Acts 7:55
Verse
Context
The Stoning of Stephen
54On hearing this, the members of the Sanhedrin were enraged, and they gnashed their teeth at him.55But Stephen, full of the Holy Spirit, looked intently into heaven and saw the glory of God and Jesus standing at the right hand of God.56“Look,” he said, “I see heaven open and the Son of Man standing at the right hand of God.”
Sermons






Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Saw the glory of God - The Shekinah, the splendor or manifestation of the Divine Majesty. And Jesus standing on the right hand of God - In his official character, as Mediator between God and man. Stephen had this revelation while in the Sanhedrin; for as yet he had not been forced out of the city. See Act 7:58.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
But he, being full of the Holy Ghost, looked up steadfastly into heaven, and saw the glory of God--You who can transfer to canvas such scenes as these, in which the rage of hell grins horribly from men, as they sit condemned by a frail prisoner of their own, and see heaven beaming from his countenance and opening full upon his view--I envy you, for I find no words to paint what, in the majesty of the divine text, is here so simply told. "But how could Stephen, in the council-chamber, see heaven at all? I suppose this question never occurred but to critics of narrow soul, one of whom [MEYER] conjectures that he saw it through the window! and another, of better mould, that the scene lay in one of the courts of the temple" [ALFORD]. As the sight was witnessed by Stephen alone, the opened heavens are to be viewed as revealed to his bright beaming spirit. and Jesus standing on the right hand of God--Why "standing," and not sitting, the posture in which the glorified Saviour is elsewhere represented? Clearly, to express the eager interest with which He watched from the skies the scene in that council chamber, and the full tide of His Spirit which He was at that moment engaged in pouring into the heart of His heroical witness, till it beamed in radiance from his very countenance.
John Gill Bible Commentary
Then they cried out with a loud voice,.... These were not the sanhedrim, but the common people; the Ethiopic version reads, "the Jews cried out"; which, they did, in a very clamorous way, either through rage and madness, or in a show of zeal against blasphemy; and cried out, either to God to avenge the blasphemy, or rather to the sanhedrim to pass a sentence on him, or, it may be, to excite one another to rise up at once, and kill him, as they did: and stopped their ears; with their fingers, pretending they could not bear the blasphemy that was uttered. This was their usual method; hence they say, (o). "if a man hears anything that is indecent, (or not fit to be heard,) let him put his fingers in his ears hence the whole ear is hard, and the tip of it soft, that when he hears anything that is not becoming, he may bend the tip of the ear within it.'' By either of these ways these men might stop their ears; either by putting in their fingers, or by turning the tip of the ear inward. And ran upon him with one accord; without any leave of the sanhedrim, or waiting for their determination, in the manner the zealots did; See Gill on Mat 10:4, Joh 16:2. (o) T. Bab. Cetubot, fol. 5. 1. 2.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
7:55-56 Jesus standing . . . at God’s right hand: Usually Jesus is described as seated in heaven at God’s right hand (2:33-34; 5:31; Luke 20:42; 22:69; Rom 8:34; Eph 1:20; Col 3:1; Heb 1:3, 13; 10:12). One possible explanation is that Jesus was welcoming Stephen, the first martyr, to heaven with honor. Stephen had confessed his Lord faithfully on earth, and now his Lord honored his promise to confess his faithful servant in heaven, standing as a witness to defend him (Matt 10:32; Luke 12:8). • the Son of Man standing: Cp. Dan 7:13-14. The Jewish leaders understood that Stephen was speaking of Jesus as the divine Son of Man (Acts 7:57), a title that speaks of Jesus’ power and authority (cp. Rev 1:12-15).
Acts 7:55
The Stoning of Stephen
54On hearing this, the members of the Sanhedrin were enraged, and they gnashed their teeth at him.55But Stephen, full of the Holy Spirit, looked intently into heaven and saw the glory of God and Jesus standing at the right hand of God.56“Look,” he said, “I see heaven open and the Son of Man standing at the right hand of God.”
