How does Stephen's example connect to Jesus' teachings on persecution? Verse in Focus “All who were sitting in the Sanhedrin looked intently at Stephen, and they saw that his face was like the face of an angel.” – Acts 6:15 Stephen’s Radiant Face and Divine Approval • The description is literal: God visibly marked Stephen, echoing Moses’ shining face after meeting the LORD (Exodus 34:29–35). • The glow signals divine presence and favor in the very moment his life is threatened. • Persecution does not mean abandonment; it can be the stage on which God’s glory is most clearly displayed. Jesus Prepared His Disciples for Persecution • Matthew 5:10-12 – “Blessed are those who are persecuted… Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven.” • Luke 6:22-23 – “Blessed are you when people hate you… leap for joy.” • John 15:18-20 – “If the world hates you, understand that it hated Me first.” • Matthew 10:17-20 – “They will hand you over… but it will not be you speaking, but the Spirit of your Father speaking through you.” Key truth: persecution is expected, but so is divine empowerment and heavenly reward. Stephen Embodies Jesus’ Teaching • Joy amid hostility – Stephen stands calm, radiant, even joyful, living out Matthew 5:12’s “Rejoice.” • Spirit-filled witness – Acts 6:10 notes his opponents “could not stand up against the wisdom the Spirit gave him,” fulfilling Matthew 10:20. • Loving his enemies – While dying he cries, “Lord, do not hold this sin against them” (Acts 7:60), mirroring Jesus’ “Father, forgive them” (Luke 23:34) and practicing Matthew 5:44. • Assurance of reward – As stones fly, Stephen sees “Jesus standing at the right hand of God” (Acts 7:56), a personal confirmation of the heavenly reward promised in Matthew 5:12. • Suffering without surprise – Everything unfolding matches Jesus’ warnings in John 15, proving the reliability of His words. Encouragement for Us Today • Expect opposition when living and speaking truthfully for Christ; it is a mark of genuine discipleship. • Trust the Holy Spirit to supply wisdom, courage, and even visible evidence of God’s presence if He chooses. • Respond to hostility with forgiveness and love, confident that God sees and rewards faithfulness. • Remember: the same Lord who stood for Stephen stands for every believer who endures persecution for His name. |
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