​The inclusion of Gentiles in Christianity represented a major and controversial shift in the early Church that changed the perception and acceptance of God's chosen people. For centuries, Judaism maintained a strong distinction between Jews and Gentiles, viewing the latter as outsiders to God's covenant. However, Acts 10 marks a pivotal moment in which God makes it clear that salvation through Jesus Christ is available to all, regardless of ethnic or cultural background. This chapter focuses on the interaction between Peter, a devout Jew and leader among the apostles, and Cornelius, a Roman centurion who was deeply religious but not fully converted to Judaism. Through divine visions and the outpouring of the Holy Spirit, God reveals His plan to extend grace beyond Israel, breaking down centuries-old barriers between Jews and Gentiles. Acts 10 not only fulfills Jesus’ Great Commission but also establishes a new precedent for the universality of the gospel, shaping the future of Christianity as an inclusive faith. Today’s message explores the historical context, key events, and theological implications of Acts 10, highlighting its impact on the development of Christianity.

This chapter highlights the moment when God extends His grace to the Gentiles, fulfilling the Great Commission by bringing the gospel to "all the ends of the earth" (Acts 1:8). The events in this chapter unfold in Caesarea, a seaport on the Mediterranean coast. Caesarea was named after Caesar Augustus and served as an important hub for Roman administration and trade. In this setting, God orchestrated a divine encounter between the Apostle Peter and a Roman centurion, signaling the inclusion of the Gentiles into the community of believers.

God’s chosen vessel for this change was Cornelius, a man described in verse 2 as devout and God-fearing. Cornelius was a centurion, a commander of 100 men in the Italian Regiment. Although he was not a full convert to Judaism, he was a "proselyte of the gate," meaning he worshipped the God of Israel and followed some Jewish practices but had not undergone full conversion. Cornelius's household shared in his devotion, showcasing the influence of his faith. He was also known for his generosity, giving alms to the needy, and he was a man of prayer. His good reputation among the Jews paved the way for God’s intervention in his life.

Acts 10

The Encounter
Cornelius was engaged in prayer at the ninth hour (3:00 PM), one of the traditional Jewish prayer times. During this time, he had a vision in which an angel appeared and instructed him to send men to Joppa to find Peter and bring him back to Caesarea. In obedience, Cornelius chose two of his servants and a devout soldier to carry out the task. This act of faith demonstrated Cornelius’s willingness to follow divine instruction despite not fully understanding what lay ahead.

Peter’s Vision
Meanwhile, Peter was engaged in prayer at an unusual time—noon. As he prayed, he became hungry and fell into a trance, experiencing a vision that would challenge his deeply held beliefs. In the vision, Peter saw something resembling a large sheet descending from heaven, filled with various animals, including those considered unclean by Jewish dietary laws. A voice instructed him, "Rise, kill, and eat." Holding firmly to Jewish law, Peter refused, stating that he had never eaten anything common or unclean. However, the voice rebuked him, saying, "Do not call anything impure that God has made clean." This exchange occurred three times, emphasizing its divine significance.

Peter's vision was not merely about food; it was a lesson about God's acceptance of the Gentiles. Just as God declared unclean animals clean, He was now declaring that no person should be considered impure or unworthy of salvation. Cornelius’s men would soon confirm this revelation by arriving at Simon’s house, seeking Peter’s presence in Caesarea.

The Visitation
As Peter pondered the vision, the Holy Spirit urged him to accompany the men who had arrived. Peter’s gesture of hospitality in inviting the Gentile men to stay with him represented a significant step forward in breaking down Jewish-Gentile barriers. This illustrated an early acceptance of God’s unfolding plan to include all people in His salvation.

Peter Meets Cornelius
Upon arriving at Cornelius’s house, Peter was greeted with reverence as Cornelius fell at his feet in worship. However, Peter quickly corrected him, insisting that he was merely a man and should not be worshipped. Peter then shared the interpretation of his vision, explaining that God had revealed to him that no person should be considered common or unclean. This was a radical realization, challenging the Jewish belief that Gentiles were outside of God’s covenant. Peter affirmed that God is impartial and accepts anyone who fears Him and does what is right (Acts 10:34-35).

