Topical Bible: Intercessory Prayer: Stephen

Bible > Topical > Intercessory Prayer

◄ Intercessory Prayer: Stephen ►

Jump to: Torrey's • Library • Subtopics • Terms

Topical Encyclopedia

Introduction

Intercessory prayer is a profound aspect of Christian spirituality, where believers pray on behalf of others, seeking divine intervention, guidance, or mercy. One of the most compelling examples of intercessory prayer in the New Testament is found in the account of Stephen, the first Christian martyr. His prayer, uttered at the moment of his death, reflects a Christ-like love and forgiveness that has inspired generations of believers.

Stephen's Role in the Early Church

Stephen was one of the seven deacons chosen by the early church to assist the apostles by overseeing the distribution of food and aid to the widows and needy (Acts 6:1-6). Described as "a man full of faith and of the Holy Spirit" (Acts 6:5), Stephen was also known for performing "great wonders and signs among the people" (Acts 6:8). His wisdom and spirit were so compelling that his opponents could not stand against him (Acts 6:10).

The Accusation and Trial

Stephen's powerful ministry and bold proclamation of the gospel led to opposition from certain members of the synagogue. They accused him of blasphemy against Moses and God, claiming he spoke against the holy place and the law (Acts 6:11-14). Brought before the Sanhedrin, Stephen delivered a profound speech, recounting Israel's history and pointing to Jesus as the Righteous One whom they had betrayed and murdered (Acts 7:1-53).

Stephen's Vision and Martyrdom

As Stephen concluded his defense, he was granted a vision of heaven, where he saw "the glory of God, and Jesus standing at the right hand of God" (Acts 7:55). Declaring this vision to the Sanhedrin only incited further rage, and they dragged him out of the city to stone him (Acts 7:56-58).

Intercessory Prayer in Action

In the midst of this brutal execution, Stephen's response was one of profound intercession. As the stones rained down upon him, he called out, "Lord Jesus, receive my spirit" (Acts 7:59). Then, echoing the words of Christ on the cross, Stephen fell to his knees and cried out with a loud voice, "Lord, do not hold this sin against them" (Acts 7:60). This prayer of forgiveness and intercession for his persecutors is a powerful testament to the transformative love of Christ at work within him.

Theological Significance

Stephen's intercessory prayer is significant for several reasons. Firstly, it exemplifies the Christian call to love one's enemies and pray for those who persecute (Matthew 5:44). Stephen's prayer reflects a heart transformed by the Holy Spirit, capable of extending grace and forgiveness even in the face of death.

Secondly, Stephen's prayer serves as a model for believers, demonstrating that intercession is not limited to times of peace and safety but is a vital expression of faith even in the most challenging circumstances. His prayer aligns with the teachings of Jesus, who interceded for His executioners, saying, "Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing" (Luke 23:34).

Lastly, Stephen's intercession may have had a profound impact on those who witnessed his martyrdom, including Saul of Tarsus, who later became the Apostle Paul. Saul was present at Stephen's stoning, and Stephen's prayerful witness may have planted seeds that contributed to Saul's eventual conversion (Acts 7:58, 8:1).

Conclusion

Stephen's intercessory prayer stands as a powerful example of Christian love and forgiveness. His willingness to pray for his persecutors, even as he faced death, reflects the heart of the gospel and the transformative power of Christ's love. Through Stephen's example, believers are encouraged to embrace intercessory prayer as a vital expression of faith, trusting in God's ability to work through their prayers for the redemption and reconciliation of others.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Acts 7:60
And he kneeled down, and cried with a loud voice, Lord, lay not this sin to their charge. And when he had said this, he fell asleep.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Library

Intercessory Prayer
... Moses, and never one more intensely earnest in intercessory prayer. ... one long shower,
each drop a prayer, and the ... the top of the house, and Stephen amidst the ...
/.../spurgeon/spurgeons sermons volume 7 1861/intercessory prayer.htm

Paul and his Praying (Continued)
... "And when the blood of thy martyr Stephen was shed, I also was ... As he urged intercessory
prayer on others, so he interceded himself for others beside himself. ...
/.../bounds/prayer and praying men/xiv paul and his praying.htm

Philip, the Evangelist
... by the outbreak of persecution following on the death of Stephen, we find ... and in
the same spirit He prayed for them in His great intercessory prayer: "As Thou ...
/.../milligan/men of the bible some lesser-known/philip the evangelist.htm

The First Cry from the Cross
... have since that day offered the same prayer, even as Stephen cried, "Lay ... I remarked
before, if our Saviour might have paused from intercessory prayer, it was ...
/.../spurgeon/spurgeons sermons volume 15 1869/the first cry from the.htm

Index of Subjects. Abel, 124, 136, 193, 414.
... Intercession of the Holy Ghost, [873]359. Intercessory prayers, [874]429. Isaac,
[875]403. ... Lord's Prayer, the, [1006]428; and Pelagianism, [1007]527 seq. ...
/.../augustine/anti-pelagian writings/index of subjects abel 124.htm

Doctrine and Discipline of the Church
... transubstantiate" is used first by Stephen, Bishop of ... The great increase in the whole
intercessory machinery of ... people, together with the Lord's Prayer and the ...
/.../medley/the church and the empire/chapter xi doctrine and discipline.htm