How does Stephen's prayer in Acts 7:60 demonstrate Christ-like forgiveness? Setting the Scene Acts 7:60: “Falling on his knees he cried out in a loud voice, ‘Lord, do not hold this sin against them.’ And when he had said this, he fell asleep.” Stephen’s Words, Christ’s Echo • Stephen’s plea mirrors Jesus’ own: “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing.” (Luke 23:34) • Both prayers rise while death is imminent, amplifying the sincerity and self-forgetfulness of the forgiveness offered. • The focus is vertical—addressed to the Lord—affirming that ultimate justice belongs to God, not to the offended sufferer. Parallels to Jesus’ Forgiveness • Same posture of surrender: Jesus “bowed His head and gave up His spirit” (John 19:30); Stephen “fell asleep” after praying. • Same audience: the very people causing their deaths receive intercession rather than condemnation. • Same rationale: ignorance is highlighted—Jesus says “they do not know,” Stephen implies the same by asking God not to charge them. Why This Is Christ-like Forgiveness 1. Intercession instead of retaliation – Romans 12:19: “Vengeance is Mine; I will repay, says the Lord.” 2. Compassion for enemies – Matthew 5:44: “Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you.” 3. Confidence in God’s righteous judgment – 1 Peter 2:23: Jesus “entrusted Himself to Him who judges justly.” Stephen does likewise. 4. Willingness to absorb personal loss – Colossians 3:13: “Bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances you may have against one another.” Stephen models this in extremis. What Christ-like Forgiveness Looks Like Today • A decision rooted in obedience, not emotion—choosing to forgive because Christ commands and exemplifies it. • Prayer that seeks the offender’s reconciliation with God rather than their downfall. • Trust that God will right all wrongs, freeing us from bitterness. • A witness that can soften hardened hearts; Saul stood there (Acts 7:58) and later became Paul, an apostle of grace. Take-Home Insights • True forgiveness is proactive intercession. • It flows from an awareness of our own forgiven status (Ephesians 4:32). • It is possible even in life’s hardest moments because Christ first loved and forgave us (Romans 5:8). |
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