Words for blasphemous words, A.V. and T.R. Set up false witnesses. The similarity of Stephen's trial to that of our Lord is striking. The same set purpose to silence a true-speaking tongue by death; the same base employment of false witnesses; the same wresting of good words into criminal acts; and the same meekness and patience unto death in the righteous martyrs.
Blessed servant to tread so closely in thy Lord's steps! (comp. Matthew 5:11,Matthew 5:12; 1 Peter 4:1-19. 14-16). This holy place; the Sanhedrim sat in one of the chambers of the temple, called Gazith.
This had been prohibited by the Romans, but the prohibition was in abeyance in the present time of anarchy (Lewin).