Hello Stephen
- Kirupakaran
- Feb 9
- 11 min read
In a battle, many soldiers lay down their lives for the nation. They are considered martyrs, and their heroic actions in defending the country and its freedom are honoured for generations. To show respect, the nation awards them the highest honours, with the government bestowing medals of valour. Some are further commemorated by having their names inscribed on buildings or roads as a tribute to their sacrifice.
Similarly, there was a man named Stephen, recognized as the first martyr in the New Testament. His sacrifice played a role in the transformation of Saul of Tarsus into Paul, who went on to write 13 books of the New Testament. Through Paul’s writings, we learn about Stephen, his life lessons, and how they can be applied to our own lives.
Context of early church
After Jesus was crucified and triumphed over the cross, He rose again and appeared to Mary Magdalene and many of His disciples, strengthening their faith. He gave them the Great Commission and ascended into heaven (Luke 24:50-52), promising to send the Holy Spirit to empower and revive them so they could fulfil His great commission (Matthew 28:19-20)
[Matthew 28:19-20 NIV] 19 Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20 and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”
After Jesus ascended to Heaven, the disciples met regularly and constantly prayed that the words of God had to be fulfilled [Acts 1:14-16 NIV] 14 They all joined together constantly in prayer, along with the women and Mary the mother of Jesus, and with his brothers. 15 In those days Peter stood up among the believers (a group numbering about a hundred and twenty) 16 and said, "Brothers and sisters, the Scripture had to be fulfilled in which the Holy Spirit spoke long ago through David concerning Judas, who served as guide for those who arrested Jesus.
When the day of Pentecost arrived and they were all gathered in one place (Acts 2:1-12), they were filled with the Holy Spirit, enabling them to speak in different tongues. From that moment, the followers of Jesus, known as "The Way," began to grow in number. Every day, they devoted themselves to teaching, fellowship, the breaking of bread, and prayer.
[Acts 2:42-46 NIV] 42 They devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer. 43 Everyone was filled with awe at the many wonders and signs performed by the apostles. 44 All the believers were together and had everything in common. 45 They sold property and possessions to give to anyone who had need. 46 Every day they continued to meet together in the temple courts. They broke bread in their homes and ate together with glad and sincere hearts,
They were deeply spiritual and obedient, faithfully carrying out the Lord's command to fulfil the Great Commission He had entrusted to them.
Early Church Challenge
[Acts 6:1 NIV] 1 In those days when the number of disciples was increasing, the Hellenistic Jews among them complained against the Hebraic Jews because their widows were being overlooked in the daily distribution of food.
As the early church grew, there were two distinct groups of Jews in the Church.
Hellenistic Jews: These were Jews with a Greek background.
Hebraic Jews: These were Jews with an Aramaic background. The Hebraic Jews, often referred to as Palestinian Jews, took pride in their heritage, as they had always lived in the land of the patriarchs and spoke the same language as their ancestors. They were also close to the temple and regularly worshiped there.
A challenge arose when the Hellenistic Jews complained to the disciples that their widows were being overlooked in the daily distribution of food by the Hebraic Jews.
How did they overcome ? So the disciples met together and decided to elect seven men from this group who were to be with full of spirit and wisdom.
[Acts 6:3-4 NIV] 3 Brothers and sisters, choose seven men from among you who are known to be full of the Spirit and wisdom. We will turn this responsibility over to them 4 and will give our attention to prayer and the ministry of the word.”
Introspection: Looking Inside vs. Looking Outside - The apostles did not blame each other or take sides. Instead, they introspected their work and their commitment to the Lord. This is a valuable lesson: when problems arise, first examine your own house before looking outward.
They became so focused on serving tables that they neglected prayer and the ministry of the Word.
God permitted Satan to introduce the “spirit of gluttony” to the church to prompt a renewed focus on prayer and the spreading of God’s Word.
Church is built on Prayer and Mediation. If the priority to this is taken as secondary, the church will face challenges.
The Church was willing to Make Adjustments to Facilitate Growth, The apostles were open to sharing their authority and responsibilities, allowing others to contribute to the ministry’s expansion. This shift created space for servant leadership through the appointment of seven men.
The Solution: Appointing Seven Leaders - [Acts 6:5 NIV] 5 ‘This proposal pleased the whole group. They chose Stephen, a man full of faith and of the Holy Spirit; also Philip, Procorus, Nicanor, Timon, Parmenas, and Nicolas from Antioch, a convert to Judaism.’
Six of the chosen men were Hellenistic Jews, and one- Nicolas, was a Gentile convert from Antioch.
Among them, Philip played a key role as an evangelist, preaching in Samaria (Acts 8:5-8) and guiding the Ethiopian eunuch to Christ (Acts 8:26-40).
Who was Stephen ?
[Act 6:8 NIV] 8 Now Stephen, a man full of God's grace and power, performed great wonders and signs among the people.
