Acts 6:8-15 | Facing OppositionSample

The last verse of Acts 6 is strange. After accusing Stephen of blaspheming God, speaking against all that God had previously done among his people, and following Jesus who is responsible for it all, it says the Sanhedrin looked intently at him. Almost as if waiting to see how he would reply. This wasn’t new territory for the Sanhedrin. They already faced this with the apostles in Acts 3-5. Would Stephen act the same way?

Then Luke tells us something strange. It says Stephen’s face was like the face of an angel (Acts 6:15).

The word “angel” brings all kinds of images to mind. For some, it’s a cherubic face of innocence and kindness. In the Bible, it’s often the resolute face of a soldier for Christ. But there is one recurring thing angels say, something we shouldn’t miss and that may speak into understanding Stephen’s demeanor: “Do not be afraid.” Angels say, “Do not be afraid” because when God’s grace and favor is upon you, there’s nothing to fear.

When facing opposition, it’s easy to be afraid. It’s tempting to succumb to fear. Especially in cases like Stephen and the apostles.

What opposition are you facing? If it’s because of your loyalty to Jesus, may the example of Stephen and message of the angels ring in your ears: Do not be afraid. God is with you.

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