Stephen's Bold Witness: A Retelling of Israel's History and His Martyrdom

Acts 7 showcases Stephen's boldness in proclaiming God's truth, despite knowing it could lead to his death. It serves as a stark reminder of the cost of discipleship. Stephen's steadfast faith, his vision of Jesus in his final moments, and his Christlike forgiveness towards his killers combine to form a deeply moving testimony of unwavering commitment to the Gospel.

Verses 1-53: Stephen's Defense and Accusations Against the Religious Leaders

Asked if the charges against him are true, Stephen launches into an eloquent and thorough recounting of Israel's history. He begins with God's call to Abraham, covers Joseph's rise to power in Egypt, and emphasizes Moses' leadership during the exodus and the giving of the Law at Mount Sinai. He also speaks of David and Solomon and the building of the temple. Stephen then accuses his accusers of being stiff-necked and resistant to the Holy Spirit, just like their ancestors. He charges them with betraying and murdering the Righteous One, Jesus Christ.

Verses 54-60: Stephen's Vision and Death

When the council members hear these accusations, they are enraged. However, filled with the Holy Spirit, Stephen looks up to heaven, sees the glory of God and Jesus standing at God's right hand, and shares this vision with the council. They drag him out of the city and begin to stone him. As he dies, Stephen prays for the Lord to receive his spirit and not to hold this sin against his killers. Among the witnesses of this event is Saul, who later becomes the apostle Paul.

Acts 7 features Stephen's impassioned defense before the Sanhedrin, wherein he recounts Israel's history, highlighting God's faithfulness. He charges the religious leaders with hypocrisy, stirring their anger. The climax of the chapter is Stephen's vision of Jesus, his bold proclamation, and his consequent stoning—making him the first Christian martyr.

God's sovereignty and faithfulness throughout history
Courage in the face of persecution
The charge of religious hypocrisy
Martyrdom for the faithStephen's defense and the history of Israel
Accusations against religious leaders
Stephen's vision of Jesus
Stephen's stoning and deathStephen
Abraham
Joseph
Moses
The Sanhedrin
Saul (later known as Paul)Jerusalem
Historical places in Stephen's speech: Mesopotamia, Canaan, Egypt, Mount Sinai

1. How does Stephen's recounting of Israel's history emphasize God's faithfulness and sovereignty?

2. What can we learn from Stephen's courage when facing religious opposition?

3. How does Stephen's speech critique the religious leaders of his time?

4. How does Stephen's vision of Jesus impact your understanding of Jesus' role in the believer's life?

5. Why does Stephen choose to recount the history of Israel as his defense?

6. In what ways does Stephen's martyrdom exemplify his faithfulness to the Gospel?

7. What is the significance of Saul's presence at Stephen's stoning?

8. How does Stephen's prayer as he is being stoned reflect his Christlike character?

9. What parallels and contrasts can you draw between Stephen's death and Jesus' crucifixion?

10. How does Stephen's account of Israel's history tie in with the charges he was facing?

11. How does this chapter challenge your own faith and commitment to Christ?

12. How does Stephen's response to persecution inform your approach to conflict and opposition today?

13. How might Stephen's speech to the religious leaders inform our approach to speaking truth to power?

14. How does Stephen's Christlike plea for forgiveness at his death inspire you in your own relationships?

15. What lessons can you draw from the reactions of the members of the Sanhedrin?

16. How does Stephen model for modern believers the right response when falsely accused?

17. In what ways does Stephen's speech and subsequent death illuminate the cost of following Jesus?

18. How does Stephen's perspective on death offer comfort and hope for believers facing persecution today?

19. How can Stephen's boldness inspire your personal witness?

20. How can you apply the lessons of Stephen's life and death in your day-to-day living and interaction with others?