Peter’s Speech
Peter then proclaimed the gospel message to Cornelius and his household, emphasizing:

• The work of Christ.
• The anointing of the Holy Spirit.
• The death and resurrection of Christ.
• His role as a witness to the resurrection.
• The command to preach the gospel.

This declaration emphasized the inclusivity of God’s salvation plan, which was not confined to the Jews but extended to all who have faith in Christ.

The Holy Spirit Given to the Gentiles
As Peter spoke, the Holy Spirit descended upon Cornelius and his household. This event mirrored the Pentecost experience as the Gentiles began to speak in tongues and praise God. This undeniable evidence of the Spirit’s work compelled Peter and the Jewish believers with him to recognize that salvation was truly for everyone. In response, Cornelius and his household were baptized, marking their official entrance into the family of God.

Application
Acts 10 offers several valuable lessons for believers today, and we can gain from these teachings.

1. The Importance of Prayer God communicated with both Cornelius and Peter through visions during their prayer times, demonstrating how He actively guides those who seek Him with sincere hearts. Cornelius regularly prayed and gave to the poor. While in prayer, he received a vision from an angel instructing him to send for Peter. This highlights how God hears the prayers of those who genuinely seek Him, even if they are outside the traditional faith community.
   
   At the same time, Peter also received a vision while in prayer. His vision of a sheet filled with unclean animals, along with God's command to "kill and eat," challenged his understanding of Jewish dietary laws and signified that God's salvation was for all people, not just the Jews. This moment of divine revelation prepared Peter to embrace the inclusion of Gentiles in God's plan of redemption.
   
   These parallel visions emphasize the importance of prayer as a means of divine communication. Through prayer, both Cornelius and Peter positioned themselves to receive God's direction, demonstrating that seeking God opens the door for His guidance and revelation. Their experiences also illustrate God's sovereignty in orchestrating events, ensuring that His will is accomplished in perfect timing. This passage encourages believers to cultivate a life of prayer, trusting that God speaks, leads, and reveals His purposes to those who diligently seek Him.
   
   
2. Judging Rightly – Peter initially resisted the vision because it challenged his beliefs. However, instead of outright rejecting it, he took time to reflect and seek understanding. This teaches us the importance of spiritual discernment and reliance on the Holy Spirit when determining what is from God. Sometimes, God's guidance may not align with our expectations; instead of reacting based on personal biases, we should pause, pray, and seek confirmation. Peter’s obedience to the Spirit’s leading ultimately helped him understand God's greater plan, reminding us to be cautious and discerning in our judgments.
   
   
3. God’s Unconventional Ways – God often utilizes unexpected methods to fulfill His will, challenging human assumptions and broadening understanding. Jewish believers struggled to accept that Gentiles could also receive salvation. Peter’s vision and the pouring out of the Holy Spirit on Cornelius and his household demonstrated that God's plan transcended cultural and religious boundaries. This moment revealed that salvation was not confined to a specific group but was available to all who believed in Christ. Just as the early believers had to set aside their preconceptions and embrace God’s greater purpose, we, too, must trust that His ways are higher than ours, even when they challenge our expectations.
   
   
4. Salvation for All – The central message of this passage is that salvation is available to anyone who believes in faith, regardless of their ethnicity, nationality, or background. Peter’s encounter with Cornelius was a pivotal moment in the early church, showing that God’s grace extends beyond the Jewish people to all who seek Him. This truth aligns with Titus 2:11-14, which states, “For the grace of God has appeared, bringing salvation to all men.” The vision Peter received and the pouring out of the Holy Spirit on the Gentiles confirmed that God does not show favoritism but welcomes everyone who comes to Him in faith. This passage serves as a powerful reminder that redemption is not based on heritage or works but is a gift freely given to all who accept Christ as Lord and Savior.

