Acts 7:1

KJV

¶ Then said the high priest, Are these things so?

KJV (with Strong's)

Then {G1161} said {G2036} the high priest {G749}, Are {G1487}{G686}{G2192} these things {G5023} so {G3779}?

Complete Jewish Bible

The cohen hagadol asked, “Are these accusations true?”

Berean Standard Bible

Then the high priest asked Stephen, “Are these charges true?”

American Standard Version

And the high priest said, Are these things so?

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Acts 7:1 marks the solemn beginning of Stephen's trial before the Sanhedrin, where the high priest formally initiates proceedings by asking, "Are these things so?" This direct, yet understated, question serves as the official invitation for Stephen to respond to the grave accusations of blasphemy against God, Moses, the Temple, and the Law that have been leveled against him. It sets the stage for one of the New Testament's most extensive and Spirit-empowered defenses, a profound recounting of Israel's history culminating in a powerful indictment of his accusers and a vision of the glorified Christ.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Acts 7:1 flows directly from the dramatic events of [Acts 6](/acts/6 "Acts 6 - The Appointment of Deacons and Stephen's Arrest"). Stephen, introduced as one of the seven men chosen to serve the Hellenist widows, is quickly highlighted as "a man full of God's grace and power, performed great wonders and signs among the people" ([Acts 6:8](/acts/6-8 "Acts 6:8 - Stephen's Ministry")). His wisdom and the Spirit by which he spoke proved irresistible to his opponents, leading them to fabricate false charges and stir up the people, elders, and teachers of the law. He was then seized and brought before the Sanhedrin, where false witnesses accused him of speaking blasphemous words against Moses and God, and against the Temple and the Law ([Acts 6:11-14](/acts/6-11-14 "Acts 6:11-14 - False Accusations Against Stephen")). The verse immediately preceding, [Acts 6:15](/acts/6-15 "Acts 6:15 - Stephen's Radiant Face"), describes how all who were sitting in the Sanhedrin looked intently at Stephen and saw that his face was like the face of an angel, a divine attestation to his innocence and the Spirit's presence. Thus, the high priest's question in [Acts 7:1](/acts/7-1 "Acts 7:1 - The High Priest's Question") is the formal opening of this high-stakes judicial proceeding.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The Sanhedrin was the supreme Jewish judicial and legislative body in Jerusalem during the Second Temple period. Composed of 71 members, including chief priests, elders, and scribes, it held significant religious and civil authority under Roman oversight. The high priest, likely Caiaphas (who also presided over Jesus' trial), served as its president. The charges against Stephen—blasphemy against the Temple and the Law—were among the most serious accusations a Jew could face, punishable by death. The Temple was the center of Jewish worship and national identity, and the Law (Torah) was considered divine revelation. To speak against them was to attack the very foundations of Judaism. This trial reflects the growing tension between the nascent Christian movement, which proclaimed Jesus as the Messiah and the fulfillment of the Law and prophets, and the established Jewish religious leadership, who largely rejected these claims and viewed the Christians as a dangerous sect. Stephen, as a Hellenistic Jew, may have been perceived as particularly threatening due to his perceived disregard for traditional Jewish customs and institutions.
* **Key Themes:** The high priest's simple question in [Acts 7:1](/acts/7-1 "Acts 7:1 - The High Priest's Question") introduces several profound themes that will unfold throughout Stephen's subsequent discourse. Firstly, it highlights the **formal interrogation** and **confrontation with religious authority**. Stephen stands before the same institution that condemned Jesus, underscoring the continuity of opposition faced by God's messengers. Secondly, it raises the critical theme of the **nature of truth and witness**. The question "Are these things so?" invites a defense, but Stephen's response transcends a mere refutation of charges. Instead, it becomes a Spirit-inspired historical sermon, demonstrating how God's redemptive plan, culminating in Jesus Christ, was consistently rejected by Israel's leadership, culminating in their rejection of the Messiah. This sets up the dramatic tension between human accusation and divine vindication, and between the letter of the Law and the Spirit of God. Stephen's speech, beginning in [Acts 7:2](/acts/7-2 "Acts 7:2 - Stephen's Defense Begins"), will reveal the true nature of the "things" that are "so" – not the false accusations against him, but the enduring pattern of Israel's rebellion against God's prophets and, ultimately, against His Son.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **High priest (Greek, _archiereús'_):** Derived from `ἀρχή` (chief) and `ἱερεύς` (priest), this term refers to the chief priest, specifically the Jewish high priest, who served as the head of the Sanhedrin and the highest religious authority. In this context, it signifies the pinnacle of the religious establishment that Stephen is confronting, echoing the trials of Jesus and Peter and John before the same office. The high priest's role was to represent the people before God, but here, he represents the human authority standing in judgment of God's messenger.
* **Said (Greek, _épō'_):** This verb denotes a direct, definite utterance. While the Strong's definition includes "answer, bid, bring word, call, command, grant, say (on), speak, tell," in this context, it emphasizes the formal, authoritative nature of the high priest's opening statement. It's not a casual inquiry but a judicial command for Stephen to respond to the allegations, initiating the legal process.
* **So (Greek, _hoútō'_):** This adverb means "in this way" or "thus," referring to what precedes or follows. In the high priest's question, "Are these things so?", `hoútō` refers to the accusations brought against Stephen in [Acts 6:11-14](/acts/6-11-14 "Acts 6:11-14 - The Charges Against Stephen"). It's a request for confirmation regarding the truthfulness of the charges, setting the stage for Stephen's defense which will reframe what is "so" from a divine perspective.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"¶ Then said the high priest,"**: This clause establishes the speaker and the formal setting. The "Then" (G1161, _dé_) serves as a transition, linking the previous description of Stephen's angelic face ([Acts 6:15](/acts/6-15 "Acts 6:15 - Stephen's Radiant Face")) to the high priest's direct address. The high priest, as the presiding officer of the Sanhedrin, initiates the proceedings, underscoring the gravity and official nature of Stephen's trial. His authority is absolute in this context, and his question demands an immediate response.
* **"Are these things so?"**: This is a direct interrogative, translating the Greek `εἰ ἔχει ταῦτα οὕτως` (ei echei tauta houtōs?). The phrase literally means "Do these things stand in this way?" or "Are these things thus?" It is a formal demand for Stephen to confirm or deny the accusations of blasphemy against Moses, the Law, and the Temple, as detailed in [Acts 6:11-14](/acts/6-11-14 "Acts 6:11-14 - The Accusations"). While seemingly neutral, it places the burden of proof (or refutation) squarely on Stephen, inviting him to respond to the charges that could lead to his death.

