How can we apply Stephen's boldness in witnessing to our own faith sharing? Stephen’s Opening Example “Brothers and fathers, listen to me!” (Acts 7:2) • Respectful address—he honors their position while calling for attention. • Immediate focus on God—“The God of glory appeared…” ensures the spotlight is on the Lord, not himself. • Scriptural grounding—he starts with Abraham, anchoring his witness in shared, authoritative history. Why His Boldness Matters • Obedience to Acts 1:8: “You will receive power… and you will be My witnesses.” • Confidence in truth—Psalm 119:160: “The entirety of Your word is truth.” • Fullness of the Spirit—Acts 6:5 describes Stephen as “full of faith and the Holy Spirit,” the source of courage. Lessons on Bold Witnessing 1. Honor people, fear God. – Proverbs 29:25: “The fear of man is a snare, but whoever trusts in the LORD is set securely on high.” 2. Begin with common ground. – Paul models this in Acts 17:22-23, finding a bridge before presenting Christ. 3. Keep the narrative biblical. – 2 Timothy 3:16 reminds us Scripture is “God-breathed,” sufficient to convict and instruct. 4. Speak the whole truth, even the hard parts. – Acts 7:51 shows Stephen confronting sin; Galatians 4:16 reminds us that truth sometimes feels like enmity. 5. Trust outcomes to God. – 1 Corinthians 3:6: “I planted, Apollos watered, but God caused the growth.” Practical Steps for Today • Pray daily for Spirit-filled courage (Ephesians 6:19). • Memorize key salvation passages (Romans 3:23; 6:23; 10:9-10). • Practice respectful openings: “Friend, may I share something that changed my life?” • Use testimonies tied to Scripture—Revelation 12:11 points to victory by “the word of their testimony.” • Anticipate opposition yet respond with grace (Colossians 4:6). Encouraging Promises • 2 Timothy 1:7: “For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and self-control.” • Isaiah 55:11: God’s word “will not return to Me empty.” • Matthew 10:19-20: The Spirit will give the words when needed. A Final Charge Stephen’s lone voice before hostile leaders echoes today whenever believers, filled with the Spirit, open their mouths for Christ. Step into conversations with the same confidence: Scripture is true, God is glorious, and the Spirit empowers—so speak up and watch God work. |
    |