Why did Stephen see Jesus standing at the right hand of God?
Everywhere else in the Bible where this scene is described, Jesus is sitting, not standing. Is this significant? Stephen was boldly defending his faith, speaking with power and authority. He was facing false accusations and hatred from some of the Jews in the area and was on trial in front of the High Priest because of his faith in Christ Jesus. His words in his own defense so enraged the Jews gathered there that they stoned him to death.
Perhaps Jesus was standing up in recognition and approval of a good and faithful servant. I would like to think so. I can't imagine what Stephen must have felt as he saw that scene. What a privilege...
"But being full of the Holy Spirit, he gazed intently into heaven and saw the glory of God, and Jesus standing at the right hand of God; and he said, “Behold, I see the heavens opened up and the Son of Man standing at the right hand of God.” "
Acts 7:55-56 NASB