The martyrdom of Stephen provides for us one of the starkest contrasts in Scripture between the hostile, Christ-hating world and the gentle, loving, Spirit-filled people of God who confront the world. Stephen shows that standing for Christ is risky. But the earthly risk pales into comparison to the eternal reward. While Stephen was rejected by the world for standing for Christ, he was enabled, comforted and commended by Christ, assured of heaven and mightily used for Christ’s glory. In our study there are five crucial lessons every Christian must learn:
- Those who stand for Jesus will suffer for Jesus
- Those who stand for Jesus will be enabled and comforted by Jesus
- Those who stand for Jesus will be commended by Jesus
- Those who stand for Jesus have the assurance of being with Jesus
- Those who stand for Jesus will not suffer in vain