How does Stephen's response inspire us to stand firm in our beliefs today? Setting the Scene – Acts 7:1: “Then the high priest asked Stephen, ‘Are these charges true?’” – The entire council leans in, expecting a terrified denial. Instead, Stephen launches into the longest recorded speech in Acts, proving every event in Scripture is literal, trustworthy history and pointing to Jesus as the promised Messiah. Stephen’s Immediate Response: Truth over Fear – He does not debate the court’s authority; he answers with God’s authority. – Acts 6:10: “They could not stand up to his wisdom or the Spirit by whom he spoke.” – By choosing faithfulness over self-preservation, Stephen embodies 2 Timothy 1:7: “For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and self-control.” Word-Centered Defense Stephen’s speech (Acts 7:2-53) surveys: • Abraham (vv. 2-8) – showing faith starts with God’s call, not human tradition. • Joseph (vv. 9-16) – highlighting God’s providence in betrayal and suffering. • Moses (vv. 17-44) – revealing Israel’s pattern of resisting God-sent deliverers. • The prophets (vv. 45-50) – confirming the literal fulfillment of God’s promises. By grounding every point in Scripture, Stephen models 1 Peter 3:15: “Always be prepared to give a defense … but respond with gentleness and respect.” Spirit-Empowered Boldness – Acts 7:55-56: “Stephen, full of the Holy Spirit, looked up to heaven and saw … Jesus standing at the right hand of God.” – The same Spirit who inspired Scripture empowers believers to proclaim it. – Luke 12:11-12 foretold this: “Do not worry … the Holy Spirit will teach you at that moment what you should say.” Uncompromising Witness under Fire – Acts 7:51: “You stiff-necked people … you always resist the Holy Spirit.” – Stephen refuses to soften truth to win favor, yet ends with forgiveness (7:59-60). – His martyrdom plants seed in Saul’s heart, proving that steadfast witness changes future generations. How Stephen’s Stand Guides Us Today 1. Know the Story. • Immerse in the literal narrative of Scripture; Stephen’s mastery of the Word gave him unshakable footing. 2. Speak the Truth. • Boldly name sin and present Christ, trusting the Spirit to use clear, uncompromised words. 3. Lean on the Spirit. • Pray for the same filling that let Stephen see heaven while stones flew. 4. Keep the Eternal Perspective. • Hebrews 12:2-3 urges fixing our eyes on Jesus so we “will not grow weary.” 5. Armor Up Daily. • Ephesians 6:13: “Take up the full armor of God … to stand your ground.” 6. Labor with Confidence. • 1 Corinthians 15:58: “Be steadfast, immovable … your labor in the Lord is not in vain.” 7. Forgive Freely. • Stephen’s final words echo Christ’s on the cross, proving forgiveness is the ultimate evidence of gospel confidence. Encouragement for the Battle Ahead – The same resurrected Lord who stood to welcome Stephen stands with every believer who chooses faithfulness over compromise. – Stand firm; the Word is true, the Spirit is present, and eternity is worth it. |
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