 until the New Testament was in force. Hebrews 10:9 says that like this:
He taketh away the first, that he may establish the second.
Stephen apparently tried to teach the Jews about the new covenant. It had been prophesied by Moses and all the prophets. The Jews would not accept that. So they distorted Stephen's words to say that Jesus shall change the Law of Moses. Now, these Pharisees considered that blasphemy, or cursing Moses and his law. So, that's the charge! Have you got it? Let's read v. 15;
And all that sat in the council, looking steadfastly on him, saw his face as it had been the face of an angel.
Stephen kept a pleasant countenance or facial expression. He must have stood there as if he had all the confidence in the world, yes as humble as he could be. This must have caused the councilmen to observe him very closely while the charges were presented. It would be interesting here to know where the 12 apostles were, but the Spirit did not see fit to inform us. Let's read the first verse of chapter 7.
Then said the high priest, Are these things so?
That's like saying, "guilty" or "not guilty"? Stephen is then permitted to speak in his own defense. We'll cover and consider Stephen's reply in lesson 16.