Updated on
Stephen
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.
Read the full story of StephenJourney Timeline
Chosen as Deaconc. 33-34 AD
JerusalemWhen 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 6:1-6Debating in Synagoguesc. 34 AD
JerusalemMembers 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 6:9-10False Accusationc. 34 AD
JerusalemHis 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 6:11-14The Great Defensec. 34 AD
JerusalemStephen 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 7:1-53Vision of Heavenc. 34 AD
JerusalemAs 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 7:54-56Martyrdomc. 34 AD
JerusalemThe 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
Events in the life of Stephen
Explore more characters
See all characters
SusannaSupporter of Jesus' Ministry
TamarJudah's Daughter-in-Law, Ancestress of David
TerahFather of Abraham, the Man Who Stopped at Haran
The ShulammiteBeloved in the Song of Solomon
ThomasThe Doubting Apostle
TimothyYoung Pastor, Companion of Paul
TitusPaul's Companion and Church Leader in Crete
TobiahAmmonite Official who Opposed Nehemiah
XerxesKing of Persia, Husband of Esther
ZacchaeusTax Collector who Met Jesus
ZebulunTenth Son of Jacob, Who Shall Dwell by the Sea
ZechariahProphet of Messianic Visions