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
The Gospel of the Grace of God
By Carter Conlon2.3K47:35Grace Of GodMAT 6:33ACT 7:55ACT 20:20ACT 20:24ACT 22:13HEB 4:12In this sermon, the speaker focuses on the transformative power of the Gospel of the Grace of God. He emphasizes that when someone truly encounters God, they are changed from the inside out. This change is evident in the way they begin to care for others and speak with kindness. The speaker encourages the audience not to be discouraged by the slow progress of change, but to trust that the seed of new life is growing within them. He concludes by leading the audience in a prayer of salvation, acknowledging Jesus as the Son of God and expressing gratitude for forgiveness and a future in heaven.
The Conversion of Saul
By James A. Stewart1.6K42:40Conversion Of SaulACT 7:55ACT 9:5In this sermon, the preacher discusses the conversion of Saul of Tarsus, also known as the Apostle Paul. He emphasizes the excitement and joy of witnessing someone's transformation from death to life through faith in Jesus Christ. The preacher highlights the moment when the light of the gospel shines into Saul's darkened soul, revealing Jesus to him. He also mentions the emotions experienced by a newborn believer, such as trembling under conviction of sin and astonishment at God's love. The preacher concludes by expressing concern about the confusion surrounding the gospel message in today's world and the need to continually emphasize the fundamental truths of salvation.
Unsearchable Riches of Christ - Part 6
By T. Austin-Sparks1.5K45:29Riches Of ChristACT 7:55ACT 16:23ACT 20:23ACT 28:31ROM 9:23EPH 1:18EPH 3:16In this sermon, the preacher discusses the story of Peter's imprisonment and miraculous escape as an example of how God's glory is revealed in times of tribulation and suffering. The preacher emphasizes that when human resources and efforts fail, God's glory shines through. He references the story of the wedding at Cana in Galilee, where Jesus performed his first miracle, as another example of God's glory being revealed in hopeless situations. The preacher encourages the audience to trust in God's grace and reminds them that even in apparent defeat, the end of the story will be glory.
K-470 Signs of the Times
By Art Katz1.4K1:03:37End TimesACT 7:55REV 12:17In this sermon, the speaker discusses the rapid and unexpected changes happening in the world, particularly in Eastern Europe. He emphasizes how our lives have become consumed with materialism and the constant need for more. The speaker also highlights the negative impact of this consumerist culture on the younger generation, who are becoming culturally illiterate and lacking critical thinking skills. He warns that this societal decline and the rise of anarchy will ultimately lead to a global imposition of a repressive system known as the beast system.
The Son of God With His Children in the Furnace
By Erlo Stegen1.1K32:18SufferingDAN 3:27MAT 10:33ACT 7:55In this sermon, the preacher focuses on the story of King Nebuchadnezzar and the three men who were thrown into the fiery furnace. He emphasizes the greatness and power of Nebuchadnezzar as a ruler. The preacher highlights the significance of hurting or criticizing a child of God, stating that it is like hurting God Himself. He also emphasizes the importance of having the Son of God, Jesus, with us in times of difficulty and suffering. The preacher encourages believers to stand firm in their faith and not to fear persecution, as the Son of God is always with them.
Christ in 01 in the Acts
By Jim Flanigan1.0K54:19ACT 2:22ACT 6:14ACT 7:2ACT 7:30ACT 7:55ROM 1:16HEB 1:1In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the glory of Jesus Christ by highlighting his title of humiliation. He explains that Jesus, who was despised and rejected by men during his time on earth, is now the exalted and risen Lord. The preacher mentions that Peter and John preached about Jesus of Nazareth, asking people what they would do with him, as their response would determine their destiny. The sermon also discusses three words used by Peter to show God's approval of Jesus: miracles, wonders, and signs. These words demonstrate the power and authority of Jesus and were also used to approve the early disciples.
