Some deaths end movements. Others ignite them.
Stephen was a young deacon—one of seven men chosen to wait on tables and care for widows. He wasn’t an apostle. He wasn’t a prominent teacher. He was simply a servant full of faith and the Holy Spirit.
But when Stephen stood before the Jewish council and declared that he saw “heaven open and the Son of Man standing at the right hand of God” (Acts 7:56), the religious establishment could take no more. They dragged him outside the city and stoned him to death—making him Christianity’s first martyr.
Yet Stephen’s death was not a defeat. It was a catalyst.
The young man holding the coats of those who stoned Stephen—Saul of Tarsus—would later become the Apostle Paul, haunted by Stephen’s words and transformed by Stephen’s forgiveness. The persecution that followed Stephen’s death scattered believers throughout the known world, turning them into missionaries. The blood of this first martyr became, as church father Tertullian later wrote, “the seed of the church.”
This is the story of Stephen—the deacon who became a martyr, whose death echoed Jesus’ crucifixion, and whose sacrifice launched the greatest missionary movement in history.
Who Was Stephen? More Than Just a Deacon
Chosen Among the Seven
The early church faced a crisis. Greek-speaking Jewish widows were being neglected in the daily distribution of food (Acts 6:1). The apostles needed help, so they instructed the church to choose seven men to handle this practical ministry.
The qualifications were clear:
“Brothers and sisters, choose seven men from among you who are known to be full of the Spirit and wisdom. We will turn this responsibility over to them.” — Acts 6:3 (NIV)
Stephen was chosen first:
“This proposal pleased the whole group. They chose Stephen, a man full of faith and of the Holy Spirit; also Philip, Procorus, Nicanor, Timon, Parmenas, and Nicolas from Antioch, a convert to Judaism.” — Acts 6:5 (NIV)
Notice the order: Stephen is named first, suggesting he was the most prominent among the seven.
“Full of Faith and the Holy Spirit”
Stephen’s primary qualification wasn’t ability—it was character:
- Full of faith — He trusted God completely
- Full of the Holy Spirit — He was controlled and empowered by God
Spiritual maturity mattered more than managerial skill.
A Hellenistic Jew with a Prophetic Voice
Stephen was a Hellenistic Jew—a Greek-speaking Jew from the diaspora (Jews living outside Israel). This gave him a broader perspective on God’s purposes beyond the temple and the land of Israel.
His Greek name “Stephanos” means “crown” or “wreath”—a prophetic name, as he would receive the martyr’s crown (Revelation 2:10).
Stephen’s Qualifications: What Made Him Stand Out
Full of Grace and Power
Though chosen to wait on tables, Stephen’s ministry exceeded expectations:
“Now Stephen, a man full of God’s grace and power, performed great wonders and signs among the people.” — Acts 6:8 (NIV)
Stephen wasn’t content with just serving food. He was:
- Full of grace — Unmerited favor and divine enablement
- Full of power — Supernatural ability
- Performing great wonders and signs — Miraculous works confirming the Gospel
Faithful in small things, God gave him great things.
Wisdom That Could Not Be Resisted
Stephen’s opponents couldn’t match his intellect:
“But they could not stand up against the wisdom the Spirit gave him as he spoke.” — Acts 6:10 (NIV)
This wasn’t human wisdom—it was Spirit-given insight that left his critics speechless.
A Face Like an Angel
As Stephen stood before the Sanhedrin (the Jewish high council), something supernatural happened:
“All who were sitting in the Sanhedrin looked intently at Stephen, and they saw that his face was like the face of an angel.” — Acts 6:15 (NIV)
His face glowed with divine presence—perhaps echoing Moses’ radiant face after encountering God (Exodus 34:29-35).
The Conflict: When Service Led to Persecution
Opposition from the Synagogue
Members of the Synagogue of the Freedmen (likely former slaves who had been freed) began to argue with Stephen:
“Opposition arose, however, from members of the Synagogue of the Freedmen (as it was called)—Jews of Cyrene and Alexandria as well as the provinces of Cilicia and Asia—who began to argue with Stephen.” — Acts 6:9 (NIV)
Note: This synagogue included members from Cilicia—the same region where Saul of Tarsus was from (Acts 21:39). It’s highly likely that young Saul witnessed Stephen’s debates.
