Stephen was a witness in death to those around him as he lived out his faith amid dire circumstances. As Stephen performed signs, miracles, and wonders among the people, he entered into the crosshairs of satan. Satan is always at work to tear down the church and uses deceived people to carry out his missions.
One day, Jews from the Synagogue of Freed Slaves began to debate Stephen. Other Jews from Cyrene and other cities joined in this debate but could not stand against the wisdom of the Holy Spirit that Stephen spoke. When Stephen confronted them with the truth of the Gospel, they brought lying witnesses against him.
Lies have always been a tactic of the enemy, as Jesus tells us. John 8:44He was a murderer from the beginning. He has always hated the truth because there is no truth in him. When he lies, it is consistent with his character; for he is a liar and the father of lies. [1] As Stephen’s enemies attempted to tear him down verbally, he continued to speak the truth. Acts 7:51 “You stubborn people! You are heathen at heart and deaf to the truth. Must you forever resist the Holy Spirit? That’s what your ancestors did, and so do you! [2]
A Verbal Discussion Turned Violent
The Jews that heard the words of Stephen could no longer stand the truth. In defiance, they put their hands over their ears and began shouting at him as they dragged him out of the city to stone him. Putting their hands over their ears is symbolic of ignoring the truth. As they stoned Stephen, he did something that would make a statement long after He died. Acts 7:59 As they stoned him, Stephen prayed, “Lord Jesus, receive my spirit.” 60 He fell to his knees, shouting, “Lord, don’t charge them with this sin!” And with that, he died. [3]
Just as Jesus commended His Spirit to His Father, Stephen did the same thing. Then, in an act of mercy, Stephen, like Jesus, interceded for those who were killing Him so that the Lord would not charge them with this sin. The words Stephen spoke that day may not have affected some people, but they did affect Saul, who was nearby taking the coats of those stoning Stephen.
Saul Became a Believer
Stephen’s life, although short, was not wasted. His witness to Jesus and how he died would send ripples through the life of Saul and others. In Saul’s life, this incident burned into his memory. Why would Stephen speak so boldly about Jesus if his words were untrue?
After his conversion, Saul called himself the least of the Apostles because he persecuted believers in Jesus. Later, Saul, who we know by his Greek name, Paul, became a great missionary and influence in the early church. As believers, never minimize the impact you can have on others. We never know how God will use our actions to build the Kingdom and bring glory to God.
To learn how Stephen was a witness in death, listen here:
https://podpoint.com/light-of-christ-church-podcast/stephen
[1-3] Tyndale House Publishers. (2015). Holy Bible: New Living Translation. Tyndale House Publishers.