#### Literary Devices
The verse primarily employs **Interrogation**, as the high priest's statement is a direct question designed to elicit a response from Stephen. This simple query, however, is imbued with **Dramatic Irony**. The Sanhedrin, believing they hold the power to judge and condemn, are about to become the recipients of a powerful, Spirit-filled sermon that will expose their own spiritual blindness and historical rejection of God's messengers. The question also serves as a powerful instance of **Foreshadowing**, as it immediately precedes Stephen's lengthy and climactic defense, which will ultimately lead to his martyrdom. The seemingly mundane legal opening thus becomes the gateway to a profound theological discourse and a pivotal moment in early church history.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Acts 7:1, though brief, is profoundly significant as it marks the beginning of Stephen's Spirit-empowered witness before the highest Jewish religious authority. It underscores the theme of divine sovereignty in the face of human opposition, demonstrating that God's plan unfolds even through trials and persecution. Stephen's willingness to stand before such a formidable court, mirroring Christ's own trial, highlights the courage and conviction required to bear witness to the Gospel. This moment also emphasizes the prophetic nature of the early Christian movement, which, like the Old Testament prophets, confronted religious leaders with uncomfortable truths about their spiritual failures and rejection of God's will. The question "Are these things so?" becomes a catalyst for a divine revelation, turning a legal defense into a powerful sermon that reinterprets Israel's history through the lens of Christ.

* [Matthew 26:57-68](/matthew/26-57-68 "Matthew 26:57-68 - Jesus' Trial Before the Sanhedrin")
* [Acts 4:7](/acts/4-7 "Acts 4:7 - Peter and John Questioned by the Sanhedrin")
* [1 Peter 3:15](/1_peter/3-15 "1 Peter 3:15 - Always Be Prepared to Give an Answer")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Acts 7:1 serves as a powerful reminder that following Christ often involves facing scrutiny, opposition, and even formal challenges to our faith. Stephen, full of grace and power, did not shy away from the confrontation but stood ready to articulate the truth. For believers today, this verse encourages us to cultivate a deep understanding of our faith, not merely for intellectual assent, but so that we are prepared to give a reasoned and Spirit-led defense when questioned or accused. It calls us to courageously speak truth to power, whether that power is institutional, cultural, or personal, trusting that God will provide the words and the wisdom. Stephen's example teaches us that our "defense" may not always be a simple denial of charges, but a profound declaration of God's redemptive history culminating in Christ, even if it leads to personal cost. It reminds us that our ultimate allegiance is to Christ, and our ultimate vindication comes from Him.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does Stephen's posture before the high priest inspire you to face challenges to your faith with courage and conviction?**
* **In what areas of your life might you be called to "speak truth to power," even when it is uncomfortable or unpopular?**
* **What steps can you take to deepen your understanding of the Gospel and God's redemptive history, so you are better prepared to articulate your faith when asked, as encouraged in [1 Peter 3:15](/1_peter/3-15 "1 Peter 3:15 - Always Be Ready to Give a Defense")?**

### FAQ

**Who was the high priest mentioned in Acts 7:1?**

Answer: While the text does not explicitly name him, it is highly probable that the high priest presiding over Stephen's trial was Caiaphas. Caiaphas served as high priest from approximately AD 18 to 36 and was the same individual who presided over the trial of Jesus ([Matthew 26:57](/matthew/26-57 "Matthew 26:57 - Jesus Before Caiaphas")) and later questioned Peter and John ([Acts 4:6](/acts/4-6 "Acts 4:6 - Peter and John Before the Sanhedrin")). His long tenure and prominent role in the Sanhedrin make him the most likely figure to be leading this formal interrogation.

