Stephen, a Leader Prepared for Death
Stephen, a leader prepared for death.
The exact origin of Stephen is not known. The Bible says very little about his background. But what little is mentioned is undeniably rich. He was a leader prepared for death. He was a true martyr. Being a martyr is not for everyone; it takes a leader who is fully aware of his calling and willing to do whatever it takes to honor that calling and glorify the One who called him.
Imagine if Stephen were living in our day of pandemic. Would he be content with churches being closed?
We have seen very few leaders rise up, question, and demand that churches be opened, with all the necessary precautions. Stephen was an extraordinary martyr; his words were irresistible, so great was his authority, courage, and the Spirit's wisdom (Acts 6:10). The officials brought false witnesses against him (Acts 6:13). In the face of the authorities' threats, he begins telling the story of Israel (Acts 7:1-50) and boldly accuses the authorities (Acts 7:51-53). The end of the story is simply amazing! Stephen's life is an example to all of us.
Stephen was a leader prepared by God for death. At the beginning of the confrontation, his opponents are stunned by Stephen's appearance. They saw that his face was like the face of an angel (Acts 6:15). God is wonderful and has given us one of the most beautiful stories of justice. First, let us look at the desperate reaction of the accusers in Acts 7:53. When they heard this, they were furious in their hearts and ground their teeth at Stephen. In Acts 7:57, they shouted, covered their ears, and rushed at him all together. Now look at how God prepares someone who is about to die. He saw the glory of God and Jesus standing at the right hand of God (Acts 7:55). At the end of his life, he says, "Lord, receive my spirit," and, finally, he shows his forgiving heart (Acts 7:60).
It is worth suffering for Jesus, because there is no suffering that can outweigh the peace, the joy of seeing heaven open to welcome us in our final moments.