Who is Stephen?

Stephen was a Hellenist (Greek-speaking Jews) who was deemed the first “Christian Martyr.” The Hellenists, who probably formed a minority in the Christian community, complained that the care of their elderly widows was neglected in Jerusalem.The apostles presented the matter to the congregation and, pleading the press of responsibilities, instructed it to select seven deacons for this community service.   “Therefore, brothers, pick out from among you seven men of good repute, full of the Spirit and of wisdom, whom we will appoint to this duty.” (Acts 7:3 ESV) Stephen was the first selected. But Stephen did more than to look after the needy ones. Hebegan to preach the gospel of Christ, and to preach with such power as made everyonewho heard him feel the truth. Stephen saw before any other man in the churchsaw, that the gospel of Christ was not for Jews only, but was for all men; thatall men might be saved if they would believe in Jesus; and this great truthStephen began to preach with all his power.

Stephen the Martyr

mar·tyrˈmärdər/noun1. a person who is killed because of their religious or other beliefs."saints, martyrs, and witnesses to the faith"verb1. kill (someone) because of their beliefs."she was martyredfor her faith"

Therewas no doubt as to Stephen's exceptionally good character, and the miraculouspower that he had been given by God. It's interesting to note that althoughStephen was "just" a deacon, he certainly had gifts and powers fromGod that were at least equal to that of the apostles. He engaged in religious discussions among the adherents of synagogues of Diaspora Jews in the capital. Such preaching as this, that men who were not Jews might be saved by believing in Christ, made many of the Jews very angry. Like Jesus, he was seen as a major threat to the local religious authorities but had done nothing wrong but was arrested and brought before the Sanhedrin. “And gazing at him, all who sat in the council saw that his face was like the face of an angel.” (Acts 6:15 ESV)

He was found guilty and cast out of the city where he was stoned to death. His last words were similar to Jesus’ when he asked his heavenly Father to “forgive them, for they know not what they do.” (Luke 23:34 ESV) An innocent and good hearted Stephen said, “Lord, do not hold this sin against them.” (Acts 7:60 ESV)