The Choosing of the Seven
(1 Timothy 3:8–13)

1At that time, as the number of the disciples was multiplied, the Hellenists murmured against the Hebrews, because their widows were neglected in the distribution that was made daily. 2the twelve therefore assembled all the disciples, and said, it is not fit that we should leave the word of God, to mind what relates to your meals. 3wherefore, brethren, chuse out of your number seven persons of good reputation, full of the holy spirit and wisdom, who may have the management of this affair: 4whilst we shall continue our applications to prayer, and to preaching. 5this proposition pleased the whole assembly: and they chose Stephen, a man full of faith and of the holy spirit, Philip, Prochorus, Nicanor, Timon, Parmenas, and Nicolas a proselyte of Antioch. 6these they presented to the apostles: who after prayer gave them imposition of hands.

7thus the word of God was spread; and the number of disciples encreased very much at Jerusalem; and a numerous body of priests embrac'd the faith.

The Arrest of Stephen

8Now Stephen full of grace and power, did great wonders and miracles among the people. 9when some out of the several synagogues, belonging to the freed men, to the Cyrenians, Alexandrians, and to those of Cilicia, and of Asia, came to dispute with Stephen. 10but as they were not able to withstand the force of that sublime knowledge which appeared in his discourse, 11they suborned men, who said, we have heard him speak irreverently of Moses, and of God. 12and they stirred up the people, the senators, and the doctors of law, who came and seiz'd him, and brought him to the council, 13where they produc'd false witnesses, who said, this man is continually inveighing against the holy place, and against the law. 14for we have heard him say, that Jesus the Nazarene shall destroy this place, and change the customs which Moses delivered us. 15and all that sat in the council, looking stedfastly on him, saw an air of majesty in his aspect.