Scripture Reading: Acts 6:8–15

Introduction

A. The testimony and the stoning of Stephen fill in some vital information about the early history of the church.

B. There are also some important lessons for us to learn, both from the material itself and the manner in which it was presented.

Discussion

I. Even in such circumstances, this sermon was brilliantly delivered.

A. Stephen first identified with his listeners (Acts 7:2, 39).

B. He reminds them of God’s promise to Abraham (v 5), His covenant (v 8), Israel’s affliction in Egypt (vv 19, 34), and their deliverance at the hand of Moses whom they rejected (vv 35–41).

C. Stephen concludes that they had also rejected the prophet whom they should have been expecting to come in the likeness of Moses (vv 25–28, 37–41).

D. The reaction of Stephen’s audience makes it clear that they plainly understood the application of his sermon.

II. What points can we glean from Stephen’s sermon?

A. We can see that God is the God of the whole world, not just Israel (vv 44–50).

B. We also see that God can accomplish His will even against the most powerful and sinister forces (vv 9–22).

C. We see that Israel’s tendency to reject God’s ways is a tendency we must strive to avoid (vv 51–53; cf. Hebrews 2:1–4).

Conclusion

A. We cannot help but be inspired by Stephen’s bravery, vision (vv 55–56), and love (vv 59–60).

B. May our love and resolve measure up to this godly man’s!