Stephen
The First Christian Martyr Who Saw Heaven Open
Name Information
- Meaning: "Crown" (Greek: Stephanos)
- Language of Origin: Greek
- Gender Usage: Masculine
Stephen was one of the first deacons in the early church and became the first Christian martyr. Full of faith, wisdom, and the Holy Spirit, he boldly proclaimed the Gospel even when it cost him his life. As he was being stoned, he saw Jesus standing at the right hand of God and prayed for his killers. His death marked a turning point in the church’s mission — scattering believers and sparking widespread evangelism.
⏰ 1st century AD
Roles
- Deacon
- Martyr
- Preacher
Story
Appointed as a servant-leader in the growing Jerusalem church.
Confronted opposition from the Synagogue of the Freedmen.
Falsely accused of blasphemy and brought before the Sanhedrin.
His face shone like an angel as he testified about God's plan.
Saw the heavens open and Jesus standing at God’s right hand.
Died with forgiveness on his lips — inspiring others, including Saul (Paul).
Spiritual Significance
- One of the first seven deacons chosen to serve the church (Acts 6:1–6).
- Described as full of faith, grace, and power.
- Performed signs and wonders and preached with boldness.
- Gave a powerful speech recounting Israel’s history and accusing religious leaders of resisting the Spirit.
- Stoned to death while praying for his enemies — echoing Jesus' own forgiveness on the cross.
Christ Connection
Stephen’s martyrdom echoes Christ’s crucifixion — forgiving his enemies as Jesus did.
His vision of Jesus affirms Christ’s role as exalted Son of Man and righteous Judge.
His death propelled the church’s mission beyond Jerusalem, fulfilling Acts 1:8.
What We Can Learn
- Faithful witness to Christ may lead to suffering.
- The Holy Spirit empowers believers to speak with courage and clarity.
- Forgiveness, even in death, displays the love of Christ.
- Seeds of revival often grow through sacrifice.
Memory Verses
Lord, do not hold this sin against them.
— Acts 7:60Behold, I see the heavens opened, and the Son of Man standing at the right hand of God.
— Acts 7:56
Key Passages
- Acts 6–7
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