Uncertain Times: Stephen is Stoned

Stephen is a follower of Jesus and the first to die for his faith after Jesus ascended to heaven.

He is one of the seven chosen by the disciples to care for the widows and distributing of food. {Acts 6:1-7}  “They chose Stephen, a man full of faith and of the Holy Spirit.”  {Acts 6:5}

Stephen performed many miracles and wonders until he is arrested and brought before the Sanhedrin. {Acts 6:8-15} Many false witnesses spoke against him, but Stephen is not deterred.

“All who were sitting in the Sanhedrin looked intently at Stephen, and they saw that his face was like the face of an angel.”  {Acts 6:15}  He had such faith, that he shone with it  as the Holy Spirit came upon him.

When the Sanhedrin ask him about the charges, he preaches the gospel telling all the Lord has done from the time of Abraham through the exodus. {Acts 7:1-53} He repeats Jesus words, calling them a “stiff necked people”. {Acts 7:51}

The Sanhedrin’s were angry at him and ordered his death.  “But Stephen, full of the Holy Spirit, looked up to heaven and saw the glory of God, and Jesus standing at the right hand of God.”  [Acts 7:55}

Even during this scary and uncertain time, “While they were stoning him, Stephen prayed, “Lord Jesus, receive my spirit.” {Acts 7:59}  He has faith and calls out to the Lord to receive him.

“Then he fell on his knees and cried out, “Lord, do not hold this sin against them.” When he had said this, he fell asleep.”  {Acts 7:60}

Stephen lived and preached fearlessly, whether before the people or after being arrest.  Even to the end, facing a brutal death, he spoke out for Jesus, calling to him in his time of need.

How often do we call out to the Lord in our time of need?  Are we fearless in our faith the way Stephen was?

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