Topical Bible: Blasphemy: False Indictments For: Stephen

◄ Blasphemy: False Indictments For: Stephen ►

Topical Encyclopedia

Stephen, one of the first deacons of the early Christian church, is a prominent figure in the New Testament, particularly in the Book of Acts. He is known for his strong faith, wisdom, and the power of the Holy Spirit working through him. However, his ministry and bold proclamation of the Gospel led to false accusations of blasphemy, ultimately resulting in his martyrdom.

Background and Ministry

Stephen was chosen as one of the seven deacons to serve the early church in Jerusalem, as described in Acts 6:5. He was "a man full of faith and of the Holy Spirit" (Acts 6:5). His role was to assist in the distribution of food and resources to the widows, allowing the apostles to focus on prayer and the ministry of the word. Stephen's ministry, however, extended beyond these duties, as he performed "great wonders and signs among the people" (Acts 6:8).

False Accusations

Stephen's powerful ministry and his ability to perform miracles attracted the attention of certain members of the Jewish community, particularly those from the Synagogue of the Freedmen. Unable to counter his wisdom and the Spirit by which he spoke, they resorted to deceit. Acts 6:11-14 records their actions: "Then they prompted some men to say, 'We have heard Stephen speak words of blasphemy against Moses and against God.' So they stirred up the people and elders and scribes. They seized Stephen and brought him before the Sanhedrin. They presented false witnesses who said, 'This man never stops speaking against this holy place and against the law. For we have heard him say that this Jesus of Nazareth will destroy this place and change the customs that Moses handed down to us.'"

These accusations were serious, as blasphemy against God and Moses was considered a grave offense under Jewish law. The charges were designed to incite the religious leaders and the people against Stephen, portraying him as a threat to their religious traditions and the sanctity of the temple.

Stephen's Defense and Martyrdom

In response to the accusations, Stephen delivered a powerful speech before the Sanhedrin, as recorded in Acts 7. He recounted the history of Israel, highlighting their repeated rejection of God's messengers and culminating in their betrayal and murder of the Righteous One, Jesus Christ. Stephen's speech was not only a defense of his faith but also a prophetic indictment of the religious leaders' failure to recognize God's work through Jesus.

Stephen's words enraged the Sanhedrin, and they condemned him to death by stoning. As he was being stoned, Stephen, full of the Holy Spirit, gazed into heaven and saw the glory of God and Jesus standing at the right hand of God. He prayed for his persecutors, saying, "Lord, do not hold this sin against them" (Acts 7:60), echoing the forgiveness of Christ on the cross.

Significance

Stephen's martyrdom marked a pivotal moment in the early church, as it led to a great persecution that scattered the believers, spreading the Gospel beyond Jerusalem. His steadfast faith in the face of false accusations and his willingness to forgive his executioners serve as a powerful testimony to the transformative power of the Holy Spirit and the truth of the Gospel.