1A.  THE FIRST STAGE OF OPPOSING THE TRUTH IS BY ARGUMENTATION

1B.  The First, notice the source of these arguments against Stephen.

2B.  The substance of the arguments can be gathered from Luke’s use of the word “disputing” in verse 9.

3B.  But the strength of Stephen’s arguments proved too much for these opponents of truth.

2A.  STAGE TWO OF THE ENEMY’S OPPOSITION TO THE TRUTH IS FOUND IN VERSES 11-14.  THE ENEMIES OF STEPHEN’S LORD TURN THEIR GUNS ON HIM AND BEGIN TO ASSASSINATE HIS CHARACTER.

This was done in three stages to discredit Stephen. Notice what they did.

1B.  First, they suborned men

2B.  Having started a little fire, the opponents of truth began to fan their little fire.  This is done by stirring up the people, verse 12.

3B.  Once the officials responded to the pressure of the crowd, false witnesses were set up to guarantee Stephen’s downfall, verses 13-14:

3A.  THE FINAL STAGE OF THE ENEMY’S OPPOSITION TO THE TRUTH IS TO ASSURE HIS SILENCE