**Why was Stephen on trial before the Sanhedrin?**

Answer: Stephen was brought before the Sanhedrin on serious charges of blasphemy, as detailed in [Acts 6:11-14](/acts/6-11-14 "Acts 6:11-14 - The Accusations Against Stephen"). He was accused of speaking "blasphemous words against Moses and against God" and specifically against "this holy place [the Temple] and the law." These accusations arose because Stephen, "full of grace and power," was performing great wonders and signs and engaging in debates with certain Jewish groups who "could not stand up against the wisdom the Spirit gave him" ([Acts 6:8-10](/acts/6-8-10 "Acts 6:8-10 - Stephen's Ministry and Opposition")). The charges reflected the growing tension between traditional Judaism and the emerging Christian movement, which was perceived as undermining the authority of the Temple and the Mosaic Law.

**What is the significance of the high priest's question, "Are these things so?"**

Answer: The question "Are these things so?" is a formal legal opening, inviting Stephen to respond to the accusations against him. Its significance lies not in its complexity, but in what it initiates. It sets the stage for Stephen's profound and lengthy defense, which transcends a simple denial of charges. Instead, Stephen uses this opportunity to deliver a comprehensive historical sermon, tracing God's dealings with Israel from Abraham to Christ, exposing Israel's consistent rebellion against God's messengers, and culminating in a sharp rebuke of his accusers for their rejection of the Messiah ([Acts 7:2-53](/acts/7-2-53 "Acts 7:2-53 - Stephen's Speech")). The seemingly simple question thus becomes the gateway for a divinely inspired declaration of truth that ultimately leads to Stephen's martyrdom.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Acts 7:1, with the high priest's formal question, initiates a profound Christ-centered narrative. Stephen, standing before the Sanhedrin, mirrors Christ's own trial before the very same religious authority ([Matthew 26:57-68](/matthew/26-57-68 "Matthew 26:57-68 - Jesus' Trial Before Caiaphas")). Just as Jesus was falsely accused and condemned by the Jewish leaders, so too is Stephen, a follower "full of the Holy Spirit" ([Acts 6:5](/acts/6-5 "Acts 6:5 - Stephen Chosen as a Deacon")), facing similar charges. Stephen's subsequent speech in [Acts 7](/acts/7 "Acts 7 - Stephen's Speech and Martyrdom") is a powerful Christ-centered reinterpretation of Israel's history, demonstrating how God's redemptive plan consistently pointed to Jesus as the ultimate fulfillment of the Law, the prophets, and the Temple. Stephen's bold declaration, culminating in his vision of "the Son of Man standing at the right hand of God" ([Acts 7:56](/acts/7-56 "Acts 7:56 - Stephen's Vision of Jesus")), directly links his testimony to Christ's divine authority and heavenly enthronement. His martyrdom, mirroring Christ's death with a prayer for his persecutors ([Acts 7:60](/acts/7-60 "Acts 7:60 - Stephen's Dying Prayer")), serves as a powerful testament to the transformative power of Christ's example and the Spirit's presence, even in the face of ultimate human rejection. Stephen's trial is not merely a historical event; it is a vivid illustration of how Christ's redemptive work continues to be proclaimed and embodied through His faithful witnesses, even unto death, thereby fulfilling the pattern of prophetic suffering and ultimate vindication found in the Messiah himself ([Luke 24:46-47](/luke/24-46-47 "Luke 24:46-47 - The Messiah's Suffering and Resurrection")).

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

John 18:19

The high priest then asked Jesus of his disciples, and of his doctrine.

John 18:21

Why askest thou me? ask them which heard me, what I have said unto them: behold, they know what I said.

Matthew 26:61

And said, This [fellow] said, I am able to destroy the temple of God, and to build it in three days.

Matthew 26:62

And the high priest arose, and said unto him, Answerest thou nothing? what [is it which] these witness against thee?

John 18:33

Then Pilate entered into the judgment hall again, and called Jesus, and said unto him, Art thou the King of the Jews?

John 18:35

Pilate answered, Am I a Jew? Thine own nation and the chief priests have delivered thee unto me: what hast thou done?

Mark 14:58

We heard him say, I will destroy this temple that is made with hands, and within three days I will build another made without hands.