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The Stoning of Stephen

55 But Stephen, full of the Holy Spirit, looked up to heaven and saw the glory of God, and Jesus standing at the right hand of God. 56 “Look” he said, “I see heaven open and the Son of Man standing at the right hand of God.”

57 At this they covered their ears and yelling at the top of their voices, they all rushed at him, 58 dragged him out of the city and began to stone him. Meanwhile, the witnesses laid their clothes at the feet of a young man named Saul.

59 While they were stoning him, Stephen prayed, “Lord Jesus, receive my spirit.” 60 Then he fell on his knees and cried out, “Lord, do not hold this sin against them” When he had said this, he fell asleep.

 

This brief Scripture is so very full that we could go many directions in trying to learn what it means for us. First of all, who was Stephen? His story begins in Acts 6 with his being chosen as one of seven Greek speaking Jews charged with administering a food program and describes him as being “full of faith and the Holy Spirit. One of the attributes of the Holy Spirit is that He is an enabler...one who helps us become strong Christians and to do God's work.

 

When Stephen began doing great wonders and miraculous signs among the people, he stirred up opposition among the elders and teachers of the law and was accused of speaking against the temple and the law. Finally, he was brought before the Sanhedrin, and he proceeded to review Israel's history on the writings of Moses and showing that Jesus' death was an example of the people's rebellion against God.

 

Do you ever speak knowing that your words will elicit a negative response? Surely, Stephen knew that the result of his words would be death by stoning. However, he kept his eyes on the Lord and echoed Jesus' words from the cross where He died, “Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do.” Stephen chose to obey the guidance of the Holy Spirit, resulting in his own death.

 

Are you a risk taker? What are you willing to risk to follow Jesus? Would you die for Him? Are you willing to live for Him? What are God's plans for you? Are you willing to follow where He leads you? Or do you just want to “play it safe”?

 

Because of the enabling of the Holy Spirit, Stephen became a miracle worker and evangelist. How can God use you to make a difference? We never know who is watching what we do or say and how God can use it to draw others to Him. Perhaps a simple word or action of love from you will touch the heart of someone who needs to know that they are unconditionally loved, regardless of their past.

 

Stephen's request for forgiveness for those stoning him may have been the seed planted in the heart of Saul, who was standing by, observing the stoning with approval. The estimated time between Stephen's death and Saul's conversion was 1-3 years. God's perfect timing.

 

As a result of Saul's encounter with Jesus on the road to Damascus, his life was completely turned around. He became Paul, whose letters comprise of much of the New Testament. You may not

become a Paul, but God does have a plan for you. Trust Him.

 

Heavenly Father, grant us today the sensitivity to recognize where your Holy Spirit is guiding us. Make us ever aware of the power available to us through Your Spirit. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.

 

Sarah (Sally) L. Messmer

star19mess@gmail.com

Prayer Concern: Those who are struggling with issues of forgiveness. May they realize that it is in forgiving that they are forgiven.