Acts 7: Stephen's Speech and Martyrdom
Stephen recounts Israel's story, confronts the council, and becomes the first martyr.
Summary
Standing before the council, Stephen gives a sweeping retelling of Israel's history — from Abraham and Joseph to Moses and the building of the temple — showing how God has always been at work and never confined to one place. He concludes by confronting his hearers for resisting the Holy Spirit and rejecting Jesus, the Righteous One. Enraged, the crowd drags him out and stones him. As he dies, Stephen sees the glory of God, entrusts his spirit to Jesus, and asks forgiveness for his killers, while a young man named Saul looks on with approval.
Main Characters
- Stephen — Boldly recounts God's story and becomes the first follower of Jesus to be killed for his faith.
- The council — Religious leaders enraged by Stephen's words.
- Saul — A young man who approves of Stephen's death and will later be transformed.
Key Verse
Acts 7:59-60 (WEB)
They stoned Stephen as he called out, saying, “Lord Jesus, receive my spirit!” He kneeled down, and cried with a loud voice, “Lord, don’t hold this sin against them!” When he had said this, he fell asleep.
Lessons Learned
- God's presence and purposes are never confined to one place or building.
- Faithful witness may cost everything, yet it is never wasted.
- Stephen's forgiveness echoes Jesus' own response to those who harmed him.
- God is present with his people even in suffering and death.
- Why does Stephen retell Israel's whole story before addressing the council directly?
- What does Stephen's forgiveness of his killers reveal about his faith?
- How does Stephen's death echo the death of Jesus?
- Saul watches approvingly — how does this detail set up what comes next?
- What helps a person stay faithful under intense pressure?