Stephen’s Final Sermon and Martyrdom

📖 Introduction

The story of Stephen in the Book of Acts is one of profound faith, boldness, and sacrifice. 🌟 As the first Christian martyr, Stephen’s life and death provide a compelling example of unwavering trust in God, even in the face of persecution and suffering. His final sermon, recorded in Acts 7, offers a rich tapestry of Israel’s history, highlighting God’s faithfulness while exposing the hardness of those who reject Him. Stephen’s spirit-filled proclamation not only challenges his listeners but also calls believers today to consider their own faith and witness.

Stephen’s story begins with his appointment as one of the seven deacons, chosen to serve the early church by managing charitable distributions. However, he quickly became known for performing miraculous signs and speaking with wisdom and the Spirit (Acts 6:8). This drew the ire of certain opposition groups who accused him of blasphemy. Yet, instead of defending himself with mere human arguments, Stephen delivered a powerful sermon recounting God’s dealings with His people throughout history, culminating in a call to repentance and faith.

Despite intense hostility, Stephen’s faith did not waver. As he was stoned to death, he demonstrated the grace of Christ by praying for his enemies, echoing Jesus’ example on the cross. His martyrdom marks a pivotal moment in the early church, igniting widespread persecution but also fueling the spread of the gospel.

This 7-day study invites you to walk through Stephen’s sermon and final moments, learning from his example of courage, forgiveness, and trust in God’s justice. May his story inspire you to stand firm in your faith and reflect Christ’s love and boldness in every circumstance. 📖🙏