Stephen Summoned before Synagogue Leaders

Acts 6:8–15
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Up to this point, the sign gifts seem to have been administered only by the apostles, but now we find Stephen, a newly appointed deacon, also demonstrating these extraordinary powers. Apparently his ministry was primarily among the Hellenistic Jews, referred to here as the “Libertines” (vv. 8-9). This group engaged Stephen in hot debate over the Messiahship of Jesus and the importance of temple worship. (The Jews would see these two matters as a threat to their whole religious system). However, nobody was able to match or resist Stephen’s wisdom and power (v. 10).

1. These were the men who heard God’s command, and were not afraid to obey it.

2. Stephen insisted that men had worshiped God long before there ever was a Temple. To the Jews the Temple was the most sacred of all places.
3. He insisted that when the Jews crucified Jesus they were only setting the stage on a policy they had always followed.

Application

What is the worst lie anybody has ever told about me? As I see how Stephen handled his opponents, which of his qualities do I feel I need the most? Lord, help me to acquire it.