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Book of Acts - Chapter 7 - Verse 56

7:56
And said, Behold, I see the heavens opened, and the Son of man standing on the right hand of God.

Meaning

When Stephen uttered the words, "Behold, I see the heavens opened, and the Son of man standing on the right hand of God," he was describing a powerful moment of spiritual revelation. In this verse from the Book of Acts, Stephen, a disciple of Jesus, was filled with the Holy Spirit and granted a vision of Jesus standing at the right hand of God in heaven. The image of Jesus standing is significant as it signifies a readiness to act or intervene on behalf of his followers. The right hand of God is a position of honor and authority, indicating Jesus' divine nature and his role as the mediator between God and humanity. This moment marked Stephen's faithfulness to Jesus, even in the face of persecution and eventual martyrdom. It serves as a reminder of the ultimate victory of Christ over sin and death, offering hope and encouragement to believers facing adversity.

Theological Overview

The theological interpretation of the verse where Stephen sees the heavens opened and the Son of man standing on the right hand of God is significant in understanding the divinity of Jesus Christ. The reference to the Son of man standing at the right hand of God echoes Psalm 110:1, where the Lord said to my Lord, "Sit at my right hand until I make your enemies a footstool for your feet." This imagery indicates Jesus' exalted position of authority and power in heaven. The phrase "Son of man" reflects Jesus' humanity and divinity, as he is the fulfillment of the messianic prophecy in Daniel 7:13-14. By seeing Jesus standing at the right hand of God, Stephen affirms Jesus' role as the divine Son of God, mediating between God and humanity. This heavenly vision reinforces Stephen's faith and courage as he faces martyrdom, confident in the presence and power of the exalted Son of man.

American Standard Version

and said, Behold, I see the heavens opened, and the Son of Man standing on the right hand of God.
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