Conclusion
Acts 10 is a powerful reminder of how God breaks down barriers and calls us to a deeper understanding of His love. In this chapter, we see Cornelius, a Roman centurion who genuinely seeks God, and Peter, an apostle who must confront his own biases. Cornelius’s faith and prayers show us that God hears those who sincerely seek Him, no matter their background. Meanwhile, Peter’s vision challenges him to move beyond his preconceived notions and obey God’s leading, even when it feels uncomfortable or unfamiliar.

This passage speaks directly to our lives today. How often do we, like Peter, allow our assumptions or traditions to limit how we see others? God calls us to step beyond our comfort zones, to welcome those who are different from us, and to recognize that His love knows no boundaries. Just as Peter had to trust God and take a bold step of faith, we, too, are invited to listen to His voice and be part of His plan to reach all people.

Acts 10 challenges us to ask: Where is God calling me to break down barriers? Who in my life might I be overlooking or excluding? Am I willing to let go of my own comfort and be obedient to His direction? Just as the gospel transformed Cornelius’s household, God wants to work through us to bring His love and salvation to those around us. All He asks is that we be open, willing, and obedient.

Among the key figures in the early church, the Apostle Peter stands out as an individual who experienced transformation through the power of the Holy Spirit. Acts 9:32-43 shows us this transformation from a disciple ashamed of Jesus to a man of great faith and power. Today’s passage highlights Peter’s ministry, miraculous healings, and unwavering faith in Christ. This passage not only reveals the power of God working through Peter but also demonstrates the overarching theme of transformation, redemption, and purpose in the life of a believer.

Peter’s Journey of Transformation
Before delving into the events of this passage, it is important to understand Peter’s spiritual journey. Peter was a fisherman when Jesus called him to be a disciple. Throughout the Gospels, Peter is portrayed as passionate and impulsive. He was the disciple who boldly declared Jesus as the Christ (Matthew 16:16), yet he also denied Him three times before His crucifixion (Luke 22:61-62). This failure marked a turning point in Peter’s life. Following Jesus’s resurrection, Peter was restored and recommissioned by Jesus (John 21:15-17), leading to his role as a foundational leader in the early church.

On the day of Pentecost, Peter was filled with the Holy Spirit and became a bold proclaimer of the Gospel. He preached powerfully, healed the sick, and performed miracles, demonstrating that he was no longer the man who once denied Christ out of fear. Instead, he was transformed into a courageous apostle, fully surrendered to the mission of spreading the Gospel.

Acts 9:23 - 42
 
Healing Aeneas: A Demonstration of God’s Power
Acts 9:32-35 describes Peter’s visit to Lydda, where he encountered a man named Aeneas, who had been paralyzed for eight years. Peter, filled with the Spirit, declared, “Jesus Christ heals you. Get up and roll up your mat.” Immediately, Aeneas was healed. This miraculous healing was not merely an act of compassion but a demonstration of God’s power through Peter. The result of this miracle was a spiritual awakening in Lydda and Sharon, where many people turned to the Lord.

The healing of Aeneas mirrors the healings performed by Jesus during His earthly ministry. Just as Jesus healed the paralytic man in Capernaum (Mark 2:1-12), Peter’s miracle in Lydda affirmed that the same power of God was at work through him. This event illustrates that Peter was now walking in the same authority and calling as Christ, fulfilling the commission given to him.

The Raising of Tabitha: A Testament to Faith
Following this miracle, Peter was summoned to Joppa, where a beloved disciple named Tabitha (also known as Dorcas) had passed away. Tabitha was known for her good works and acts of charity, particularly in serving the widows of her community. Her death caused great sorrow among the believers, and they sent for Peter, hoping he could do something.

Upon arrival, Peter was led to the upper room where Tabitha’s body lay. The mourning widows showed him the garments she had made, emphasizing the impact of her life. Peter sent everyone out of the room, knelt in prayer, and said, “Tabitha, get up.” Immediately, she opened her eyes, sat up, and was presented alive to the believers. This miracle led to widespread faith in Joppa, as many people came to believe in the Lord.

This resurrection account closely resembles Jesus’ raising of Jairus’ daughter (Mark 5:35-43). The parallels between Peter’s actions and Jesus’ ministry highlight that Peter was fully operating under the guidance and power of the Holy Spirit. It was not Peter himself performing the miracle but God working through him, bringing life where there was death and hope where there was despair.

