In Acts 7:54-60, we witness a powerful moment in the early Christian church. We learn how Stephen was stoned to death for his faith. As the first Christian martyr, Stephen’s stoning marks a pivotal point of both tragedy and profound significance.
While delivering his speech to the Sanhedrin Stephen caused such an uproar that the crowd became a mob. In these verses from Acts, Stephen is stoned to death because of his belief in Christ. How does this relate to modern times? More so than many would imagine.
Stephen prayed for his executioners, even as they hurled stones at him. This shows his ultimate act of faith and forgiveness. In doing so, he set an example for all of us. This passage uncovers;
- the depth of Stephen’s faith,
- the cost of discipleship,
- and the power of making a commitment to Christ.
Let’s look at the Scripture and see how the day unfolds. Let’s read the story of Stephen the Martyr.
Stephen is Stoned to Death in Acts
Now when they heard this, they were cut to the quick, and they began gnashing their teeth at him.
But being full of the Holy Spirit, he gazed intently into heaven and saw the glory of God, and Jesus standing at the right hand of God; and he said, “Behold, I see the heavens opened up and the Son of Man standing at the right hand of God.”
But they cried out with a loud voice, and covered their ears and rushed at him with one impulse.
When they had driven him out of the city, they began stoning him; and the witnesses laid aside their robes at the feet of a young man named Saul.
They went on stoning Stephen as he called on the Lord and said, “Lord Jesus, receive my spirit!”
Then falling on his knees, he cried out with a loud voice, “Lord, do not hold this sin against them!” Having said this, he fell asleep. – Acts 7:54-60 NASB
The Stoning of Stephen and the Persecuted Church
The verses above are short in length, but massive in content. As the story of the New Testament unfolds, we find that Stephen is stoned for one of the reasons Jesus was put to death – blasphemy. In this story, blasphemy refers to the act of speaking against or disrespecting God or religious beliefs.
Stephen’s stoning for blasphemy highlights the intense persecution faced by early Christians. And, it demonstrates the religious authorities’ intolerance towards any challenge to their power.
At the end, Stephen even uttered similar words as Christ (Luke 23:34). He asked forgiveness for those who were killing him. Why? Because he knew they did not realize what they were doing.
Stephen told the truth. But, those who listened did not seek the truth. They only wanted an excuse to carry out their will. Stephen’s final words remind us of the power of forgiveness and mercy in the face of hatred.
How Does The Story of Stephen Relate To Current Times?
In the United States people are criticizing Christians as “narrow minded” because of their beliefs. Misdemeanors such as refusing to obey laws in conflict with Christian beliefs are the most common prosecutions.
In some cases, believers go to jail because they refuse to let the state contradict what the Bible teaches. I never thought I’d see this day come. Specific laws that Christians often refuse to obey include those related to same-sex marriage, abortion, and contraception. These issues often clash with deeply held religious beliefs and moral convictions, leading to clashes between religious freedom and secular laws.
Then, we read about horrendous acts committed against Christians abroad, condoned by our own government.
Pastor Saeed is a good example. Finally released from Iran, he was held in a terrible jail, beaten and tormented because of his faith. This is incredibly saddening and speaks to the lack of religious freedom in many parts of the world. It also serves as a reminder of the need to stand up for religious freedom, both at home and abroad.
Thousands of Christians are being wounded and killed around the globe as we speak. Men, women and children cry out with no hope of escape.
Why am I mentioning this?
Enter – Saul
First, I want to quote Stephen as he breathed his final breath;
“Lord, do not hold this sin against them!”
This is similar to what Jesus said on the cross, isn’t it? You see, Stephen wanted to live and suffer as Christ did. He gave his life without hesitation in order to reach those who were in the dark.
I don’t know how many people may have received salvation because of Stephen. But, I do know of one – Saul.
Who is Saul?
“and the witnesses laid aside their robes at the feet of a young man named Saul.”
You most likely already know this, but Saul the Jew (persecutor of Christians) later became Paul (the apostle). If nothing else is discovered in this Bible study lesson, let’s keep in mind that anyone can be changed by the glory of Christ.
As Christians, We Continue to Go, Serve & Share – Stephen Set the Example
Some people may not want to hear. Some will jeer. And yet others will take action against us. Even so, we must continue our efforts to spread the word about Jesus to all we come into contact with.
This is not to say we walk down the street with a Bible held in the air. It does mean that we need to grasp opportunities to talk about the truth when they arise. And, they should “know us by our love” (John 13:35).
Our job is to go, serve and tell – most times in that order. Can we do it?
Love in Christ
– Bob
If you would like to discover more about the love and life-changing experience of Jesus Christ, please take a moment to see John 3:16.