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.

Study Bible

And falling on his knees
This phrase captures the physical posture of Stephen, the first Christian martyr, as he faces his imminent death. The act of falling on one's knees is a gesture of humility, submission, and earnest prayer. In the Greek, the word for "falling" (πίπτω, piptō) conveys a sudden or deliberate action, indicating Stephen's conscious choice to submit to God's will even in the face of death. Kneeling is a posture often associated with prayer and supplication throughout Scripture, symbolizing reverence and dependence on God. Historically, this act of kneeling in prayer has been a powerful testament to faith, as seen in various biblical accounts where individuals seek divine intervention or express deep devotion.

he cried out in a loud voice
Stephen's loud cry signifies the urgency and intensity of his prayer. The Greek word for "cried out" (κράζω, krazō) is often used in the New Testament to denote a strong, emotional outburst. This is not a quiet, private prayer but a public declaration of faith and forgiveness. The "loud voice" underscores the boldness and clarity with which Stephen communicates his final words, ensuring that all present hear his message. This mirrors the prophetic tradition in the Old Testament, where prophets often spoke loudly to convey God's message to the people.

Lord
The term "Lord" (Κύριε, Kyrie) is a title of respect and authority, acknowledging Jesus Christ's divine sovereignty. In the context of Acts, Stephen's use of "Lord" directly addresses Jesus, affirming His deity and role as the mediator between God and humanity. This invocation of Jesus as "Lord" is significant, as it reflects the early Christian understanding of Jesus' divine status and His authority to forgive sins and receive the spirit of the faithful.

do not hold this sin against them
This plea for forgiveness echoes Jesus' own words on the cross, "Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing" (Luke 23:34, BSB). The Greek word for "hold" (στήκω, stēkō) implies a legal or accounting term, suggesting that Stephen is asking God not to count this sin against his persecutors. This act of forgiveness is a profound demonstration of Christian love and grace, embodying the teachings of Jesus to love one's enemies and pray for those who persecute you (Matthew 5:44). Historically, this moment has been seen as a powerful witness to the transformative power of the Gospel, as Stephen's prayer for his executioners exemplifies the radical forgiveness that Christianity offers.

And after he had said this
This phrase marks the conclusion of Stephen's final words. The Greek construction here indicates a sense of completion, as if Stephen's mission and testimony are now fulfilled. His speech and prayer serve as a capstone to his life and ministry, leaving a lasting impact on those who witnessed his martyrdom.

he fell asleep
The euphemism "fell asleep" (κοιμάομαι, koimaomai) is a common biblical metaphor for death, particularly in the New Testament. It reflects the Christian hope in the resurrection, suggesting that death is not the end but a temporary state before awakening to eternal life. This term conveys a sense of peace and rest, contrasting with the violent nature of Stephen's death. The use of "fell asleep" underscores the early Christian belief in the resurrection of the dead and the assurance of eternal life through Jesus Christ. Historically, this phrase has provided comfort to believers, affirming that death is not to be feared but is a transition to a promised future with God.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Stephen
The first Christian martyr, a deacon in the early church known for his faith and filled with the Holy Spirit. His speech before the Sanhedrin is a powerful testimony of faith.

2. Sanhedrin
The Jewish council that condemned Stephen. They were the religious leaders who felt threatened by the spread of Christianity.

3. Jerusalem
The city where Stephen was martyred, a central location for early Christian activity and the site of significant biblical events.

4. Stoning of Stephen
A pivotal event in the early church, marking the first martyrdom and leading to the spread of the Gospel beyond Jerusalem.

5. Saul (later Paul)
Present at Stephen's stoning, he later becomes a key figure in the spread of Christianity after his conversion.

Teaching Points

Forgiveness in Persecution
Stephen's prayer for his persecutors exemplifies the Christian call to forgive, even in the most extreme circumstances. This challenges believers to examine their own capacity for forgiveness.

Christ-like Love
Stephen's actions mirror those of Christ, demonstrating that true discipleship involves emulating Jesus' love and compassion, even towards enemies.

The Power of Witness
Stephen's martyrdom serves as a powerful witness to the truth of the Gospel. Believers are encouraged to stand firm in their faith, knowing that their testimony can have a profound impact.

God's Sovereignty in Suffering
The spread of the Gospel following Stephen's death illustrates how God can use suffering and persecution to accomplish His purposes.

Prayer as a Response
Stephen's final act of prayer underscores the importance of prayer as a response to adversity, encouraging believers to seek God's strength and guidance in difficult times.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Stephen's prayer in Acts 7:60 reflect the teachings of Jesus on forgiveness and love for enemies?

2. In what ways can Stephen's example of forgiveness and faithfulness inspire us in our own lives today?

3. How does the account of Stephen's martyrdom challenge us to respond to persecution or opposition in our own faith journey?

4. What can we learn from the connection between Stephen's prayer and Saul's conversion about the impact of faithful witness?

5. How can we apply the principle of praying for those who wrong us in our daily interactions and relationships?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Luke 23:34
Jesus' prayer for forgiveness for those who crucified Him parallels Stephen's prayer, highlighting the theme of forgiveness even in the face of persecution.

Matthew 5:44
Jesus' teaching to love and pray for one's enemies is exemplified in Stephen's final words.

Acts 9:1-19
Saul's conversion is a direct result of the events following Stephen's martyrdom, showing how God can use persecution to further His purposes.

Romans 12:14-21
Paul's later teachings on blessing those who persecute you reflect the spirit of Stephen's prayer.