Lessons from Peter’s Ministry
The events of Acts 9:32-43 provide several key lessons for believers today.

1. God Uses Ordinary People for Extraordinary Purposes
   Peter was an ordinary fisherman before Jesus called him. His transformation into a bold preacher and miracle worker was not due to his ability but to the power of the Holy Spirit. This demonstrates that God can use anyone who is willing to surrender to His calling.
   
   
2. Faith and Prayer Are Essential in the Christian Life
   Before raising Tabitha, Peter prayed earnestly. His reliance on prayer shows that miracles are not performed through human strength but through faith and dependence on God. This serves as a reminder that believers must cultivate a prayerful life and trust in God’s power rather than their efforts.
   
   
3. Miracles Lead to Faith and Revival
   Many people turned to the Lord after Aeneas’s healing and Tabitha's resurrection. These miracles were not performed for personal gain but to glorify God and advance His kingdom. When believers walk in faith and obedience, God’s power can be displayed in ways that draw others to Him.
   
   
4. No One is Beyond God’s Redemption
   From denying Christ to leading the early church, Peter's journey shows that no one is too far gone for God to use. Like Paul’s story from last week and Peter’s story this week, we see God’s grace and transformative power in full force. Just as Peter was restored and given a new purpose, God can restore and use anyone who turns to Him in faith.
   
   
5. Good Works Are Evidence of Faith
   Tabitha’s life was marked by charity and service to others. Her good works were an outward demonstration of her faith. This aligns with the teaching in James 2:17, which states that “faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead.” Believers are called to live out their faith through acts of kindness and service to others.

 
The Ongoing Work of the Holy Spirit
The miracles Peter performed illustrate the Holy Spirit's ongoing work in the early church. Just as Jesus performed miracles, His disciples, empowered by the Spirit, continued His ministry. These acts of healing and resurrection were not just historical events but reminders that God’s power is still at work today.
The Holy Spirit continues to transform lives, empower believers, and work through those who are surrendered to Him. The same Spirit that raised Christ from the dead and worked through Peter is available to all believers today (Romans 8:11). This means that God still calls ordinary people to do extraordinary things for His glory.

Conclusion
This passage highlights Peter’s transformation from a fearful disciple to a bold leader in the church. His healing of Aeneas and the resurrection of Tabitha showcase God’s power at work through him. These miracles led many to faith and reinforced the truth that God uses ordinary people to accomplish extraordinary things.

Peter’s life is a testament to God’s grace, redemption, and purpose. His story reminds us that no one is beyond God’s reach, that faith and prayer are essential, and that good works are evidence of a transformed life. As believers today, we are called to walk in the power of the Holy Spirit, serve others, and trust in God’s ability to use us for His glory.
​
The message remains the same: God can and does use various people to do extraordinary things when His Spirit empowers them. As we reflect on Peter’s journey, may we be encouraged to surrender our lives fully to God, allowing Him to work through us to bring healing, restoration, and hope to the world around us.

Introduction
Sola gratia—grace alone. This Latin phrase summarizes one of the most insightful theological truths of the Christian faith. Grace: God's unmerited favor shown to undeserving humanity. Without grace, there would be no hope, redemption, or salvation. Grace is not just a beautiful word; it is the foundation upon which the Christian faith rests. The Apostle Paul understood the doctrine of grace better than most. His transformation from Saul, the persecutor of Christians, to Paul, the devoted apostle of Christ, is a powerful testimony to the power of divine grace.

Paul’s writings, especially Ephesians 2:8, affirm this fundamental doctrine: "God saved you by his grace when you believed. And you can’t take credit for this; it is a gift from God." Paul, who once sought to destroy the early Church, became its most passionate defender and missionary. However, before he could share the message of grace with others, he first had to experience it himself in the most dramatic way—on the road to Damascus.

