What is the significance of Stephen's answer to the Sanhedrin prior to being martyred?

The accusation against Stephen was that "Jesus will destroy this place and will change the customs that Moses delivered to us." Stephen then gave a long speech starting with Abraham, through Moses, to David and Solomon, and finally ending with Isaiah 66:1-2 about the house that man will build for God. What is the significance of this long speech that so enraged the Sanhedrin that they made him the first Christian martyr?

Acts 7:1 - 53

ESV - ¹ And the high priest said, "Are these things so? ² And Stephen said: "Brothers and fathers, hear me. The God of glory appeared to our father Abraham when he was in Mesopotamia, before he lived in Haran.

Clarify (2) • Share • Report • Asked March 29 2013 • Colin Wong Supporter