Topical Encyclopedia Stephen stands as a prominent figure in the early Christian church, known for his unwavering faith and the power with which he proclaimed the gospel. His account is primarily found in the Book of Acts, where he emerges as a man full of faith and the Holy Spirit, chosen as one of the first deacons to serve the burgeoning Christian community in Jerusalem.Selection as a Deacon Stephen's journey begins in Acts 6, where the apostles, overwhelmed by the needs of the growing church, decide to appoint seven men to oversee the daily distribution to the widows. The criteria for selection were clear: men of good repute, full of the Spirit and wisdom. Stephen is described as "a man full of faith and of the Holy Spirit" (Acts 6:5), highlighting his spiritual maturity and dedication to the faith. Faith and Miraculous Works Stephen's faith was not only evident in his character but also in the miraculous works he performed. Acts 6:8 states, "Now Stephen, full of grace and power, was performing great wonders and signs among the people" . His ability to perform miracles was a testament to the power of the Holy Spirit working through him, affirming the truth of the gospel he preached. Boldness in Proclamation Stephen's faith was further demonstrated in his bold proclamation of the gospel, even in the face of fierce opposition. As disputes arose with members of the Synagogue of the Freedmen, Stephen's wisdom and the Spirit with which he spoke were undeniable. Acts 6:10 records, "But they could not stand up to his wisdom or the Spirit by whom he spoke" . His deep understanding of Scripture and his ability to articulate the message of Christ with clarity and conviction were evident to all who heard him. Defense Before the Sanhedrin Stephen's faith and power reached their zenith during his defense before the Sanhedrin, as recorded in Acts 7. In a lengthy discourse, Stephen recounts the history of Israel, emphasizing God's faithfulness and the consistent rebellion of His people. His speech culminates in a bold accusation against the religious leaders, charging them with resisting the Holy Spirit and betraying and murdering the Righteous One, Jesus Christ (Acts 7:51-52). Martyrdom Stephen's unwavering faith ultimately led to his martyrdom, making him the first Christian martyr. As he was being stoned, Stephen's faith shone brightly. Acts 7:55-56 describes, "But Stephen, full of the Holy Spirit, looked up to heaven and saw the glory of God, and Jesus standing at the right hand of God. 'Look,' he said, 'I see heaven open and the Son of Man standing at the right hand of God'" . His vision of Christ standing, rather than sitting, at the right hand of God is often interpreted as a sign of Christ's advocacy and approval of Stephen's testimony. In his final moments, Stephen's faith mirrored that of his Savior. He prayed for his persecutors, saying, "Lord, do not hold this sin against them" (Acts 7:60), echoing Jesus' own words on the cross. His faith and power, demonstrated through his life, ministry, and martyrdom, left an indelible mark on the early church and continue to inspire believers today. Nave's Topical Index Acts 6:5,8-10And the saying pleased the whole multitude: and they chose Stephen, a man full of faith and of the Holy Ghost, and Philip, and Prochorus, and Nicanor, and Timon, and Parmenas, and Nicolas a proselyte of Antioch: Nave's Topical Index Library St. Stephen's Day and Stephen, Full of Faith and Power, did Great ... The Institution of Deacons, and the History of Stephen. Stephen the First Christian Martyr Filled with the Spirit Stephen's vision The Holy Catholic Church. The Martyrdom of Stephen. The Faith of Moses. The Story of Stephen, the First Martyr Acts vi. 8 Resources Was the Apostle Paul actually a false prophet? | GotQuestions.orgWho was Prochorus in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Since God withholds forgiveness, can we? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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