Topical Encyclopedia Stephen, one of the first deacons of the early Christian church, is a significant figure in the New Testament, particularly in the Book of Acts. His account is a poignant example of faithfulness in the face of persecution and the transformative power of forgiveness.Background and Ministry Stephen was a man "full of faith and of the Holy Spirit" (Acts 6:5). He was chosen as one of the seven deacons to assist the apostles by overseeing the distribution of food and aid to the widows in the early church. His role was not limited to administrative duties; Stephen was also a powerful preacher and performed "great wonders and signs among the people" (Acts 6:8). Conflict and Accusation Stephen's ministry and wisdom, however, attracted opposition. Members of the Synagogue of the Freedmen, along with others, began to dispute with him. Unable to counter his wisdom and the Spirit by which he spoke, they resorted to deceit. They "secretly persuaded some men to say, 'We have heard Stephen speak blasphemous words against Moses and against God'" (Acts 6:11). This led to Stephen being seized and brought before the Sanhedrin, the Jewish ruling council. Stephen's Defense Before the Sanhedrin, Stephen delivered a powerful speech, recounting the history of Israel and highlighting their repeated resistance to God's messengers. He accused the Jewish leaders of betraying and murdering the Righteous One, Jesus Christ, whom they had been waiting for. His words were a direct challenge to the religious authorities, exposing their hypocrisy and hard-heartedness. Martyrdom Stephen's bold proclamation of truth incited the fury of the Sanhedrin. "When they heard this, they were furious and gnashed their teeth at him" (Acts 7:54). Filled with the Holy Spirit, Stephen gazed into heaven and saw the glory of God, with Jesus standing at the right hand of God. He declared this vision to his accusers, which only intensified their rage. They dragged him out of the city and stoned him to death. Forgiveness and Legacy In his final moments, Stephen demonstrated Christ-like forgiveness. As the stones rained down upon him, he prayed, "Lord Jesus, receive my spirit." Then, falling on his knees, he cried out, "Lord, do not hold this sin against them" (Acts 7:59-60). His prayer echoed the words of Jesus on the cross, exemplifying the ultimate act of love and forgiveness towards his enemies. Stephen's martyrdom marked a pivotal moment in the early church. His death sparked a great persecution against the church in Jerusalem, leading to the scattering of believers and the spread of the Gospel beyond the confines of the city. Among those who witnessed and approved of his execution was Saul, later known as the Apostle Paul, whose conversion would become a testament to the power of God's grace and forgiveness. Stephen's life and death serve as a powerful reminder of the cost of discipleship and the call to love and forgive even those who persecute us. His unwavering faith and forgiveness in the face of death continue to inspire believers to stand firm in their faith and extend grace to their enemies. Nave's Topical Index Acts 7:60And he kneeled down, and cried with a loud voice, Lord, lay not this sin to their charge. And when he had said this, he fell asleep. Nave's Topical Index Library His Conversion Treatise ix. On the Advantage of Patience. The Sleeper. The Conversion of Paul. Assurance of Salvation. At the Jordan The Unmerciful Servant. St. Paul's Wish to be Accursed from Christ. The Disputes of the Faithful to be Settled by the Decisions of the ... Paul in the Temple Resources Who is Satan in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the helmet of salvation (Ephesians 6:17)? | GotQuestions.org What is the definition of enmity? | GotQuestions.org Enemy: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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