Topical Encyclopedia Stephen, one of the seven deacons chosen by the early church in Jerusalem, is a prominent figure in the New Testament, particularly noted for his defense of the Christian faith before the Sanhedrin. His defense is recorded in Acts 6:8–7:60, where he stands as the first Christian martyr, offering a profound testimony to the truth of the Gospel and the continuity of God's work through history.Background and Context Stephen, described as "a man full of faith and of the Holy Spirit" (Acts 6:5), was appointed to serve the Hellenistic Jewish Christians in Jerusalem. His ministry was marked by "great wonders and signs among the people" (Acts 6:8), which drew the attention and opposition of certain members of the Synagogue of the Freedmen. Unable to counter his wisdom and the Spirit by which he spoke, they falsely accused him of blasphemy against Moses and God, leading to his arrest and trial before the Sanhedrin. The Defense Stephen's defense is a masterful recounting of Israel's history, emphasizing God's faithfulness and the persistent rebellion of His people. He begins with the call of Abraham, highlighting God's covenant and promises (Acts 7:2-8). He then recounts the accounts of Joseph and Moses, illustrating how God delivered His people despite their initial rejection of His chosen leaders (Acts 7:9-36). Stephen underscores the Israelites' repeated disobedience, particularly during the wilderness period, when they turned to idolatry (Acts 7:39-43). He reminds the Sanhedrin of the construction of the tabernacle and the temple, emphasizing that "the Most High does not dwell in houses made by human hands" (Acts 7:48), quoting the prophet Isaiah to affirm that God transcends physical structures (Acts 7:49-50). Accusation and Vision In a bold conclusion, Stephen accuses the Sanhedrin of resisting the Holy Spirit, just as their ancestors did, and of betraying and murdering the Righteous One, Jesus Christ (Acts 7:51-53). His words cut to the heart of the council, provoking their anger. As they prepared to stone him, Stephen, "full of the Holy Spirit," gazed into heaven and declared, "Look, I see heaven open and the Son of Man standing at the right hand of God" (Acts 7:55-56). Martyrdom Stephen's vision and testimony further enraged the Sanhedrin, leading them to drag him out of the city and stone him. As he was being stoned, Stephen called upon the Lord, saying, "Lord Jesus, receive my spirit" (Acts 7:59). In his final moments, he echoed the forgiveness of Christ, praying, "Lord, do not hold this sin against them" (Acts 7:60). His death marked the beginning of a great persecution against the church, yet his defense and martyrdom left an indelible impact on the early Christian community and the spread of the Gospel. Stephen's defense serves as a powerful testament to the continuity of God's redemptive plan through history and the fulfillment of His promises in Jesus Christ. His unwavering faith and bold proclamation of truth, even unto death, exemplify the call to witness for Christ in the face of opposition. Nave's Topical Index Acts 7:1Then said the high priest, Are these things so? Nave's Topical Index Library The Acts of the Apostles The First Christian Martyr It is the Final Court of Appeal. His Conversion Acts XXII The Gospel in Samaria Lii. Concerning Hypocrisy, Worldly Anxiety, Watchfulness, and his ... Acts VII From the Ascension to the Church at Antioch. Standard Expositions of the Roman Catholic System. Resources Who was Stephen in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgThe stoning of Stephen - Why were the Jews allowed to stone Stephen but had to go through Pilate to kill Jesus? | GotQuestions.org Christian martyrdom - what does the Bible say? Should Christians desire to become martyrs? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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