How can we stand firm in faith when falsely accused, like Stephen? Stephen’s Reality Check: Acts 6:12 in Focus “So they stirred up the people and elders and scribes. They seized Stephen and brought him before the Sanhedrin.” The accusation was public, calculated, and malicious. Stephen had done nothing wrong; his bold proclamation of Christ simply exposed hardened hearts. We should not be surprised when truth invites opposition (2 Timothy 3:12). --- Where Stephen Drew His Strength Filled with the Word, Filled with the Spirit (Acts 6:10; 7:55) • Immersed in Scripture – Stephen’s defense in Acts 7 weaves Genesis through the Prophets; he knew the Word by heart. • Reliant on the Spirit – “They could not stand up against the wisdom and the Spirit with which he spoke.” (Acts 6:10) • Eyes fixed on Jesus – “I see heaven open and the Son of Man standing at the right hand of God.” (Acts 7:56) • Clear conscience – No need to fabricate or manipulate—truth stood tall without embellishment. --- Standing Firm When Falsely Accused: Practical Steps 1. Anchor in Scripture • Daily reading and memorization fortify the mind (Psalm 119:11). 2. Depend on the Holy Spirit • He supplies real-time wisdom and composure (Luke 21:15). 3. Keep a blameless walk • Integrity disarms slander (1 Peter 3:16). 4. Fix your gaze upward • Worship shifts focus from earthly courts to heaven’s throne (Colossians 3:1-2). 5. Respond with grace, not retaliation • “When they heaped abuse on Him, He did not retaliate…” (1 Peter 2:23). 6. Wear the full armor of God • Especially the belt of truth and shield of faith (Ephesians 6:13-17). 7. Trust God for vindication • “He will bring forth your righteousness like the dawn.” (Psalm 37:5-6). --- Scriptures That Steady the Heart • Isaiah 54:17 — No weapon formed against God’s servants will prevail. • Proverbs 29:25 — Fear of man proves a snare; trust in the LORD brings safety. • Acts 4:13 — Boldness comes from being with Jesus. • Hebrews 12:2-3 — Consider Jesus, who endured hostility, so you will not grow weary. --- Encouragement for Today False accusation may catch us off guard, but it never surprises our Lord. He equips ordinary believers—just like Stephen—to stand firm, speak truth plainly, and reflect Christ’s glory until He brings full and final justice. |
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