ASK THE COACHES: Why did the "witnesses lay their clothes at Saul's feet"?

QUESTION: In Acts 7:58, it says "Meanwhile, the witnesses laid their clothes at the feet of a young man named Saul." Why do they tell us that? Does it mean anything? - Wondering About Paul.

ANSWER: In Biblical times, stoning (executing a criminal by throwing stones at him/her) was one of the forms of capital punishment. For most trials, the testimony of two or more witnesses was required, and then the punishment was assigned by a judge. But in the few cases where stoning was required (blasphemy, murder, etc.) the Law required that the witnesses who testified against the accused, also be the first ones to throw their stones. Thus, they the laying down of clothes indicated that it was Saul who was in some way officiating at the execution, noting who were the witnesses taking the official role as executioners.

This contrast with the man who would be called Paul and bravely face down would-be executioners will show us God's power to change hearts and lives.