Acts - Until Everyone KnowsSample

Acts 7

Stephen has been falsely accused of speaking against the Law and Moses. Stephen proceeds to tell some of the story of their Jewish faith, from Abraham’s Call to a new land, "where you are now living," to the story of Joseph, slavery in Egypt, and then Moses and the rescue of the Israelites out of slavery. He tells of God’s people rejecting Moses, disobeying God, and turning their backs on him.

With boldness, Stephen then accuses them of being just like their ancestors - resisting the Holy Spirit! He goes on to accuse them of murdering God’s "Righteous One," who the prophets had spoken about - Jesus. Stephen accuses them of not obeying God’s Law. The members of the Sanhedrin are furious, but Stephen, filled with the Spirit, looks up and sees "the glory of God" (vs. 55-56). He tells them of his vision of Heaven, with Jesus at the Right Hand of God. They are now filled with rage and stone him to death. Stephen’s response is to pray for forgiveness for his adversaries just before he dies!

Paul said to Timothy, "Preach the Word; be prepared in season and out of season; correct, rebuke and encourage – with great patience and careful instruction" (2 Timothy 4:2). Stephen knew exactly what to say, and he didn’t mince his words or hold back! But you also see him asking God not to hold this sin against them when they are stoning him. He didn’t hate them. He was fiercely defending Jesus and the Truth while at the same time still loving his accusers.

Do you defend your faith and stand up for Jesus? Or do you too often stay quiet? How well do you know the foundations of the Christian faith? Why don’t you make a decision to find out more so you can be better equipped to share your faith? Above all this, you need the Holy Spirit. He can supernaturally give you the words when you feel weak and inexperienced. You can have all the knowledge in the world, but without the Power of the Spirit, it won’t bring any fruit!

Lord, thank You that You don’t leave me to rely on my own strength or wisdom in difficult situations. Thank You Holy Spirit, that You fill me to overflowing and give me all that I need – love for others and the right words to always stand up for Jesus. Amen.

Rachel Gibson