One of the first seven deacons of the church in Jerusalem, and the first Christian martyr.
About Stephen
Stephen was one of the first deacons (church leaders who took care of practical needs) in the early church. He was the first person to die for his faith in Jesus.
For Luke, Stephen shows how some people in the early Jerusalem church were becoming more interested in Greek culture. Also, Stephen's speech criticizes traditional Judaism and suggests spreading the gospel beyond Judea (Acts 7:1–53).
Key References
This proposal pleased the whole group. They chose Stephen, a man full of faith and of the Holy Spirit, as well as Philip, Prochorus, Nicanor, Timon, Parmenas, and Nicolas from Antioch, a convert to Judaism.
Now Stephen, who was full of grace and power, was performing great wonders and signs among the people.
While they were stoning him, Stephen appealed, “Lord Jesus, receive my spirit.”
God-fearing men buried Stephen and mourned deeply over him.
All Scripture References (7)
Acts (7)
This proposal pleased the whole group. They chose Stephen, a man full of faith and of the Holy Spirit, as well as Philip, Prochorus, Nicanor, Timon, Parmenas, and Nicolas from Antioch, a convert to Judaism.
Now Stephen, who was full of grace and power, was performing great wonders and signs among the people.
But resistance arose from what was called the Synagogue of the Freedmen, including Cyrenians, Alexandrians, and men from the provinces of Cilicia and Asia. They disputed with Stephen,
While they were stoning him, Stephen appealed, “Lord Jesus, receive my spirit.”
God-fearing men buried Stephen and mourned deeply over him.
Meanwhile those scattered by the persecution that began with Stephen traveled as far as Phoenicia, Cyprus, and Antioch, speaking the message only to Jews.
And when the blood of Your witness Stephen was shed, I stood there giving my approval and watching over the garments of those who killed him.’