King James Version
What Does Acts 7:55 Mean?
“But he, being full of the Holy Ghost, looked up stedfastly into heaven, and saw the glory of God, and Jesus standing on the right hand of God,”
Context
53
Who have received the law by the disposition of angels, and have not kept it.
54
When they heard these things, they were cut to the heart , and they gnashed on him with their teeth.
55
But he, being full of the Holy Ghost, looked up stedfastly into heaven, and saw the glory of God, and Jesus standing on the right hand of God,
56
And said, Behold, I see the heavens opened, and the Son of man standing on the right hand of God.
57
Then they cried out with a loud voice, and stopped their ears, and ran upon him with one accord,
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(55) **Being full of the Holy Ghost.**—There is something suggestive in the fact that this description comes at the close, as at the beginning, of the record of St. Stephen’s work (Acts 6:8). From first to last he had been conspicuous as manifesting the power of the higher life which had, as it were, illumined and transfigured his whole being. The Greek “being full” implies, not a sudden inspiration, but a permanent state.
**And saw the glory of God.**—Stephen had begun with speaking of “the God of glory” (Acts 7:2). He ends with the vision of that glory as belonging to the Son of Man. The fact was inferred partly, we may believe, from the rapt, fixed expression of the martyr’s face, partly from the words that followed, interpreting that upward gaze. On the word for “looked up steadfastly,” see Note on Acts 3:4.
Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.
Historical Context
This verse is found in the book of Acts. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.
Theological Significance
Acts 7:55 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Cross-References
Verses related to Acts 7:55
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge