What does Acts 7:60 mean?

Explanation

Acts 7:60 depicts a poignant and climactic moment in the early Christian church's history.

The verse describes the final words and actions of Stephen, the first Christian martyr, as he is being stoned to death by an angry mob.

Literally, the verse tells us that Stephen, while experiencing the pain of his execution, kneels down and loudly prays to the Lord (God), asking for forgiveness on behalf of those who are executing him.

After making this plea, Stephen "fell asleep," which is a euphemistic way of saying he died.

On a deeper level, the verse exemplifies a profound expression of Christian forgiveness and mirrors the attitudes of Jesus Christ himself, who, according to Luke 23:34, asked God to forgive his crucifiers.

Stephen's action and prayer demonstrate an ultimate commitment to the teachings and spirit of Christ , forgiving one's persecutors, even in the face of death.

Historical Context

This verse takes place in the context of Stephen's trial and subsequent execution which is detailed in Acts 7.

Stephen, one of the seven deacons chosen by the apostles to serve the Hellenistic (Greek-speaking) Jewish Christians in Jerusalem, was arrested on charges of blasphemy.

In his defense, he delivered a lengthy sermon recounting the history of Israel and accusing the Sanhedrin , the Jewish court , of resisting the Holy Spirit and the prophets, including Jesus Christ.

The members of the Sanhedrin, enraged by Stephen's accusations, took him out of the city and stoned him to death.

Theological Insights

From a Christian theological perspective, this verse demonstrates the power of grace and the act of forgiveness as a divine attribute that believers are called to emulate.

It reinforces the Christian belief in resurrection and life after death, as seen in the term "fell asleep," which suggests a peaceful transition to the afterlife.

Furthermore, Stephen's martyrdom serves as a testimony to the strength of faith, holding fast to one's beliefs even unto death, and it highlights the concept of witness (Greek: "martyr" means "witness").

Different Christian traditions might emphasize various aspects of Stephen's actions. For example, some may focus on the martyrdom itself as an act of ultimate witness, while others might stress the importance of forgiveness and love for enemies as central to Christian ethics.

Practical Applications

This verse can be applied to daily life as an encouragement for individuals to practice forgiveness, even in the most challenging circumstances. It serves as a reminder that holding grudges or seeking vengeance can be transcended by mercy and love.

Furthermore, Stephen's example reminds believers to stand firm in their convictions and to respond to persecution and injustice with a spirit of grace rather than retaliation.

Cross-References

• Luke 23:34: "Then said Jesus, Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do.

And they parted his raiment, and cast lots."

• Matthew 5:44: "But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you;"
• 1 Thessalonians 4:13-14: "But I would not have you to be ignorant, brethren, concerning them which are asleep, that ye sorrow not, even as others which have no hope.

For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so them also which sleep in Jesus will God bring with him."

Language Study

The key phrase "lay not this sin to their charge" in the original Greek is "μὴ στήσῃς αὐτοῖς ταύτην τὴν ἁμαρτίαν" (mē stēsēs autois tautēn tēn hamartian).

The verb "στήσῃς" (stēsēs) is a form of "ἵστημι" (histēmi), meaning "to place" or "to set." Used in this context, it suggests not accounting or imputing the sin to them.

The word "ἁμαρτίαν" (hamartian) means "sin," which in a biblical context often implies a wrongdoing, an offense, or a trespass against divine law.

The term "fell asleep" translates to "ἐκοιμήθη" (ekoimēthē) from the Greek verb "κοιμάω" (koimaō), which is used in the New Testament as a metaphor for death for believers, indicating a peaceful end and a hopeful resurrection.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

Stephen's prayer of forgiveness for his persecutors parallels similar themes of forgiveness and self-sacrifice in other religious traditions.

For example, in Buddhism, there's the concept of compassion and loving-kindness (Metta) towards all beings.

In Hinduism, there are stories of saints who forgave those who harmed them, interpreting suffering through the lens of karma and non-attachment.

In the cultural context of the Greco-Roman world, such acts of forgiveness were uncommon, as honor and retribution in response to wrongdoings were valued. Stephen's actions would have stood in stark contrast to the prevailing attitudes of his day.

Scientific Perspectives

The scientific perspective may not directly engage with the theological or ethical content of the verse, but it could offer insight into the psychological effects of forgiveness. Research in psychology indicates that acts of forgiveness can lead to reduced stress and better mental health.

The verse also makes use of the sleep metaphor for death; scientific understanding acknowledges that metaphors help in coping with and conceptualizing the finality of death.

Commentaries

Commentaries on Acts 7:60 often focus on the Christlike nature of Stephen's prayer, emphasizing how his forgiveness reflects Jesus' teachings and actions.

Commentators may also discuss the importance of Stephen's martyrdom in the context of early Christianity, both as an example of steadfast faith and as a catalyst for the spread of the gospel, especially as Saul (later Paul the Apostle) witnesses this event.

The idea of "falling asleep" is viewed as a tender depiction of death for a believer, which contrasts with the grim reality of martyrdom but aligns with the Christian hope of resurrection and eternal life.