Acts 7:58

Afrikaans DB 2006 (Die Boodskap)

Hulle het hom gegryp en uitgesleep tot buitekant die stadsmure. Daar het hulle hom met klippe begin gooi. Party van die mans het hulle hemde uitgetrek sodat hulle Stefanus nog makliker onder die klippe kon steek. Hulle het ’n jongman met die naam Saulus gevra om hulle klere op te pas.

What Does This Mean?

This verse describes the stoning of Stephen and mentions that Saul (later known as Paul) was present at the event. The witnesses, who were throwing stones, placed their clothes with a young man named Saul. This shows how Saul, who would later become an important figure in Christianity, was involved in this incident.

Explained for Children

Imagine you're playing catch in the park and some kids decide to throw stones at another kid instead of the ball. That's kind of what happened here, but it wasn't a game. A man named Stephen was being stoned by others, and the people throwing the stones asked their friend Saul (who would later become very important) to watch over their clothes.

Historical Background

Acts is part of the New Testament written by Luke around AD 80-90 for a gentile audience. The book narrates early Christian history, including key figures like Stephen and Saul. This event took place in Jerusalem where Jewish customs and laws were strictly followed.

Living It Out Today

This verse can remind us of how people's roles change over time. Saul later became Paul, the great apostle who preached about Jesus' love and forgiveness. Just as he changed his heart, we too can change our hearts towards others and work on becoming better versions of ourselves.

Topics

• forgiveness
• transformation
• persecution
• witnessing
• conversion
• early church history

Related Verses

• Luke 23:27
• 1 Corinthians 9:26
• Galatians 1:13-14
• Acts 8:1
• Romans 10:9

Frequently Asked Questions

Why did the witnesses lay down their clothes at Saul’s feet?

In biblical times, laying down clothes indicated trust. The witnesses trusted Saul to keep their belongings safe while they stoned Stephen.

What is the significance of Saul in this event?

Saul's presence here is significant because he later becomes Paul, a key figure in spreading Christianity. This shows how his early actions contrast with his future faith.

How does this verse relate to the broader context of Acts?

This event demonstrates the persecution faced by early Christians and sets up Saul's eventual conversion, which is crucial for understanding the spread of Christianity.

What can we learn about forgiveness from Stephen’s stoning?

Though not explicitly mentioned here, Acts later shows Stephen forgiving his attackers. This teaches us about the power of forgiveness even in difficult circumstances.