The charges against Stephen, a prominent figure in the early Christian church, are detailed in the Book of Acts, specifically in chapters 6 and 7. Stephen, one of the seven deacons chosen to serve the Hellenistic Jewish Christians in Jerusalem, was known for his faith, wisdom, and the power of the Holy Spirit working through him. His ministry and miraculous works drew the attention of both followers and opponents.

Context and Background

Stephen's ministry took place in Jerusalem during a time of growing tension between the Jewish authorities and the burgeoning Christian movement. As the early church expanded, it faced opposition from various Jewish sects, particularly those who felt threatened by the new teachings about Jesus Christ as the Messiah.

The Synagogue of the Freedmen

The initial opposition to Stephen arose from members of the Synagogue of the Freedmen, which included Jews from Cyrene, Alexandria, Cilicia, and Asia. These individuals engaged Stephen in debate but were unable to withstand the wisdom and Spirit by which he spoke (Acts 6:9-10). Frustrated by their inability to refute him, they resorted to more drastic measures.

False Accusations

Unable to defeat Stephen through debate, his opponents resorted to deceit. They secretly persuaded men to accuse Stephen of blasphemy, claiming, "We have heard him speak words of blasphemy against Moses and against God" (Acts 6:11). This accusation was particularly serious, as blasphemy was a capital offense under Jewish law.

The Sanhedrin Trial

Stephen was brought before the Sanhedrin, the Jewish ruling council, where further false witnesses were presented. These witnesses testified, "This man never stops speaking against this holy place and against the law. For we have heard him say that this Jesus of Nazareth will destroy this place and change the customs Moses handed down to us" (Acts 6:13-14). The charges against Stephen were twofold: speaking against the temple and the law, both central pillars of Jewish religious life.

Stephen's Defense

In response to the charges, Stephen delivered a powerful speech before the Sanhedrin, as recorded in Acts 7. He recounted the history of Israel, emphasizing God's faithfulness and the repeated disobedience of the people. Stephen highlighted the rejection of God's messengers, culminating in the betrayal and murder of the Righteous One, Jesus Christ (Acts 7:52). His speech was not merely a defense but a prophetic indictment of the Jewish leaders' resistance to the Holy Spirit.

Reaction and Martyrdom

Stephen's words cut to the heart of the Sanhedrin, provoking a violent reaction. Enraged, they dragged him out of the city and stoned him to death. As he was being stoned, Stephen, full of the Holy Spirit, gazed into heaven and saw the glory of God and Jesus standing at the right hand of God. He prayed for his executioners, saying, "Lord, do not hold this sin against them" (Acts 7:60), echoing the forgiveness of Christ on the cross.

Significance

The charges against Stephen and his subsequent martyrdom marked a pivotal moment in the early church. His death intensified the persecution of Christians in Jerusalem, leading to the dispersion of believers and the spread of the Gospel beyond the confines of Judea. Stephen's unwavering faith and his vision of Christ at the right hand of God provided a powerful testimony to the early church and continue to inspire believers today.