Stephen was one of the seven disciples that the twelve chose to spread the Word to all the widows in the town. " Brothers, choose seven men from among you who are known to be full of the Spirit and wisdom. We will turn the responsibility over to them..." These men spent their time praying and laying their hands hands upon the widowed, and the Word of God spread rapidly.
Now stephen was one of the most wise, and performed a lot of miraculous signs within the town. So many men tried arguing with him, telling him that he was wrong, but no one could stand up against his wisdom. These men then lied and said that Stephen was speaking blasphemy words against God. Stephen was seized by false witnesses.
The high priest asked him if the charges against him were true. Stephen then spent a lot of time talking about the glory of God. He also talked about how how all the people in the town were resisting the Holy Spirit, not obeying with commands of our Lord.
After hearing all that Stephen had to say, they STONED him. After all of that, out of fear of God they stoned him. Stephen, however, asked God to receive his Spirit and forgive ALL OF THEM for the sin they were committing.
It amazes me, this story. Stephen died in order to live. He died knowing that know matter how many people denied him, he was right. God was protecting him.
Why can't we live this way? As much as people say that they would die for Him, would they really? Would you go through so much pain and still defend the one who died for us? Would you give up everything you love for the one who first loved us?
I know it would be hard for me to say yes.
"But you, O Lord, are a compassionate and gracious God, slow to anger, abounding in love and faithfulness." Psalm 86:15
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