Saul of Tarsus: The Persecutor
Before his conversion, Paul was known as Saul of Tarsus. Born a Jew in the city of Tarsus, Saul was raised in a devout Jewish household and was educated under Gamaliel, one of the most respected Pharisaic scholars of the time (Acts 22:3). Saul was a zealous follower of the Law and an ambitious Pharisee who saw Christianity as a dangerous threat to Judaism. His opposition to Christianity was so intense that he became one of its chief persecutors, imprisoning and even consenting to the deaths of believers.

In Acts 7, we first encounter Saul as he stands approvingly at the stoning of Stephen, the first Christian martyr. His zeal for the Jewish faith fueled his belief that the followers of Jesus were heretics, deserving of punishment. 

Acts 9:1 - 17

By the time we reach Acts 9, Saul had escalated his campaign against the Church, securing letters from the high priest to arrest Christians in Damascus and bring them back to Jerusalem in chains. His goal was clear: to eliminate the movement known as "The Way."

The Damascus Road EncounterAs Saul traveled toward Damascus, determined to carry out his mission, an event occurred that would forever change his life. 

In an instant, Saul was confronted with the reality that the very one he opposed—Jesus—was indeed the risen Lord. This divine encounter was not just a moment of correction; it was a moment of grace. Rather than condemning Saul, Jesus extended an invitation to transformation.

Saul was left blind for three days, symbolizing both his spiritual blindness and the coming illumination he would soon receive. During this time, he neither ate nor drank, fasting in what must have been deep reflection and repentance.

Ananias and Saul’s Baptism
God then called a disciple named Ananias to go to Saul and restore his sight. Understandably hesitant, Ananias knew Saul’s reputation and feared what might happen. Saul had been a notorious persecutor of Christians, and for Ananias, approaching him required great faith and obedience. However, the Lord reassured him that he was God’s chosen man for the job ahead. (Acts 9:15). This commissioning emphasized God's sovereign plan for Saul’s life, showing that even those who seem to be enemies of the faith can be transformed into powerful vessels for His glory.

Obedient to God's command, Ananias overcame his fear and went to Saul. Upon arrival, he placed his hands on him and said, “Brother Saul, the Lord Jesus, who appeared to you on the road, has sent me so that you might regain your sight and be filled with the Holy Spirit.” (Acts 9:17). Addressing Saul as "Brother" was a significant act, showing immediate acceptance into the Christian community. Despite Saul’s past actions, Ananias recognized the work of God in his life and extended fellowship to him.

Immediately, something like scales fell from Saul’s eyes, and he could see again. This physical healing mirrored the spiritual transformation that was taking place within him. The blindness he had experienced was not just a physical affliction but a symbolic representation of his spiritual blindness. With his sight restored, he was also given a new vision and purpose in Christ. He was then baptized, publicly affirming his new faith in Jesus. Baptism marked a turning point, signifying the washing away of his old life and the beginning of his mission as an apostle of Christ. Afterward, he took food to regain his strength, preparing for the journey ahead as a devoted follower of Jesus.

This moment was pivotal not only for Saul but also for the early Church. It demonstrated the boundless reach of God's grace and the power of transformation. If a man like Saul, who had violently opposed Christianity, could be redeemed and used mightily by God, then no one was beyond the reach of His mercy. The encounter between Ananias and Saul is a powerful reminder that God often calls His followers to extend grace even to those who seem least deserving, trusting in His greater plan for redemption and restoration.

The Transformation of Paul
The man who had once been Christianity’s greatest enemy was now its most passionate advocate. Saul, now known as Paul, spent the rest of his life proclaiming the gospel of grace, writing letters that would form nearly one-third of the New Testament, and enduring persecution for the sake of Christ. His radical transformation is one of the greatest testimonies to the power of God's grace.

Paul’s conversion was not just a change of heart but a complete redirection of his entire life. Before encountering Jesus, he was zealous in his opposition to Christianity, believing he was defending the Jewish faith against blasphemy. However, after experiencing the grace of God firsthand, he redirected that same zeal toward spreading the message of salvation through Christ. His missionary journeys took him across the Roman Empire, where he preached in synagogues, marketplaces, and before rulers, facing rejection, imprisonment, and suffering for the gospel's sake.