The Two Most Important Questions Ever Asked
By Paris Reidhead95231:25QuestionsACT 7:55In this sermon, the preacher recounts the story of Stephen, a deacon who stood before a company of people and gave a powerful defense of his faith. Despite not having formal training, Stephen spoke with the wisdom and authority of the Holy Spirit, indicting Israel for their history of rejecting God. This enraged the listeners, and they stoned Stephen to death. However, this event was a turning point for Saul of Tarsus, who witnessed Stephen's unwavering faith and later had his own encounter with Jesus on the road to Damascus. This sermon emphasizes the importance of a personal revelation of Jesus Christ, beyond mere words or religious practices.
The Last Day of the Feast of the Tabernacles
By Frank Knox82047:25MAT 6:33JHN 4:14JHN 7:37JHN 7:39JHN 7:53JHN 11:35JHN 11:41ACT 7:55ACT 7:60In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the significance of Jesus Christ's actions during his time on earth. He highlights that Jesus rarely ran, but instead was often seen lying, walking, sitting, or standing. The preacher references Acts 7:54-60, where Stephen, filled with the Holy Spirit, sees Jesus standing at the right hand of God before being stoned to death. The sermon concludes with Stephen's final words, asking God not to hold the sin against his persecutors. The overall message is that Jesus' actions and sacrifice demonstrate God's grace and power.
Send the Fire!
By Ian Brown72532:07LUK 24:32ACT 4:13ACT 7:51ACT 7:55ROM 8:14GAL 5:181PE 1:13In this sermon, the speaker shares a story about a man who came to their house in a state of agitation and concern. The man sought counseling from an evangelist and, after being counseled about a sin, he threw his packet of cigarettes into the fire, symbolizing his desire to get rid of his sinful habits. The speaker then discusses the importance of applying the Word of God to our lives and how it can lead to a burning of the heart and a transformation. The sermon also mentions the significance of prayerfulness and reading the Bible on one's knees, as exemplified by the great evangelist George Whitefield.
Decisive Obedience
By Basilea Schlink66404:35Radio ShowACT 7:55In this sermon, Basilis Shlink discusses the story of Stephen from the seventh chapter of Acts, drawing parallels between Stephen and Jesus. Stephen, like Jesus, was falsely accused and brought before the high priest. Despite facing imminent death, Stephen remained full of the Holy Spirit and gazed into heaven, seeing the glory of God and Jesus standing at the right hand of God. Shlink emphasizes the importance of obedience to God's commandments, as it unites us with Him and strengthens us in times of trial. He acknowledges that obedience may bring suffering, as the powers of darkness oppose those who are obedient, but assures that heaven will open for those who remain obedient.
International Day of Prayer for the Persecuted - Part 1
By K.P. Yohannan45213:31ChristMAT 25:36ACT 7:55COL 3:2In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of responding to the suffering and persecution of fellow believers. He shares the tragic story of believers in Peshawar, Pakistan who were killed and injured in a bombing during a worship service. The speaker also mentions a missionary who visited a young person in the hospital after being poisoned by their own family for refusing to deny their faith. The message urges listeners to prioritize the things of Christ and to demonstrate love and support for persecuted believers through actions such as clothing the naked, visiting those in prison, and befriending the abandoned.
God Cares
By Anton Bosch1EXO 33:17PSA 142:4PRO 12:10ISA 43:1MAT 10:29JHN 15:13ACT 7:55ROM 8:38PHP 4:61PE 5:7Anton Bosch preaches about the feeling of being uncared for and unnoticed by people, but assures that God truly cares for each individual, knowing them by name and being concerned about every detail of their lives. He emphasizes that God not only knows about our problems but also feels our pain and has compassion on us, unlike people who may remain unaffected by our struggles. Bosch encourages casting all burdens upon God, who is waiting to help and share the load, offering comfort, mercy, and tenderness to those who are struggling.
Our Daily Homily - Acts
By F.B. Meyer0Empowerment by the Holy SpiritWitnessingACT 1:8ACT 2:33ACT 4:31ACT 5:4ACT 6:4ACT 7:55ACT 9:31ACT 10:6ACT 20:282CO 3:18F.B. Meyer emphasizes the call for believers to be witnesses of Christ, contrasting this role with the priestly functions of the time. He highlights that true witness-bearing stems from a close relationship with Jesus, which transforms us and enables us to reflect His light. Meyer encourages believers to start witnessing in their immediate circles before expanding outward, asserting that the Holy Spirit empowers this mission. He also discusses the importance of prayer and the continuous filling of the Holy Spirit for effective ministry. Ultimately, Meyer calls for a life of obedience to God's will, urging believers to recognize their role in the ongoing story of the Church.
