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.

1What is the greatest and amazing miracle?

2Was Stephen’s prayer answered?

3Stephen fell asleep!