Acts 7 records Stephen's defense before the high priest and council, where he retells Israel's history from Abraham to Solomon to show their pattern of resisting God. The chapter ends with Stephen's vision of Jesus and his stoning, as Saul looks on approvingly.

Acts 6 records the apostles addressing a complaint about neglected widows by appointing seven men full of the Spirit and wisdom to serve tables, while they devoted themselves to prayer and the word. It then focuses on Stephen, who performed great wonders, debated with various synagogues, and was seized and brought before the council on false charges, where his face appeared like an angel.

Acts 5 records the deception and death of Ananias and Sapphira, the apostles' miraculous healings and imprisonment, and their bold defense before the council. It shows the church growing amid internal judgment and external opposition.

Acts 4 shows Peter and John arrested and questioned by the religious council for healing a crippled man and preaching Jesus. Filled with the Holy Spirit, they boldly declare salvation in no other name, then join the church in prayer for continued boldness, resulting in unity and generous sharing.

Acts 3 tells how Peter and John heal a man lame from birth at the temple gate, and Peter then preaches to the astonished crowd about Jesus, calling them to repent. The chapter links the healing to faith in Jesus' name and to God's ancient promises to Israel.