Stephen Your Witness
By Tom Macartney0ACT 6:8ACT 7:55ACT 7:59ACT 8:1ACT 11:19COL 3:1HEB 12:1Tom Macartney preaches about the significance of Stephen in the Bible, highlighting his role as a key witness in Acts and a vital link in God's plan, impacting Paul's life and ministry. Stephen's vision of Christ in glory and as Head of His church reveals the true nature of Christianity as God's new creation, emphasizing the importance of understanding and embracing the heavenly vision. Through Stephen's witness, we learn about the situation in the church in the New Testament and the tragic confusion in church history, urging us to be the Lord's witnesses and evaluate the quality of our own witness.
What Have I to Do With Idols?
By Arno Clemens Gaebelein0ISA 33:17HOS 4:17HOS 7:8HOS 7:11HOS 8:11HOS 13:8HOS 14:8LUK 22:61JHN 11:35ACT 7:55COL 3:5Arno Clemens Gaebelein preaches on the story of Ephraim in the book of Hosea, highlighting how despite all reproof and chastisement, Ephraim remained joined to idols until he heard and observed the Lord, leading to his conversion and forsaking of idols. Gaebelein emphasizes the importance of being separated from idols and walking wholly with the Lord through heart occupation with Him, conscious communion through His Word, and beholding His glory and beauty. The preacher urges believers to have the Lord constantly before their eyes and hearts to avoid being drawn back to idols.
Service
By John Nelson Darby0Communion with GodServiceLEV 23:11NUM 8:2NUM 8:19ACT 7:55ROM 12:1ROM 15:161CO 6:20EPH 3:101PE 2:9REV 1:20John Nelson Darby emphasizes the significance of service within the Church, drawing parallels from the Levites' role in the Old Testament. He explains that true service stems from a deep communion with God, highlighting that the Levites were first offered to God before they could serve. The candlestick symbolizes the Church, which is called to shine forth the light of God's truth and wisdom to the world. Darby stresses that all service should be rooted in spiritual communion, as it empowers and directs our actions in accordance with God's will. Ultimately, he encourages believers to recognize their identity as God's servants, dedicated to His glory rather than their own ambitions.
Long and Short Sight
By D.L. Moody0Eternal PerspectiveThe Role of the Holy SpiritISA 61:1LUK 12:32JHN 14:16JHN 16:33ACT 7:55ROM 8:262CO 4:18PHP 3:20HEB 11:101JN 2:15D.L. Moody emphasizes the contrast between long-sightedness and short-sightedness in faith, using Abraham and Lot as examples. Abraham, with his eyes set on the eternal city built by God, exemplifies long-sightedness, while Lot represents those who are focused only on immediate worldly pleasures. Moody warns that many in the Church are caught between these two perspectives, leading to confusion and blurred vision. He highlights the importance of the Holy Spirit as the Comforter, who helps believers to let go of worldly attachments and focus on eternal truths. Ultimately, Moody calls for a powerful outpouring of the Spirit to cleanse and empower the Church to see clearly.
The Lord of Glory
By Arno Clemens Gaebelein0JHN 17:5ACT 7:55ROM 8:291CO 2:82TH 1:10HEB 2:91PE 1:21Arno Clemens Gaebelein preaches about the Lord of Glory, emphasizing how Jesus, who died for us, is the eternal Lord of Glory, manifested in various ways throughout history. From appearing to the prophets to performing mighty miracles, Jesus revealed His Glory on earth. Even in His death on the cross, the focus of His Glory, He displayed obedience and selflessness, ultimately being raised and received into Glory by God. Gaebelein highlights the future manifestation of the Lord of Glory, when every eye shall see Him in His Majesty and Glory, and believers will be glorified with Him.
