16/10/2022 [Book of Acts 33] www.lifechurchmissions.com
The Defence of Stephen (8): The Martyrdom and Glory of Stephen
Introduction:
* Stephen’s martyrdom revealed two kinds of extremes:
⟹ Those who killed others because of the gospel, and those who were being killed for the sake of the gospel
⟹ Portrayal of hell and heaven
⟹ How those whose sins are forgiven and those whose sins are not forgiven look like
* We have no right to judge others’ sins, but we can only commit those who offend and persecute us to the Lord
* Let the Lord heap burning coals on their heads ⟹ Repent or face judgment
Read <Ac 7:54-60>
1. <v54> The people were furious and gnashed their teeth at Stephen
* The looks of people in hell were revealed
* They were furious at hearing the gospel truth and gnashed their teeth
* When all of men’s sins are exposed, they either humble down and repent, or turn evil and murderous
2. <v55> Stephen who was full of the Holy Spirit
* He was full of the Holy Spirit when he was debating – Full of wisdom, courage and power
* He was full of the Holy Spirit when being persecuted – Saw the glory of Christ
* The glory of a martyr
3. <v56> Stephen saw Jesus and testified about it
4. <v57> The people’s angry reactions
5. <v58> The people used stones to kill Stephen
6. <v59> Only a blessed person could ask the Lord to receive his spirit
7. <v60> Stephen’s prayer: “Lord, do not hold this sin against them.”
1)What is the greatest and amazing miracle?
2)Was Stephen’s prayer answered?
3)Stephen fell asleep!