Acts 6:8-10,7:54-59
Psalm 30(31):3-4,6,8,16-17
Matthew 10:17-22
Why was Stephen stoned to death? He was a young Christian. He was one of the seven deacons (the very sets of deacons) helping with food distribution by the apostles . Soon, he performed wonders among the people, attracting scrutiny from leaders and elders.
They accused him of heresy, and he was brought before the high priest to defend himself. Stephen summarized the Old Testament for the high priest, quoting scripture without blasphemy, but his final message called the people stiff-necked and resisting the Holy Spirit, persecuting prophets, betraying and murdering Jesus, and not keeping the law (Acts 7:51).
Enraged, they ground their teeth, and StephenAnddw God’s glory and Jesus standing at the right hand. Despite this, they covered their ears and stoned him, as punishment for blasphemy (Deut. 24:16). During his death, Stephen prayed for Jesus to receive his spirit and for forgiveness for his killers.
Witness Saul observed this. Stephen’s words showed Christ was in him, and he was Christ-like. His death marked him as the first martyr, symbolizing surrender to God. Stephen’s victory over evil came through faith, forgiveness, and God’s grace, setting an example for Christians.
Paul later acknowledged Stephen’s role in his own conversion (1 Cor. 11:1), and from Stephen’s sacrifice, salvation’s seed was planted. Augustine noted that Paul owed his salvation to Stephen’s prayer. Today, believers are called to trust Jesus, the bread of life, and seek God’s peace.
Fr Joseph Osho