If Stephen was from a Greek-speaking background, it is very probable that he was a regular visitor to the synagogue of the Freedmen. This is then also where most of the discussion and argumentation would have taken place. Presumably Stephen requested an opportunity to read from the Jewish Scriptures and then explain and apply it. In doing so he would have interpreted the Scriptures in a Christocentric manner, just like Jesus taught his disciples (Luke 24:27, Luke 24:44–48). Those present would then have responded to his claims with questions and comments. It is likely that their debates with Stephen took place over a period of time.1
9 Then some of those who belonged to the synagogue of the Freedmen (as it was called), and of the Cyrenians, and of the Alexandrians, and of those from Cilicia and Asia, rose up and disputed with Stephen.