Stephen was one of the seven men chosen by the disciples to help serve the early church. He was a Hellenistic (Greek-speaking) Jew.
He was described as:
A man full of faith and the Holy Spirit (Acts 6:5).
A man full of grace and power, chosen because of his wisdom and strong faith in God (Acts 6:8).
Stephen and Philip: Two Powerful Missionaries
Stephen became the first Christian martyr, dying for his faith (Acts 7:54-60).
Philip became the first missionary, preaching in Samaria and baptizing the Ethiopian eunuch (Acts 8:5-13, 26-40; Acts 21:8).
Their lives show that God can use anyone powerfully if they are faithful in their calling.
Stephen Lived Out God’s Word
He served out of love for others, following [Romans 12:10] 10 “Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves.”
Even though he wasn’t given the official title of deacon, he met the qualifications outlined in 1 Timothy 3:8-13 and Philippians 1:1.
Stephen Stood for Grace, Not the Law
He fully embraced God’s grace, rather than relying on religious laws and traditions.
His bold preaching led to opposition from religious leaders, just as Jesus faced opposition for speaking the truth.
Stephen’s Miracles and Opposition
He didn’t keep God’s power to himself—he performed miracles and glorified God in front of the people.
However, opposition arose, just as it did for Jesus.
Where Did the Opposition Come From?
The Synagogue of the Freedmen (Acts 6:9) – A group of Hellenistic (Greek-speaking) Jews, who also caused problems earlier in the church.
How Did They Oppose Him?
Arguments & Debates – They tried to challenge Stephen’s wisdom, but they couldn’t win because he spoke with God’s wisdom [Acts 6:10 NIV] 10 'But they could not stand up against the wisdom the Spirit gave him as he spoke. ‘
False Accusations – They secretly convinced people to lie about him, just as they did with Jesus(Acts 6:11; Matthew 26:3-4)
[Acts 6:11 NIV] 11 'Then they secretly persuaded some men to say, “We have heard Stephen speak blasphemous words against Moses and against God.” ‘
[Matthew 26:3-4 NIV] 3 Then the chief priests and the elders of the people assembled in the palace of the high priest, whose name was Caiaphas, 4 and they schemed to arrest Jesus secretly and kill him.
Stirring Up the Crowd – They spread lies to turn the people and religious leaders against him [Acts 6:12 NIV] 'So they stirred up the people and the elders and the teachers of the law. They seized Stephen and brought him before the Sanhedrin. ‘
False Witnesses – They brought people to falsely testify that Stephen spoke against the Temple and the Law [Acts 6:13 NIV] 'They produced false witnesses, who testified, “This fellow never stops speaking against this holy place and against the law. ‘
Reflect back : Does This Happen now?
Have you ever faced opposition for standing up for your faith in Christ ?
Do people falsely accuse you, argue against you, or try to silence you when you speak God’s truth?
These are the enemy’s tactics to attack those who are filled with God’s grace and righteousness
Stephen’s story teaches us that when we stand for God’s truth, opposition will come. Just like Stephen, we must remain faithful, bold, and full of grace—trusting that Jesus is with us, he is faithful to his calling.
Works of Stephen
In Acts 7:1-50, Stephen provides an overview of the Old Testament, highlighting God’s work through history.
Stephen explains the works of the Law, showing how the people repeatedly disobeyed God.
Stephen compares the Law to Grace and the works of Grace as they oppose the spirit and wisdom, He takes the sharp knife of the Word of God and rips up the sins of the people, laying open the inward parts of their hearts, and the secrets of their soul . [Acts 7:51-53 NIV] 51 "You stiff-necked people! Your hearts and ears are still uncircumcised. You are just like your ancestors: You always resist the Holy Spirit! 52 Was there ever a prophet your ancestors did not persecute? They even killed those who predicted the coming of the Righteous One. And now you have betrayed and murdered him-- 53 you who have received the law that was given through angels but have not obeyed it.”
Since Stephen was a man filled with Spirit, The Holy Spirit in him that’s gentle and corrects and cuts like a sharp knife to speak the truth , was evident in his words. [John 16:7-8 NIV] 7 But very truly I tell you, it is for your good that I am going away. Unless I go away, the Advocate will not come to you; but if I go, I will send him to you. 8 When he comes, he will prove the world to be in the wrong about sin and righteousness and judgment:
Like an advocate who argues in court, he explains how the Law was given to them from Acts 7:1-50
The Holy Spirit is the word of truth - Stephen spoke what is correct and on truth as it state’s in [John 16:13 NIV] 13 But when he, the Spirit of truth, comes, he will guide you into all the truth. He will not speak on his own; he will speak only what he hears, and he will tell you what is yet to come.
We see that evident in Stephen speech - He corrects them of the Sins - And now you have betrayed and murdered him— you who have received the law that was given through angels but have not obeyed it.” '
He accused the Jews who conspired to Murder Jesus so that the works of Law can be saved as it’s stated in [Matthew 26:3-4 NIV] 3 Then the chief priests and the elders of the people assembled in the palace of the high priest, whose name was Caiaphas, 4 and they schemed to arrest Jesus secretly and kill him.
