Stephen

Q: Why is Stephen called the first martyr?

Stephen is the first Christian martyr recorded in Scripture. While others may have died earlier, his death is the first explicitly described. The Greek word 'martyr' means 'witness,' and Stephen bore witness to Jesus even to death. His martyrdom set the pattern for countless who would follow.

Q: Why was Jesus standing rather than seated?

Normally Scripture describes Jesus seated at God's right hand. Stephen saw Him standing, which may indicate Jesus rising to welcome His faithful witness, standing in honor of Stephen's testimony, or ready to receive Stephen's spirit. The vision assured Stephen of Christ's attention and approval.

Q: How did Stephen's death affect Saul?

Saul approved Stephen's execution and guarded the executioners' garments. Yet Stephen's prayer for forgiveness and his peaceful death seem to have haunted Saul. Jesus later asked Saul why he was 'kicking against the goads.' Stephen's witness was likely one of those goads that eventually led to Saul's conversion.

First Christian Martyr

New Testament

Stephen was one of the seven chosen to serve tables in the early church. Full of faith and power, he performed great wonders. He was the first Christian martyr, stoned for his bold witness.

Character Traits

Full of the SpiritWiseCourageousForgiving

Life Timeline

Chosen as Deaconc. 33-34 AD

When Greek-speaking widows are neglected in daily food distribution, the apostles appoint seven men to oversee this ministry. Stephen is chosen first, described as 'full of faith and of the Holy Spirit.' He is set apart with prayer and laying on of hands.

ACT 6:1-6

Signs and Wondersc. 34 AD

Stephen, full of grace and power, performs great wonders and signs among the people. Though appointed for practical service, his ministry extends to miraculous works. He combines service with supernatural power.

ACT 6:8

Debating in Synagoguesc. 34 AD

Members of the Synagogue of the Freedmen argue with Stephen, but they cannot stand against his wisdom and the Spirit by which he speaks. Unable to defeat him in debate, they resort to false accusations.

ACT 6:9-10

False Accusationc. 34 AD

His opponents secretly persuade men to accuse Stephen of blasphemy against Moses and God. They stir up the people, elders, and scribes. Stephen is seized and brought before the Sanhedrin. False witnesses testify against him.

ACT 6:11-14

Face Like an Angelc. 34 AD

As the Sanhedrin looks at Stephen, they see his face is like the face of an angel. Even before he speaks, God's glory visibly rests upon him. His countenance testifies to his communion with God.

ACT 6:15

The Great Defensec. 34 AD

Stephen delivers the longest speech in Acts, reviewing Israel's history from Abraham through Moses to Solomon. He shows that Israel consistently resisted God's Spirit and rejected His messengers, culminating in killing the Righteous One, Jesus.

ACT 7:1-53

Vision of Heavenc. 34 AD

As his accusers grind their teeth, Stephen, full of the Holy Spirit, gazes into heaven and sees God's glory with Jesus standing at His right hand. He declares aloud what he sees, enraging them further.

ACT 7:54-56

Martyrdomc. 34 AD

The mob rushes Stephen, drags him outside the city, and stones him. The witnesses lay their cloaks at the feet of a young man named Saul. Stephen prays: 'Lord Jesus, receive my spirit' and 'Lord, do not hold this sin against them.' Then he falls asleep.

ACT 7:57-60

Burial and Legacyc. 34 AD

Devout men bury Stephen and mourn deeply. His death triggers widespread persecution, scattering believers throughout Judea and Samaria. This dispersion becomes the means of spreading the gospel. Saul, who approved Stephen's death, will later become Paul.

ACT 8:1-4

Key Relationships

Paul the Apostlerelations.other

Saul witnessed and approved Stephen's death, guarding the coats of those who stoned him. Stephen's prayer for his persecutors and his faithful death may have influenced Saul's later conversion. The first martyr and the great apostle are forever linked.

Key Locations

Jerusalem

Jerusalem was the site of Stephen's entire recorded ministry: his appointment as deacon, his powerful preaching, his trial, and his martyrdom. The city that rejected Jesus also rejected His faithful witness.

Spiritual Lessons

Faithful in Service, Powerful in Ministry

Stephen was appointed to serve tables, yet he performed wonders and preached with irresistible wisdom. Faithfulness in practical service opened doors to expanded ministry. Small tasks faithfully done lead to greater impact.

Vision of Jesus Sustains Suffering

Stephen saw Jesus standing to receive him as stones flew. This vision sustained him through martyrdom. Keeping our eyes on Jesus enables us to endure whatever persecution may come.

Forgive as You Die

Stephen's final prayer was for his killers, not against them. Like Jesus, he forgave those executing him. This prayer may have been answered in Saul's conversion. Forgiveness extends grace even to persecutors.

Key Verses

Acts 6:5-8 Acts 7:54-60

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is Stephen called the first martyr?+

Why was Jesus standing rather than seated?+

How did Stephen's death affect Saul?+

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