16/10/2022 [Book of Acts 33]                                                                                                              www.lifechurchmissions.com

The Defence of Stephen (8): The Martyrdom and Glory of Stephen

Introduction:

* Stephen’s martyrdom revealed two kinds of extremes:

⟹ Those who killed others because of the gospel, and those who were being killed for the sake of the gospel

⟹ Portrayal of hell and heaven

⟹ How those whose sins are forgiven and those whose sins are not forgiven look like

* We have no right to judge others’ sins, but we can only commit those who offend and persecute us to the Lord

* Let the Lord heap burning coals on their heads ⟹ Repent or face judgment

Read <Ac 7:54-60>

1. <v54> The people were furious and gnashed their teeth at Stephen

* The looks of people in hell were revealed

* They were furious at hearing the gospel truth and gnashed their teeth

* When all of men’s sins are exposed, they either humble down and repent, or turn evil and murderous

2. <v55> Stephen who was full of the Holy Spirit

* He was full of the Holy Spirit when he was debating – Full of wisdom, courage and power

* He was full of the Holy Spirit when being persecuted – Saw the glory of Christ

* The glory of a martyr

3. <v56> Stephen saw Jesus and testified about it

4. <v57> The people’s angry reactions

5. <v58> The people used stones to kill Stephen

6. <v59> Only a blessed person could ask the Lord to receive his spirit

7. <v60> Stephen’s prayer: “Lord, do not hold this sin against them.”

1）What is the greatest and amazing miracle?

2）Was Stephen’s prayer answered?

3）Stephen fell asleep!