Topical Encyclopedia Stephen, a prominent figure in the early Christian church, is best known for his unwavering confession of Christ, which ultimately led to his martyrdom. His account is primarily found in the Book of Acts, chapters 6 and 7, where he emerges as a man "full of faith and of the Holy Spirit" (Acts 6:5).Background and Selection as a Deacon Stephen was one of the seven men chosen by the apostles to serve as deacons in the early church. The selection was made to address the needs of the Hellenistic Jewish widows who were being overlooked in the daily distribution of food. The apostles instructed the disciples to choose "seven men from among you who are known to be full of the Spirit and wisdom" (Acts 6:3). Stephen's selection highlights his reputation for spiritual maturity and wisdom. Ministry and Miracles Stephen's ministry was marked by great wonders and signs among the people. Acts 6:8 states, "Now Stephen, full of grace and power, was performing great wonders and signs among the people" . His ministry was not limited to serving tables; he was actively engaged in preaching and performing miracles, which drew the attention of both the believers and the opposition. Opposition and Arrest Stephen's bold proclamation of the gospel led to opposition from members of the Synagogue of the Freedmen. Unable to counter his wisdom and the Spirit by which he spoke, they resorted to deceit, persuading men to falsely accuse him of blasphemy against Moses and God. This led to Stephen's arrest and his appearance before the Sanhedrin, the Jewish ruling council (Acts 6:9-14). Defense and Vision In his defense before the Sanhedrin, Stephen delivered a powerful speech, recounting the history of Israel and highlighting their repeated resistance to God's messengers. He accused the Jewish leaders of betraying and murdering the Righteous One, Jesus Christ (Acts 7:51-52). His speech was a profound confession of Christ, emphasizing the continuity of God's plan through Jesus. As Stephen concluded his defense, he was granted a divine vision: "But Stephen, full of the Holy Spirit, looked intently into heaven and saw the glory of God, and Jesus standing at the right hand of God" (Acts 7:55). This vision affirmed his faith and provided him with the strength to face his impending death. Martyrdom Stephen's uncompromising confession of Christ incited the fury of the Sanhedrin. They dragged him out of the city and stoned him. As he was being stoned, Stephen prayed, "Lord Jesus, receive my spirit" (Acts 7:59), echoing the words of Christ on the cross. His final words were a prayer of forgiveness for his executioners: "Lord, do not hold this sin against them" (Acts 7:60). Stephen's martyrdom marked him as the first Christian martyr, setting a powerful example of faith and forgiveness. Legacy Stephen's confession and martyrdom had a profound impact on the early church. His death was a catalyst for the spread of the gospel beyond Jerusalem, as believers were scattered and preached the word wherever they went (Acts 8:1-4). His account continues to inspire Christians to boldly confess Christ, even in the face of persecution. Stephen's life and death exemplify the call to witness for Christ with courage and grace, trusting in the promise of eternal life. Torrey's Topical Textbook Acts 7:52,59Which of the prophets have not your fathers persecuted? and they have slain them which showed before of the coming of the Just One; of whom you have been now the betrayers and murderers: Torrey's Topical Textbook Library The Progress of the Gospel from the Death of Christ to the Death ... The Prayer of Stephen. From Persecutor to Disciple Power "In" and "Upon. " Proofs that the Union was Without Confusion. Doctrine of the Rest of the Apostles. Letter Xlvii. --To the Church of Alexandria on the Same Occasion. Twenty Third Sunday after Trinity Enemies of the Cross of Christ ... John Chapter xvi. 8-11. The Power of Christ Illustrated by the Resurrection Resources What is the proper way to handle sin in my life? | GotQuestions.orgWhy is daily prayer important? | GotQuestions.org Do I have to confess my adultery to my spouse? | GotQuestions.org Confessing: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Confessing Christ: A Test of Being Saints Confessing Christ: An Evidence of Union With God Confessing Christ: Church in Pergamos Confessing Christ: Consequences of Not Confessing Christ: Ensures his Confessing Us Confessing Christ: Influences of the Holy Spirit Necessary To Confessing Christ: Man Born Blind Confessing Christ: Must be Connected With Faith Confessing Christ: Necessary to Salvation Confessing Christ: Persecution should not Prevent Us From Confessing Christ: Peter and John Confessing Christ: The Fear of Man Prevents Related Terms |
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