Summary
Stephen, standing before the Sanhedrin, recounts Israel’s history starting with Abraham’s call, through the generations of patriarchs, Joseph’s rise in Egypt, and the oppression that led to Moses’ leadership. He details the covenant of circumcision, the idol of the golden calf, and the repeated disobedience of the Israelites. Stephen highlights Moses’ miracles, the failed worship of the calf, and the eventual calling of Jesus as the prophet raised by God. He accuses the listeners of resisting the Holy Spirit and murdering prophets, thereby justifying their contempt. The speech culminates with Stephen’s prayer, the Holy Spirit, and the stoning of the apostle, symbolizing the church’s early persecution.