The Heavens Opened Acts 7
By John Nelson Darby0SalvationGrace Of GodACT 7:55John Nelson Darby emphasizes the significance of Stephen's martyrdom in Acts 7 as a pivotal moment in the history of God's dealings with humanity. He highlights how Stephen's testimony encapsulates the rejection of God's grace and the necessity of salvation, illustrating that humanity is lost without Christ. The sermon reflects on the grace of God that brings salvation, the importance of recognizing our lost state, and the transformative power of seeing Christ in glory. Darby encourages believers to trust in God's love and grace, which reconciles us to Him, and to live in a way that reflects this relationship. Ultimately, he calls for a focus on Christ, who is our hope and salvation, as we await His return.
Jesus and Idols?
By Allan Halton0ISA 53:2HOS 14:8LUK 14:25JHN 11:35ACT 7:551CO 10:7EPH 5:5COL 3:5Allan Halton preaches about the prevalent issue of idolatry among modern-day Christians, emphasizing that idolatry goes beyond physical objects to include the worship of self and covetousness. He highlights the danger of wanting Christ alongside worldly pursuits, leading to a divided heart. Halton calls for Christians to walk a holy walk, not legalistic but filled with the love of Jesus, which draws idolaters to the true God. He references a powerful poem that underscores the need to turn away from idols and fix our gaze on the unmatched beauty of Jesus.
Full! Full! Full!
By Smith Wigglesworth0FaithHoly Spirit EmpowermentMRK 9:23ACT 6:5ACT 7:55Smith Wigglesworth emphasizes the power of belief in his sermon 'Full! Full! Full!', declaring that through faith, all things are possible. He highlights the victory of Jesus over sin and evil, encouraging believers to embrace their identity as children of Abraham through faith in Christ. Wigglesworth draws inspiration from Stephen, who was filled with faith and the Holy Spirit, performing miracles and standing firm in his faith even unto death. He urges the congregation to seek the fullness of the Holy Spirit, which empowers them to live extraordinary lives and perform great works for God. Ultimately, he reassures that God is always present, ready to heal and transform those who believe.
We Become What We Behold
By David Wilkerson0Reflection of ChristOvercoming TrialsACT 7:55David Wilkerson emphasizes that Stephen, filled with the Holy Spirit, exemplifies the true Christian by reflecting the glory of Christ amidst dire circumstances. Despite facing hostility and imminent death, Stephen's vision of Jesus in glory elevated him above his trials, demonstrating that a glimpse of the Lord's holiness can transform our perspective. By keeping our eyes fixed on Christ, we too can mirror His glory and provide peace to a troubled world. Wilkerson encourages believers to become living mirrors of Jesus, showcasing His glory to those around us, especially in challenging times.
Treasures of Darkness
By Raymond Golsworthy0JOB 35:10PSA 16:7PSA 27:4ISA 45:3MAT 4:16JHN 14:21ACT 7:55EPH 1:171PE 4:12Raymond Golsworthy preaches about finding treasures in darkness, emphasizing that dark times of trial and testing are opportunities to encounter God's treasures, such as new songs of praise, deeper understanding of spiritual truths, and fresh encounters with Jesus. He highlights how God gives songs in the night, spiritual revelations in darkness, and the presence of Christ in our darkest moments, leading to a richer and more intimate relationship with the Lord.
A Voice - a Mirror - and a Step of Faith
By David Wilkerson0FaithHumilityJHN 1:23JHN 3:30ACT 7:55David Wilkerson emphasizes three essential truths of true Christianity through the lives of John the Baptist, Stephen, and Peter. John exemplifies the humble service of being 'just a voice' for Christ, Stephen mirrors the glory of God through his steadfast faith, and Peter demonstrates the importance of taking bold steps of faith amidst trials. Each of these figures serves as a model for believers, encouraging them to focus on Christ, reflect His glory, and actively pursue Him in faith. Wilkerson calls for a return to humility and devotion, urging Christians to be voices of hope in a troubled world.
