[:en]Stephens Speech to the Sanhedrin (vs. 1-53)
Stephen relate the history of Israel as follows: From Abraham – Jesus – Jacob – Joseph – Moses – Joshua – David – Solomon, He seized the opportunity to summarize his teachings about Jesus and revealed to them that they circumcised their baby boys but failed to obey God and keep their part of covenant. He also testified God’s faithfulness and sovereignty. He used “assembly” –EKLESIA to describe the congregation of people of God in the wilderness. He pointed out that the giving of the law through Moses to the Jews was the sign of covenant. By obedience, they would continue to be God’s covenant people. But their disobedience broke the covenant and forfeited their right to be the chosen people. He also gave details of idolatry – Molech – the god associated with child sacrifice and Rephan – an Egyptian god. (v. 42) He accused them of persecuting and killing many prophets: Uriah (Jer, 26:20-23), Jeremiah (Jer. 38:1-6), Isaaiah (2 Kings 21:16), Amos (Amos 7:10-13). Zechariah, son of Jehoida (2 Chro. 24:20-22) and Elijah (1 Kings 19:1-2)
The Stoning of Stephen (vs. 54-60)
Stephen was full of the Holy Spirit when he saw the glory of God and Jesus standing at the right hand of God. He said: “Look I see heavens open and the Son of Man standing at the right hand of Go d” (vs. 55-56). Many rushed out and dragged Stephen out of the city and stoned him. While they were stoning him, Stephen prayed : “Lord Jesus, receive my spirit. Lord, do not hold this sin against them” (v. 60) After saying this, he died. Saul was there witnessing Stephen’s death. It had a profound impact on Paul and he later became the world’s greatest missionary. Saul (Hebrew name) used Paul (Greek name) to begin his ministry to the Gentiles.
Things to Ponder:
- Paul is a powerful example of a person who was thought to be impossible for God to change. But God changed him and used him mightily in the proclamation of His kingdom.
- Stephen was bold in his speech to the Sanhedrin. do you have the courage to speak the truth?
- Do you have an idol in your heart? When you regard someone or something more important than god, that is your idol.
- God gives us His law – the 10 commandments. Are you obedient to His commands?
- Stephen showed us a vivid example of forgiving repsonse. At the point of his death, he asked forgiveness for his murderers. How will you respond to your enemies?
[:]