How does Stephen's vision in Acts 7:55 inspire your faith today? Setting the Scene Acts 7:55: “But Stephen, full of the Holy Spirit, looked intently to heaven and saw the glory of God, and Jesus standing at the right hand of God.” Heaven Is Real and Open • Stephen “looked intently to heaven.” • Scripture treats heaven as an actual place where God dwells (Isaiah 66:1; Revelation 4:1-2). • His open-eyed glimpse assures us that the invisible realm is just as literal as the ground beneath our feet. Jesus Is Alive and Reigning • Stephen sees “Jesus standing at the right hand of God.” • Mark 16:19; Romans 8:34; Hebrews 10:12 all underline this same exalted position. • Because the risen Lord truly reigns, every promise He made still stands (2 Corinthians 1:20). Jesus Stands for His People • Normally Scripture pictures Jesus seated; here He stands. • The posture underscores His active advocacy (1 John 2:1) and readiness to receive Stephen. • When hostility rises, remember: the Son of God personally stands up for you. The Spirit Fills Ordinary Believers • “Full of the Holy Spirit” highlights the normal Christian life empowered by God Himself (Ephesians 5:18). • Bold witness flows from spiritual fullness, not personal charisma (Acts 4:31). Glory Outshines Opposition • Stephen’s accusers are enraged, yet he sees “the glory of God.” • Present suffering can coexist with, and even amplify, an awareness of divine glory (2 Corinthians 4:17-18). • The brighter the glory, the smaller the threats appear. Vindication Is Certain • Earthly courts condemn; heaven’s court vindicates. • Jesus’ visible approval promises ultimate reversal for every faithful believer (Matthew 25:21; Revelation 3:21). Fuel for Today’s Faith – Look up before looking around. – Expect Christ’s active advocacy in everyday struggles. – Seek Spirit-fullness for courage and clarity. – Measure trials against God’s glory, not against your strength. – Rest in the certainty of final vindication. Living the Vision 1. Begin each day acknowledging Jesus at the Father’s right hand (Hebrews 12:2). 2. Invite the Holy Spirit’s filling so your words mirror Stephen’s bold clarity (Luke 12:11-12). 3. When criticized for your faith, picture Christ standing for you, not seated, but engaged. 4. Let the reality of an open heaven shape choices, priorities, and hope (Colossians 3:1-4). |
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