Overview
Stephen, chosen as one of seven men to serve tables in the early church, was "a man full of faith and of the Holy Spirit" (Acts 6:5). Known for performing great wonders and signs among the people, he engaged in debate with members of various synagogues who opposed his message about Jesus. When brought before the council, his face shone like that of an angel as he recounted Israel's history and accused the leaders of resisting the Holy Spirit. Rather than recant, he experienced a vision of the risen Christ and was dragged outside Jerusalem and stoned to death.
Key Scriptures
"And Stephen, full of grace and power, was doing great wonders and signs among the people" (Acts 6:8, ESV). "But he, full of the Holy Spirit, gazed into heaven and saw the glory of God, and Jesus standing at the right hand of God" (Acts 7:55, ESV). "And as they were stoning Stephen, he called out, 'Lord Jesus, receive my spirit'" (Acts 7:59, ESV).
Application
Stephen's willingness to face death rather than deny Christ challenges us to prioritize our witness to the gospel above personal safety and comfort.