"And Stephen, full of faith and power, did great wonders and miracles among the people. Then there arose certain of the synagogue, which is called the synagogue of the Libertines, and Cyrenians, and Alexandrians, and of them of Cilicia and of Asia, disputing with Stephen. And they were not able to resist the wisdom and the spirit by which he spake. Then they suborned men, which said, We have heard him speak blasphemous words against Moses, and against God." The Word of God, tells us that "Stephen” was one of the seven chosen to assist the apostles in the administrative affairs of the early Jerusalem church. His name and activities strongly suggest that he was not a Jew of the strictest Palestinian tradition, but a Hellenist. That is, he was one of those who accepted at least some Greek customs. Among the seven, he seems to be noted for his outstanding character. He was full of the Spirit, faith, wisdom, and power. Stephen career as God's chosen was brief but illustrious. He was a forceful apologist and a worker of miracles. God’s approval of Stephens’ work was evident by the angelic countenance given to him. Nevertheless, the Jews led by a young radical named Saul (later Paul), rejected his message and martyred (Killed) him.
Stephen's testimony and message about our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ was powerful, so much so he was lied on by those who opposed the word of God. The bible tells us that "They set up false witnesses, which said, This man ceaseth not to speak blasphemous words against this holy place, and the law:" This is much like the accusers of Jesus, the whole accusation was a lie. Remember, whenever they say "we've heard" it's usually a lie! "For we have heard him say, that this Jesus of Nazareth shall destroy this place, and shall change the customs which Moses delivered us." When the preaching of the word of God, causes one to be executed, there will be fewer proclamations of the true word of God. The testimony of Stephen can be found in Acts, Chapter 7. It begins with the call of Abraham and ends with crucifixion of Jesus Christ. Please, read the entire chapter to fully understand the word of God.
In the Book of Acts, 7:51, Stephen referred to these individuals as "stubborn and unrepentant in their hearts." He admonished them, saying, "You stubborn people, with uncircumcised hearts and ears! You are always resisting the Holy Spirit, just as your ancestors did." Stephen pointed out that despite their physical circumcision according to the Abrahamic covenant, they lacked a true connection with God in their hearts. While they followed the law outwardly, they were spiritually blind and deaf. He likened them to their forefathers, who were meticulous in their observance of the law but had not truly embraced the Lawgiver. Their faith was based on outward rituals rather than a genuine spiritual connection.
Stephen's testimony was rejected by the arrogant and callous religious leaders who considered it blasphemy. They rushed towards him with the intention of capturing and killing him. It seems likely they deliberately ignored what Stephen was saying because they were not willing to accept that they had played a part in the death of the Lord. If Stephen was speaking the truth, then they would be facing eternal damnation. The undeniable truth was reflected in Stephen's radiant appearance, making it impossible to ignore his message. The thought of witnessing the splendor of heaven would have been overwhelming, making any form of death seem insignificant in comparison to the opportunity to enter such a divine realm. The bible tells us in Acts 7:59, the Bible recounts the stoning of Stephen, who invoked God and said, "Lord Jesus, receive my spirit." This act was a punishment for blasphemy as stated in Leviticus 24:16. However, it was not an official execution but a violent act by a mob. As Stephen ascended to Heaven, he saw God and Jesus Christ standing at his right hand, indicating that a Christian's spirit goes to heaven upon death. Stephen's spirit ascended to heaven immediately after his death. The scripture reveals that he knelt down, cried out, "Lord, do not hold this sin against them," and then peacefully passed away. All Glory and Honor to our God and Savior Jesus Christ. World without end, Amen.
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