His transformation was marked by a deep theological understanding of grace, which became central to his teachings. He emphasized that salvation was a gift from God, not something earned through works, and tirelessly worked to establish churches and mentor young believers. 
Paul’s life and ministry demonstrate that no one is beyond the reach of God’s saving grace. If the chief persecutor of Christians could become the greatest missionary of all time, then God's grace truly knows no bounds. His story is a powerful reminder that God can use anyone to fulfill His divine purposes regardless of their past. Even in the face of suffering and eventual martyrdom, Paul's unwavering commitment to Christ remains an enduring testament to the transforming power of grace.

Theological Implications of Paul’s Conversion
Paul’s conversion is not merely an inspiring story; it carries deep theological significance. First, it underscores God's sovereignty in salvation. Saul was not seeking Christ—he was actively opposing Him. Yet, Jesus intervened, demonstrating that salvation is not based on human effort but divine initiative.

Second, it illustrates the doctrine of justification by faith. Paul later wrote in Romans 3:23-24, " For everyone has sinned; we all fall short of God’s glorious standard. Yet God, in his grace, freely makes us right in his sight. He did this through Christ Jesus when he freed us from the penalty for our sins." His life was a testament to this truth; he was not saved by his works but by faith in the grace of Jesus Christ.

Finally, Paul’s conversion highlights the gospel's inclusivity. As a Pharisee, Saul believed in a strict separation between Jews and Gentiles. Yet, God called him to be the apostle to the Gentiles, breaking down barriers and affirming that salvation is available to all people, regardless of background (Galatians 3:28).

Application for Believers Today

1. Paul’s story calls us to examine our own lives and recognize that, like Saul, we too are recipients of God's unmerited grace. None of us can earn salvation; it is a gift freely given. This truth should lead us to humility and gratitude, reminding us that our relationship with God is not based on merit but on His boundless mercy. Just as Paul had to relinquish his former life and embrace a new identity in Christ, we must continually surrender to God's will and live in the freedom of His grace.
2. It reminds us not to write anyone off as beyond redemption. If God could transform a persecutor like Saul, He can change the hardest of hearts today. We are called to extend grace to others just as God has extended it to us. This means approaching others with love, patience, and a belief in their potential for change. Too often, we judge others based on their past mistakes, but Paul’s life is a testament to the fact that God’s grace is greater than any sin. As believers, we should embody that grace in how we treat and forgive others.
3. Paul’s life encourages us to live boldly for Christ. Once he encountered Jesus, Paul was never the same. He dedicated his life to sharing the gospel, enduring hardship, imprisonment, and martyrdom. His example challenges us to stand firm in our faith, regardless of the cost. In a world that often opposes Christ, we are called to remain steadfast, spreading the message of Christ with courage and conviction. Whether in our workplaces, schools, or communities, we must be willing to proclaim the gospel's truth, just as Paul did, despite opposition or challenges.
   
   

ConclusionPaul's conversion is one of the most remarkable examples of God's grace in Scripture. His transformation from a zealous persecutor to a devoted apostle demonstrates that salvation is entirely God's work. It also powerfully reminds us that no one is too far gone to be saved.

As believers, we are called to embrace the grace given to us and extend that grace to others. Paul's story is not just his own; it is the story of every Christian saved by God's unmerited favor. May we, like Paul, respond to that grace with gratitude, humility, and a passion to share the gospel with the world.

​Introduction
If you lived during the 1960s or 1970s, you likely encountered Bob Dylan’s iconic song, “Rainy Day Women #12 & 35,” often mis-titled “Everybody Must Get Stoned.” This unusual, bluesy tune, featuring a lively brass band and Dylan’s distinctive voice, captured the spirit of the era. The lyrics begin with, “Well, they’ll stone ya when you’re trying to be so good. They’ll stone ya just a-like they said they would. They’ll stone ya when you’re tryin’ to go home. Then they’ll stone ya when you’re there all alone. But I would not feel so all alone. Everybody must get stoned.” quickly becoming a cultural touchstone.

