Bible Study - Acts 7: 1-59

Read Acts chapter 7 verses 1-59

The Defendant stands alone before the tiered ranks of the Sanhedrin, the supreme court of the Jews. There is no Defence counsel to present his case; no one to plead persuasively for mitigation when the inevitable guilty verdict is announced. The Prosecution evidence, though fabricated, is overwhelming. His blasphemy can be substantiated by a succession of 'eyewitnesses' who repeat, verbatim, the scandalous and scurrilous words spoken against God and His Temple.

Stephen's appointment, previously, with six others of "good reputation", to an important administrative position within the developing organisation of the Early Church, might have provided him with a legitimate claim to be in a "reserved occupation", allowing others to assume full responsibility for preaching and teaching and saving him from such a trial as he now faces... The Spirit within him, however, would not be bound and he stands on the front line of evangelism, performing "great miracles and wonders among the people".

Charges formally read, the High Priest asks "Is this true ?" No one word answer will suffice. Stephen, without the aid of a professional speechmaker or 'spin merchant', delivers one of the longest and most powerful discourses recorded in the New Testament. His carefully detailed survey of the history of Israel, highlighting wholesale disobedience by Jewish leaders, past and present, to the very Law that they profess to uphold, is all too much for his accusers.

Seventy grave rabbis, leaving their seats, rush with the wild mob to the sudden execution of a prisoner absolutely untried and uncondemned. A martyr indeed, the first of a line.

For thought

What does it take to be a Christian martyr? Are there different levels of martyrdom?

Research: "Dietrich Bonhoeffer 1906 - 1945

References:

• BONHOEFFER: "The Cost of Discipleship"

Prayer

O God, encourage us through the words and example of your faithful servants to fight our battles bravely and live our lives courageously.

Norbury Parish Church, Hazel Grove, Stockport, Cheshire. Telephone: 0161-483 8640