Study together · The Cast

Stephen

A table server who preached the longest sermon in Acts and died forgiving.

The story

1. Chosen to serve Acts 6:1-6

   The apostles ask for men full of the Spirit and wisdom. Stephen is named first, a man full of faith and of the Holy Spirit.

2. Seized and accused Acts 6:8-15

   Opponents cannot withstand his wisdom, so they bring false witnesses. The council sees his face like the face of an angel.

3. Tells Israel's story Acts 7:2-53

   He traces God's work from Abraham to Solomon and shows a pattern of resisting God's messengers.

4. Dies praying Acts 7:54-60

   He sees the heavens opened and the Son of Man standing at the right hand of God. He asks the Lord to receive his spirit and to forgive his killers.

Key verses

“Lord, do not hold this sin against them.” Acts 7:60 (ESV)

Read together: Acts 6:1-6 · Acts 6:8-15 · Acts 7:2-53 · Acts 7:54-60

Questions to sit with

1. Where are you tempted to think your ordinary work is too small for God to use?
2. What would it take for you to pray for someone who is actively harming you?

Scripture quotations are from the ESV® Bible, © 2001 by Crossway. Used by permission.