Stephen

The story of Stephen

Stephen was one of the seven men chosen by the early Church in Jerusalem to oversee the distribution of food to widows, ensuring that no one was neglected. He was described as a man full of faith, grace, and the Holy Spirit, who performed great wonders and signs among the people. His wisdom and the spirit with which he spoke were so powerful that his opponents could not withstand him.

When religious leaders falsely accused him of blasphemy, Stephen was brought before the Sanhedrin. Instead of defending himself, he delivered a brilliant speech recounting Israel’s history of resisting God’s messengers. He concluded by accusing the leaders of murdering the Messiah. As they became enraged, Stephen looked up to heaven and saw the glory of God, with Jesus standing at God’s right hand.

The crowd dragged him out of the city and stoned him to death, making him the first Christian martyr. As he died, Stephen prayed for his executioners, asking God not to hold the sin against them. Watching the execution was a young man named Saul, who approved of the killing but would later be transformed into the apostle Paul. Stephen’s death triggered a great persecution that spread the Gospel beyond Jerusalem.