lk 2.69; Acts 2.33), But now standing, perhaps preparing to receive Stephen or to come "in his glory" (Lk 9.26). In verse 57-58: Stoning is the punishment for blasphemy, which is also why they covered their ears (see 7.51). This is the first appearance of Saul, who appears as a leader since they laid their coats at his feet. In verse 59-60: Stephen's giving up his spirit follows the pattern of Jesus' death in Lk 23.46, including the prayer for those who killed him (Lk 23.34.) In 8.1: Saul approved as a witness and was complicit in the murder (see Lk 11.48; Acts 22.10). Comments or Questions..
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