New Testament
Acts 7:56
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
"Look!" he said. "I see the heavens opened and the Son of Man standing at the right hand of God!"
Compare translations
And said, Behold, I see the heavens opened, and the Son of man standing on the right hand of God.
What Acts 7:56 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this moment, Stephen, a follower of Jesus, is experiencing a profound vision. He sees the heavens open up, revealing a glorious sight. The Son of Man, a title for Jesus, is standing at God's right hand, a position of honor and authority. This vision signifies that Jesus is alive and actively involved in the lives of believers. Stephen's declaration is not just a statement; it’s a powerful affirmation of his faith. Despite facing persecution, he remains steadfast, knowing that he is not alone. This moment highlights the connection between heaven and earth, showing that God is always present, especially in our struggles. Stephen's vision encourages us to look beyond our circumstances and recognize the divine support available to us. It reminds us that faith can provide strength and hope, even in the darkest times. Stephen's experience serves as a testament to the reality of Jesus' power and presence in our lives, urging us to trust in Him fully, no matter what challenges we face.
How to apply Acts 7:56 to your life
When facing difficulties, remember that you are not alone. Just as Stephen saw Jesus standing with him, you can find comfort in knowing that God is always by your side. Take a moment to reflect on your faith and the support available to you. Trust in that presence to guide you through tough times. Let this assurance strengthen your resolve to keep moving forward with hope and courage.
Curated for this public verse page. Acts Summary
Explore more of the Bible
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.
Illustrated scene from Paul's story: The Stoning of Stephen (Acts 7:57–8:2)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Paul
Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002724966). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Bethlehem, West Bank; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Bethlehem
David's hometown, and the town where Jesus was born.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about Acts 7:56
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying Acts 7:56
Related Bible verses
Key themes
Related topics
At a Glance — the Book of Acts
- Author
- Luke the physician
- Written
- Around AD 62
- Genre
- Historical narrative
- Original Audience
- Gentile Christians (addressed to Theophilus)
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Acts 7:56 mean by 'the Son of Man'?
In Acts 7:56, 'the Son of Man' refers to Jesus Christ, a title He often used for Himself. This title emphasizes His humanity and His role as the Messiah. Stephen's vision of Jesus standing at God's right hand signifies Jesus' authority and His active involvement in the lives of believers, affirming His divine nature and the hope of salvation.
Why is Stephen's vision significant in Acts 7:56?
Stephen's vision in Acts 7:56 is significant because it illustrates his unwavering faith in Jesus, even in the face of persecution. It serves as a powerful reminder of the reality of Christ's presence and authority. This moment not only reassures Stephen but also encourages believers to trust in God's support during their struggles, highlighting the connection between heaven and earth.
How can Acts 7:56 inspire us in tough times?
Acts 7:56 can inspire us by reminding us that we are not alone in our struggles. Just as Stephen saw Jesus standing with him, we can find comfort in knowing that God is always present, offering support and strength. This verse encourages us to maintain our faith and look beyond our circumstances, trusting that divine help is available to guide us through difficult moments.
How does Acts 7:56 relate to the theme of perseverance?
Acts 7:56 relates to the theme of perseverance by showcasing Stephen's steadfast faith despite facing imminent death. His vision of Jesus standing with him serves as a source of strength, encouraging believers to remain faithful in adversity. This moment highlights that perseverance in faith can lead to divine support, reminding us that God is with us even in our most challenging times.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.