Studies 1 to 2
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ADA026
The arrest of Stephen
The article analyzes the arrest of Stephen (Acts 6.8-12) in Jerusalem around AD 34-35. Although appointed among the Seven, Stephen carries out a remarkable apostolic ministry. His witness provokes the opposition of Hellenistic Jews who, unable to refute him, resort to false witnesses to bring him before the Sanhedrin. Luke highlights the parallels with the trial of Jesus and the gradual extension of the persecution to the whole Church.
Acts 6.12-13 (King James Version) :And they stirred up the people, and the elders, and the scribes, and came upon him, and caught him, and brought him to the council,And set up false witnesses, which said, This man ceaseth not to speak blasphemous words against this holy place, and the law:King James Version (1769), domaine public — texte : eBible.org -
ADA027
Stephen's appearance before the Sanhedrin
The appearance of Stephen before the Sanhedrin (Acts 6.12-15), around AD 34-35, is initiated by Hellenistic opponents from the synagogue of the Freedmen. Unable to refute his wisdom, they resort to false witnesses. The accusations concern the Temple and the Law, recalling the trial of Jesus. Luke thus draws an intentional parallel between the Master and his disciple.
Luke 1.1-4 (King James Version) :Forasmuch as many have taken in hand to set forth in order a declaration of those things which are most surely believed among us,Even as they delivered them unto us, which from the beginning were eyewitnesses, and ministers of the word;It seemed good to me also, having had perfect understanding of all things from the very first, to write unto thee in order, most excellent Theophilus,That thou mightest know the certainty of those things, wherein thou hast been instructed.King James Version (1769), domaine public — texte : eBible.org