The Life of Stephen
What we
know about Stephen is contained in the book of Acts.
Acts 6, 7,
8
Acts 6:1-15
First
impressions
Full of;
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Grace, The Spirit,
Wisdom, Power
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He had an abundance
of God's grace
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He could work signs
and wonders
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He had great insight
into God's plan.
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The Jewish leaders
could not withstand his wisdom and spirit.
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Just like Jesus they
brought false witnesses against him.
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He had a face like an
angel Matt. 28:2-4- This angel is not a description of angel. Stephen's
face was radiant with peace and joy. 2 Cor. 3:18 - we are being transformed
with glory from the Spirit Eccl. 8:1 - A man's wisdom makes him beam.
Psalms 34:4-5 - Looking at God makes our faces radiant. Dan. 12:3 - Those
that lead people to God have radiant faces.
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Acts 7 - This is
Stephen's defense. He summarized God's plan in and pointed out the flaws in
the Jewish leaders. In verses 48-60 Stephen's death is described.
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They were cut to the
quick- they were backed into the corner and rather than acknowledging their
mistakes, they killed him.
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Acts 8:1-4 -Saul
(Paul) was a willing participant. He persecuted and scattered the
Christians. Acts 22:20 - Paul probably never forgot it, but Paul was
forgiven and became a great missionary of Jesus.
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Stephen was a
committed Christian. He was willing to do whatever it took to further the
gospel. What is our level of commitment? Heb. 13:5-7 - We must rely on God
to help us when we've made the commitment. We need to prepare by reading
and praying. Romans 12:13 - Be prepared to bless those who persecute you.
Romans 8:35-39 - When we have the Spirit, we cannot be separated from God.
Pray for courage and boldness.
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Stephen relied on
God's grace. God's plan is perfect and we must rely on him. Stephen's
death helped spread the gospel throughout the world and to convert Saul.
—Bob Rossow, 1-27-08, a.m.