At that time, the song resonated deeply with the counterculture of the 1960s and 70s. In an era of free love, psychedelic exploration, and rebellion against authority, it was embraced as an anthem. Many interpreted it as a celebration of drug use, especially due to the repeated refrain. In fact, radio stations in the U.S. and Britain banned the song out of concern for its perceived drug references. However, a closer examination of the song reveals something more nuanced. Some believe Dylan was satirizing the cultural panic over drug references in music or mocking critics who overanalyze every word of rock lyrics. Others suggest the song reflects Dylan’s personal struggles, such as his difficulties with relationships or the pressures of fame.

Why bring up this song? Because it serves as a symbolic entry point for today’s discussion—“getting stoned” in a spiritual sense. The phrase gains a new, profound meaning when we reflect on the story of Stephen, the first Christian martyr, whose tragic yet triumphant death is recounted in Acts 6:8–7:60. This pivotal moment in Christian history illustrates the growing hostility faced by the early church and the lengths to which its opponents would go to suppress the Gospel. Just as the refrain of Dylan’s song suggests an inevitable shared experience, Stephen’s story reminds us that suffering and persecution are part of the Christian journey.

Acts 6:8 -15, 7:51 - 60

The Context of Stephen’s Story
Stephen’s martyrdom occurs at a critical moment in the early church. Following Jesus’s death and resurrection, the apostles had been spreading the Gospel with fervor, gaining many followers. However, this rapid growth also attracted opposition from the Jewish religious leaders, who saw the movement as a threat to their authority. Initially, their opposition took the form of verbal threats, but it quickly escalated to physical violence. By the time we reach Stephen’s story, their desperation had led them to commit murder in an attempt to silence the message of Christ.

Stephen is introduced in Acts as a man of exceptional character. He was one of the seven Hellenistic Jews chosen to serve as deacons—a role focused on ministering to widows and addressing the needs of the growing Christian community. Acts 6:5 describes him as “a man full of faith and of the Holy Spirit.” He was also known for his wisdom, spiritual grace, and reliance on God’s power, which enabled him to perform miracles and speak with authority. His life reflected the transformative power of the Gospel, making him a respected and admired figure within the early church.

However, Stephen’s faith and boldness also attracted enemies. Acts 6:9-10 recounts how some members of the synagogue began to argue with him but found themselves unable to counter his wisdom and the Spirit’s power. Frustrated, they resorted to deceit, persuading false witnesses to accuse Stephen of blasphemy against Moses, the law, and the temple—serious charges in Jewish society.

Stephen’s Defense and Sermon
When Stephen was brought before the Sanhedrin, the highest Jewish council, the accusations against him were severe. Yet even in this moment of intense pressure, Stephen remained composed. Acts 6:15 notes that his face appeared “like the face of an angel.” While the exact meaning of this description is unclear, it likely signifies the presence of God’s Spirit, enabling Stephen to remain calm and unwavering in the face of false accusations.

Instead of defending himself directly, Stephen seized the opportunity to deliver a powerful sermon. His speech, recorded in Acts 7, is the longest in the book and serves as a sweeping overview of Israel’s history, highlighting key figures such as Abraham, Joseph, Moses, and David. Through this retelling, Stephen emphasized God’s faithfulness to His people and the repeated pattern of their rebellion against Him. His sermon was not a defense but a bold proclamation of truth, challenging the religious leaders to see their own spiritual blindness.

Stephen’s message focused on three key points, which R. Kent Hughes refers to as “the false bases for their confidence in God”: the land, the law, and the temple.

1. The Land
   The Israelites took great pride in possessing the Promised Land, seeing it as a sign of God’s favor. However, Stephen reminded them that God’s blessings were not limited to a specific geographical area. He pointed to figures like Abraham, who was called by God while living in Mesopotamia, and Joseph, who received God’s favor while in Egypt. The land was a gift from God, but it was never intended to define their relationship with Him.
   
   In many ways, this misplaced confidence in the land reflects attitudes today. Some Americans, for instance, perceive their nation’s prosperity and power as evidence of God’s special favor. While it’s true that God has blessed America, such blessings do not ensure His endorsement or approval. Our confidence should be grounded in God Himself, not in our national identity or achievements.
2. The LawThe law was a cornerstone of Jewish identity, but Stephen argued it could not save anyone. He noted that even Moses, who received the law, anticipated the arrival of the Messiah who would establish a new covenant. The law served as a guide, not a means of salvation. Throughout history, the prophets pointed to a future where God’s relationship with His people would surpass the limitations of the law.
   