Impact when the Truth is exposed
Enemy’s Actions
[Act 7:54, 57-58 NIV] 54 When the members of the Sanhedrin heard this, they were furious and gnashed their teeth at him. ... 57 At this they covered their ears and, yelling at the top of their voices, they all rushed at him, 58 dragged him out of the city and began to stone him. Meanwhile, the witnesses laid their coats at the feet of a young man named Saul.
They were furious that the truth was exposed.
How did they respond
They were Gnashing their teeth - this symbolizes intense anger, frustration, and hatred
They were yelling at their voices
They began to beat him with Stones.
“Laid their coats at the feet of a young man named Saul” - This suggest Saul was overseeing or approving the execution. This moment was significant because Saul would later become a great apostle of Jesus, showing God’s power to transform even the most hardened persecutor into a devoted follower.
Hello Stephen
[Acts 6:15 NIV] 15'All who were sitting in the Sanhedrin looked intently at Stephen, and they saw that his face was like the face of an angel.'
He was like an angel - While this rage happening on him, we read in Acts 6:15, his face turned to be like of an angel
Looking to heaven -
When they were fighting he was looking to heaven, He saw Glory of God - [Acts 7:55 NIV] 55 'But Stephen, full of the Holy Spirit, looked up to heaven and saw the glory of God, and Jesus standing at the right hand of God. '
Lessons to Learn:
Faith in Action - What an incredible example of faith!
Eyes to Heaven - Even in the middle of persecution and hatred, Stephen didn’t focus on the angry crowd—he fixed his eyes on heaven.
Overcoming Evil with Grace - Instead of reacting with fear or anger, he relied on God’s grace to overcome human emotions.
Trust in God - This teaches us to trust in God and keep our focus on Him, even in difficult situations.
Giving testimony- He testified that Son of God was seated at Right hand of God, he saw heaven and testified how it’s to the people who are filled with fury and anger, did not bother if they listened or not - [Acts 7:56 NIV] 57 '“Look,” he said, “I see heaven open and the Son of Man standing at the right hand of God.” '
Lessons to Learn:
Overcoming Satan’s Attacks – When the enemy tries to stir up anger and accusations, Stephen proved his faith by standing firm and testifying about Jesus, the heavens also rejoiced over his action [Revelation 12:11 NIV] 11 They triumphed over him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony; they did not love their lives so much as to shrink from death.
Glorifying God Until the End – Even with his final breath, Stephen praised God. His testimony reminds us that one day, God will receive us into His presence, just as He welcomed Stephen.
Faith in Action – Stephen’s courage strengthens our faith, showing us that no matter the opposition, we should stand firm and testify about God’s power and salvation.
Pleading Prayer - As Stephen was being stoned, he prayed earnestly, asking Jesus to receive his spirit, just like Jesus did on the cross. [Acts 7:59 NIV] 59 'While they were stoning him, Stephen prayed, “Lord Jesus, receive my spirit.” '
Interceding prayer - Stephen fell to his knees and prayed for God to forgive his enemies, just like Jesus did on the cross. God honoured his prayer by later transforming Saul of Tarsus into Paul, who became a great apostle. [Acts 7:60 NIV] 60 'Then he fell on his knees and cried out, “Lord, do not hold this sin against them.” When he had said this, he fell asleep.'
How Saul was connected with Stephen’s death -
[Act 7:58 NIV] 58 dragged him out of the city and began to stone him. Meanwhile, the witnesses laid their coats at the feet of a young man named Saul.
[Act 8:1 NIV] 1 And Saul approved of their killing him. On that day a great persecution broke out against the church in Jerusalem, and all except the apostles were scattered throughout Judea and Samaria.
How Paul remembers his role in Stephen’s death
[Act 22:20 NIV] 20 And when the blood of your martyr Stephen was shed, I stood there giving my approval and guarding the clothes of those who were killing him.’
Important Lessons from the First Martyr
Don’t fight back—Look to Heaven – Instead of focusing on the problem or reacting to anger and attacks, Stephen looked up to God’s glory. What a powerful lesson for us!
Are we testifying about God? – Even in the worst situations, like when facing danger or opposition, Stephen boldly spoke about God’s glory. Do we have the same courage to share our faith?
Are we praying for our enemies like Stephen? – He knelt and prayed for his accusers, asking God to forgive them. His heartfelt prayer led to Saul’s transformation into Paul, one of the greatest apostles.
When we cry out to God, He moves to rescue people from the enemy’s hold.
If one prayer from Stephen led to Paul’s salvation, imagine how many more lives could be changed if we prayed the same way!
Often, we do the opposite of what Stephen did, and that’s why some of our prayers remain unanswered. His life teaches us to trust God, testify boldly, and pray with a heart of love and forgiveness.
Amen