Topical Encyclopedia Stephen, one of the first deacons of the early Christian church, is a significant figure in the New Testament, particularly in the Book of Acts. He is known for his strong faith, wisdom, and the miraculous signs he performed among the people. However, his ministry and bold proclamation of the Gospel led to opposition and false accusations from certain Jewish leaders.Background Stephen was a man "full of faith and of the Holy Spirit" (Acts 6:5). He was chosen as one of the seven deacons to serve the early church, ensuring that the needs of the Hellenistic widows were met. His role extended beyond service, as he became a powerful preacher and defender of the faith. The Synagogue of the Freedmen Stephen's ministry brought him into conflict with members of the Synagogue of the Freedmen, which included Jews from Cyrene, Alexandria, Cilicia, and Asia. These individuals engaged Stephen in debate but were unable to withstand the wisdom and Spirit by which he spoke (Acts 6:9-10). False Accusations Unable to defeat Stephen through debate, his opponents resorted to deceit. They secretly persuaded men to accuse Stephen of blasphemy against Moses and God. These false witnesses claimed, "We have heard him speak blasphemous words against Moses and against God" (Acts 6:11). This accusation was a serious charge, as blasphemy was punishable by death under Jewish law. The Sanhedrin The false charges led to Stephen being seized and brought before the Sanhedrin, the Jewish ruling council. The accusers further alleged, "This man never stops speaking against this holy place and against the law" (Acts 6:13). They claimed that Stephen declared Jesus of Nazareth would destroy the temple and change the customs handed down by Moses (Acts 6:14). Stephen's Defense In response to these accusations, Stephen delivered a powerful speech before the Sanhedrin, recounting the history of Israel and highlighting their repeated resistance to God's messengers. He emphasized that God's presence was not confined to the temple and that the Jewish leaders were resisting the Holy Spirit, just as their ancestors had done (Acts 7:51). Outcome Stephen's speech, rather than exonerating him, incited the council's fury. Filled with the Holy Spirit, Stephen gazed into heaven and saw the glory of God and Jesus standing at the right hand of God. His vision and proclamation further enraged the council, leading to his martyrdom by stoning (Acts 7:55-58). Stephen's trial and subsequent execution highlight the early church's challenges and the lengths to which opponents of the Gospel would go to suppress its message. Despite the false charges, Stephen's unwavering faith and testimony continue to inspire believers. Nave's Topical Index Acts 6:11-15Then they suborned men, which said, We have heard him speak blasphemous words against Moses, and against God. Nave's Topical Index Library The First Christian Martyr Stephen the First Christian Martyr An Analysis of Augustin's Writings against the Donatists. Chrysostom and Theophilus. His First Deposition and Banishment. The Ecclesiastical History of sozomenus Against the Arians, and Concerning Himself. On the Opinion of Dionysius. Before Caiaphas Gregory vii and Lay Investiture To Pammachius against John of Jerusalem. Resources What should we learn from Christian martyrs? | GotQuestions.orgQuestions about Acts | GotQuestions.org What does the Bible say about stoning? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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