   Today, many people similarly place their confidence in morality or good deeds, believing that being a “good person” will earn them favor with God. While living a moral life is important, it cannot secure salvation. Ephesians 2:8-9 reminds us, “It is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works, so that no one can boast.”
3. The TempleFinally, Stephen challenged the leaders’ belief that the temple was God's exclusive dwelling place. Quoting Isaiah 66:1, he declared, “Heaven is my throne, and the earth is my footstool. What kind of house will you build for me?” God’s presence is not confined to a building. This was a radical statement, as the temple was central to Jewish worship and identity. Stephen’s words pointed to a deeper truth: God dwells in the hearts of believers, not in man-made structures.
   
   In modern Christianity, we sometimes fall into a similar trap, placing undue importance on church buildings or institutions. While these can be tools for ministry, they are not the essence of our faith. God’s true temple is the body of believers united in Christ.
   
   

The Martyrdom of Stephen
Stephen’s message was bold, convicting, and deeply offensive to the religious leaders. Acts 7:54 describes how they were “furious” and “gnashed their teeth at him.” Their rage reached a boiling point when Stephen shared a vision of heaven, declaring, “I see heaven open and the Son of Man standing at the right hand of God” (Acts 7:56). This statement, affirming Jesus’s divine authority, was the final straw. The leaders dragged Stephen out of the city and stoned him to death.

Stoning was brutal and deliberate, reflecting the leaders’ intense hatred and desperation. Yet even in his final moments, Stephen demonstrated extraordinary grace. He prayed for his executioners, saying, “Lord, do not hold this sin against them” (Acts 7:60), echoing Jesus’s words on the cross.

Acts 7:55-56 provides an image of Jesus standing at the right hand of God—a departure from the usual depiction of Him seated. Many interpret this as a gesture of honor and welcome as if Christ were rising to receive Stephen into glory.

Lessons for Today
Stephen’s story has implications for us. It reminds us that suffering is an integral part of the Christian life. While we may not face physical persecution, we are not exempt from trials, opposition, or rejection for our faith. As Paul wrote in 2 Timothy 3:12, “Everyone who wants to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted.” Here are some “takeaways” for us this morning.

• Embrace Suffering as Part of the Christian Life – Stephen’s story reminds us that suffering is inevitable for those who follow Christ. Instead of fearing trials or opposition, we should view them as opportunities to grow in faith and deepen our relationship with Christ.
  
  Suffering, though difficult, deepens our relationship with Christ and strengthens our witness to others. As R. Kent Hughes notes, “Suffering deepens our tie with Christ, and it also enhances our effectiveness in ministry, especially the ministry of evangelism. Evangelism provokes persecution, while persecution energizes evangelism.”
  
  
• Remain Bold and Faithful in the Face of Adversity – Like Stephen; we are called to stand firm in our faith, even when faced with rejection or hardship. Our confidence should rest in Christ alone, not worldly security or approval.
  
  In a culture that often seeks to avoid pain, we must remember that trials are opportunities for spiritual growth. Stephen’s example challenges us to remain bold and faithful, trusting in God’s strength even in adversity. His story also reminds us to place our confidence in Christ alone, not our nationality, morality, or institutions.
  
  
• Find Strength and Joy in Sharing Christ’s Suffering – Rather than avoiding discomfort, we should recognize that suffering for the Gospel is a privilege that strengthens our witness. Knowing that our ultimate reward is eternal life with Christ should encourage us to persevere joyfully.
  
  ​Let us draw inspiration from Stephen’s unwavering faith and pray for the courage to stand firm in the Gospel. May we embrace the joy and privilege of sharing in Christ’s suffering, knowing that our ultimate reward is eternal life with Him. As Stephen’s life and death so powerfully demonstrate, the glory of God far outweighs any trial we may face on earth.