The Burning Fire of the Spirit - Part 3
By T. Austin-Sparks0Spiritual RenewalThe Greatness of ChristISA 6:1ACT 7:55HEB 1:3REV 1:1T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes the necessity of a fresh unveiling of the greatness of Jesus Christ to address the spiritual decline and suffering faced by believers. He illustrates how throughout biblical history, encounters with God's glory provided strength and sustenance to figures like Abraham, Moses, and Paul, enabling them to endure trials. Sparks argues that the key to overcoming adversity and renewing spiritual life lies in recognizing Christ's true greatness, which is often diminished by contemporary views. He calls for believers to seek a deeper understanding of Christ's glory, which will empower them to navigate their challenges and enhance their spiritual lives. Ultimately, he asserts that a greater revelation of Jesus leads to a more profound faith and a more vibrant Christian experience.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Saw the glory of God - The Shekinah, the splendor or manifestation of the Divine Majesty. And Jesus standing on the right hand of God - In his official character, as Mediator between God and man. Stephen had this revelation while in the Sanhedrin; for as yet he had not been forced out of the city. See Act 7:58.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
But he, being full of the Holy Ghost, looked up steadfastly into heaven, and saw the glory of God--You who can transfer to canvas such scenes as these, in which the rage of hell grins horribly from men, as they sit condemned by a frail prisoner of their own, and see heaven beaming from his countenance and opening full upon his view--I envy you, for I find no words to paint what, in the majesty of the divine text, is here so simply told. "But how could Stephen, in the council-chamber, see heaven at all? I suppose this question never occurred but to critics of narrow soul, one of whom [MEYER] conjectures that he saw it through the window! and another, of better mould, that the scene lay in one of the courts of the temple" [ALFORD]. As the sight was witnessed by Stephen alone, the opened heavens are to be viewed as revealed to his bright beaming spirit. and Jesus standing on the right hand of God--Why "standing," and not sitting, the posture in which the glorified Saviour is elsewhere represented? Clearly, to express the eager interest with which He watched from the skies the scene in that council chamber, and the full tide of His Spirit which He was at that moment engaged in pouring into the heart of His heroical witness, till it beamed in radiance from his very countenance.
John Gill Bible Commentary
Then they cried out with a loud voice,.... These were not the sanhedrim, but the common people; the Ethiopic version reads, "the Jews cried out"; which, they did, in a very clamorous way, either through rage and madness, or in a show of zeal against blasphemy; and cried out, either to God to avenge the blasphemy, or rather to the sanhedrim to pass a sentence on him, or, it may be, to excite one another to rise up at once, and kill him, as they did: and stopped their ears; with their fingers, pretending they could not bear the blasphemy that was uttered. This was their usual method; hence they say, (o). "if a man hears anything that is indecent, (or not fit to be heard,) let him put his fingers in his ears hence the whole ear is hard, and the tip of it soft, that when he hears anything that is not becoming, he may bend the tip of the ear within it.'' By either of these ways these men might stop their ears; either by putting in their fingers, or by turning the tip of the ear inward. And ran upon him with one accord; without any leave of the sanhedrim, or waiting for their determination, in the manner the zealots did; See Gill on Mat 10:4, Joh 16:2. (o) T. Bab. Cetubot, fol. 5. 1. 2.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
7:55-56 Jesus standing . . . at God’s right hand: Usually Jesus is described as seated in heaven at God’s right hand (2:33-34; 5:31; Luke 20:42; 22:69; Rom 8:34; Eph 1:20; Col 3:1; Heb 1:3, 13; 10:12). One possible explanation is that Jesus was welcoming Stephen, the first martyr, to heaven with honor. Stephen had confessed his Lord faithfully on earth, and now his Lord honored his promise to confess his faithful servant in heaven, standing as a witness to defend him (Matt 10:32; Luke 12:8). • the Son of Man standing: Cp. Dan 7:13-14. The Jewish leaders understood that Stephen was speaking of Jesus as the divine Son of Man (Acts 7:57), a title that speaks of Jesus’ power and authority (cp. Rev 1:12-15).