Acts 7:57
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Acts 7:57
57 Then they cried out with a loud voice, and stopped their ears, and ran upon him with one accord,
Chapter Context
Acts 7 is a historical narrative chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of mercy, redemption, prayer. Written during the late first century CE (c. 80-85 CE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Chronicles Christianity's spread across the Roman Empire despite official and unofficial opposition.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-60: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it foreshadows Christ's work through typology and prophetic elements. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Acts and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Acts 7:57
57 Then they cried out with a loud voice, and stopped their ears, and ran upon him with one accord,
Analysis
They 'cried out with a loud voice, and stopped their ears' - refusing to hear what they considered blasphemy. 'Ran upon him with one accord' shows mob violence replacing judicial process. The Sanhedrin abandoned legal procedure in murderous rage.
Historical Context
Jewish law required careful deliberation in capital cases. The council's spontaneous violence violated their own standards, exposing their rejection as irrational rather than principled.
Reflection
- What does 'stopping their ears' reveal about willful spiritual blindness?
- How can religious leaders abandon their own principles when confronting threatening truth?
Cross-References
- Parallel theme: Acts 23:27, Psalms 58:4, Zechariah 7:11