Matthew Poole and continuators on Acts 7:56

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

God not suffering any distance to hinder this refreshing sight.

So Christ is frequently called; and St. Stephen would by this inform them, how vain they were in striving against Christ or his truth.

As an Advocate, Soldier, or Captain for Stephen; or as one shewing the prize unto him, whic[illegible: 1 letter] he was now running for, and had need to be incouraged with the sight of: But it seems strange, that St. Stephen should tell the Iews of this Heavenly vision, being they did not see it, altho in the same place with him; but this he might do, 1. Out of his ardent love to Christ, desiring to magnifie him. 2. To invite his enemies to Repentance; now Heaven was opened, and Christs arms were stretched out to receive them. 3. To hinder any from being afraid to own Christ, and his truths. 4. To terrifie the most obdurate amongst them, by shewing them their judge, and minding them of his avenger. 5. That he might assert himself to be an eye-witness of Christs being risen again from the dead, which they made such difficulty to believe.

Marginal references: Mat. 3.16.