Expositor's Bible Commentary Commentary Acts 6:15

"And all that sat in the council, fastening their eyes on him, saw his face as it had been the face of an angel." — Acts 6:15 (ASV)

The members of the council “looked intently” at Stephen as he was brought before them and saw one whose appearance was “like the face of an angel.” Luke probably wants us to understand that Stephen, being filled with the Holy Spirit (6:3, 5) and possessing a genuine spiritual winsomeness (6:8), radiated a presence marked by confidence, serenity, and courage. And with the question of the high priest—“Are these charges true?”—the stage is set for Stephen’s defense.