How does Stephen's defense in Acts 7:1 challenge us to know Scripture deeply? Acts 7:1—A Small Question, a Vast Answer “Then the high priest asked, ‘Are these charges true?’” His single inquiry invites Stephen to unfold the entire sweep of redemptive history. Stephen’s response is Scripture itself—quoted, summarized, applied—showing that deep, accurate knowledge of God’s Word is indispensable. Stephen’s Scriptural Mastery on Display - Abraham (vv. 2–8) - Joseph (vv. 9–16) - Moses—birth, call, Exodus, wilderness (vv. 17–44) - Joshua, David, and Solomon (vv. 45–50) - Prophetic indictment drawn from Isaiah 66:1–2 (vv. 48–50) Every segment is precision-aligned with the written text. Nothing is vague, approximate, or second-hand. What His Defense Teaches Us About Knowing Scripture • Scripture is the ultimate authority. Stephen leans on the literal, historical accounts, confident of their accuracy (2 Timothy 3:16). • Knowing the storyline matters. He ties the patriarchs, Law, and Prophets into one seamless narrative that points to Christ (Luke 24:27). • Depth produces courage. Because the truth of God’s Word is settled in his heart, Stephen speaks boldly—even when death is the price (Acts 7:54–60). • Scripture interprets the moment. By quoting Isaiah, Stephen shows that present events fulfill timeless truth (Psalm 119:160). Personal Challenges for Us - Cultivate a panoramic grasp of the Bible’s flow—Genesis to Revelation—so we can trace God’s promises as Stephen did. - Commit key passages to memory; they become ready tools in conversation and defense (Psalm 119:11). - Read with Christ at the center, seeing how every part foreshadows or explains Him (John 5:39). - Rely on Scripture when answering objections; our opinions shift, God’s Word stands (Isaiah 40:8). - Let the Word dwell richly, saturating speech, decisions, and worldview (Colossians 3:16). Practical Steps Toward Deeper Knowledge 1. Daily reading plan covering the whole Bible in a year. 2. Inductive study of one book at a time—observe, interpret, apply. 3. Memorize one verse each week; review previous verses on Sundays. 4. Trace biblical themes (covenant, temple, kingdom) through both Testaments. 5. Teach or discuss what you learn; explaining truth reinforces understanding (Philemon 6). 6. Use trustworthy tools—literal translations, concordances, atlases—to ground details. Encouragement to Begin Today “Be diligent to present yourself approved to God, a worker who does not need to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth” (2 Timothy 2:15). Stephen’s example shows what God can do with a believer whose heart and mind are saturated with Scripture. The same Spirit who empowered him stands ready to deepen our knowledge and testimony, starting now. |
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