Stephen First Christian Martyr

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.