Stephen's Defense – Abraham

Stephen was accused by the Hellenistic Jews of speaking blasphemous words against Moses and the Temple. The claims were partially true. The New Covenant replaces the Old Covenant because all the types and shadows have been fulfilled in Jesus Christ. However, the charges were exaggerated and misleading because the accusers did not understand the message of the gospel.

Stephen's arrest signals a new direction in the persecution of the church. Christians were first thought to be Jews following a popular but dangerous Rabbi, Jesus Christ. They worshipped in the Temple and practice Jewish customs, but now they are seen as seeking to replace Jewish worship with the worship of Jesus.
Stephen's defense (Chapter 7) is the longest recorded speech in Acts. It first appears to be a pointless rehearsal of Old Testament history. Even Calvin wrote that “Stephen's answer may seem at the first blush absurd and foolish.” However, a careful reading reveals that Stephen carefully argues that (1) God's program is characterized by change and progress as he sovereignly works to bring about His purposes. (2) The blessings of God are not limited to Israel or her law and Temple. (3) Jewish history reveals a pattern of resistance, rebellion, and rejection, often resulting in the killing of God's servants.

Stephen focuses on the promised land, the law of Moses, and the Temple as the place of God's worship and presence.