I Appeal To Caesar!

defense is anticipated, an easy statement that can be manipulated by the bogus decision makers.

Instead, an explosion occurs!

Stephen’s bold, defiant, Scriptural response is unexpected, even terrifying! But, more than words! Every member of the session has focused an intense gaze on Stephen. While being falsely accused, Stephen’s face glows as though he has the face of an angel ! Stephen challenges Caiaphas and his reduced council, recounting appropriate events from Jewish Scripture that illustrate the dealings of God with His people. Pointing directly at Caiaphas, the accused boldly makes present application of ancient, real-life, Scripture stories to those present at his trial! Finally, Stephen the bold victim, ignoring their rage, hurls his own bone-breaking rock: “You stiff-necked and uncircumcised in heart and ears! You always resist the Holy Spirit; as your fathers did, so do you!” The tables are turned! Stephen tongue-lashes his accusers, becoming a super- charged, prosecuting attorney! Unafraid, Stephen issues his last scalding indictment, calling them the “betrayers and murderers” of Jesus of Nazareth, the Jewish Messiah —the Son of God and Savior of all mankind!

This is too much! Violent rage fills their souls, and

they gnash their teeth at him; they jump to their feet . . .