False Accusations and Lies
Unable to defeat Stephen through argument, his opponents resorted to lies:
“Then they secretly persuaded some men to say, ‘We have heard Stephen speak blasphemous words against Moses and against God.’ So they stirred up the people and the elders and the teachers of the law. They seized Stephen and brought him before the Sanhedrin. They produced false witnesses, who testified, ‘This fellow never stops speaking against this holy place and against the law.'” — Acts 6:11-13 (NIV)
The Charge: Blasphemy Against Moses and God
The accusations were deliberately twisted:
- Stephen supposedly spoke against the temple (“this holy place”)
- Stephen supposedly spoke against the law of Moses
In reality, Stephen proclaimed that Jesus fulfills the temple and the law—a message his accusers saw as blasphemy.
Echoes of Jesus’ Trial
The parallels to Jesus’ trial are striking:
- False witnesses (Matthew 26:59-60)
- Accusations about destroying the temple (Matthew 26:61)
- Appearance before the Sanhedrin
- Charge of blasphemy
Stephen was following in his Master’s footsteps.
Stephen’s Defense: The Longest Sermon in Acts
Not a Defense, But a Prophetic Indictment
When asked, “Are these charges true?” (Acts 7:1), Stephen didn’t offer a defense. Instead, he delivered a prophetic sermon that spans 52 verses (Acts 7:2-53)—the longest speech in Acts.
A Survey of Israel’s History
Stephen walked through Israel’s story:
- Abraham (Acts 7:2-8) — Called by God before the temple existed
- Joseph (Acts 7:9-16) — Rejected by his brothers, yet God’s chosen deliverer
- Moses (Acts 7:17-43) — The great deliverer rejected by Israel, yet sent by God
- The Tabernacle and Temple (Acts 7:44-50) — God doesn’t dwell in buildings made by human hands
- The Prophets (Acts 7:51-53) — Israel’s pattern of rejecting God’s messengers
The Pattern of Rejection
Stephen’s point was clear: Israel has a history of rejecting God’s messengers:
“Was there ever a prophet your ancestors did not persecute? They even killed those who predicted the coming of the Righteous One. And now you have betrayed and murdered him.” — Acts 7:52 (NIV)
“You Always Resist the Holy Spirit”
Stephen’s climactic accusation was devastating:
“You stiff-necked people! Your hearts and ears are still uncircumcised. You are just like your ancestors: You always resist the Holy Spirit! Was there ever a prophet your ancestors did not persecute?” — Acts 7:51-52 (NIV)
This was not a defense—it was an indictment.
Wisdom Beyond His Years
Stephen’s sermon demonstrated:
- Deep knowledge of Scripture
- Theological insight into God’s purposes
- Courage to speak truth to power
- Prophetic boldness that feared God more than man
The Vision: Heaven Opened
“I See Heaven Open”
As the council gnashed their teeth in rage, Stephen received a vision:
“But Stephen, full of the Holy Spirit, looked up to heaven and saw the glory of God, and Jesus standing at the right hand of God. ‘Look,’ he said, ‘I see heaven open and the Son of Man standing at the right hand of God.'” — Acts 7:55-56 (NIV)
Jesus Standing, Not Sitting
Throughout Scripture, Jesus is described as seated at God’s right hand (Mark 16:19, Hebrews 1:3). But here, Jesus is standing.
Why?
Possible meanings:
- Standing to welcome His faithful martyr home
- Standing as a witness in Stephen’s defense
- Standing to receive Stephen’s spirit
- Standing in honor of Stephen’s sacrifice
Jesus rose to His feet for Stephen.
The Son of Man at God’s Right Hand
Stephen’s claim echoed Jesus’ own words at His trial:
“But I say to all of you: From now on you will see the Son of Man sitting at the right hand of the Mighty One and coming on the clouds of heaven.” — Matthew 26:64 (NIV)
For the Sanhedrin, this was the final blasphemy. They had condemned Jesus for this claim—now they would condemn Stephen.
The Stoning: Christianity’s First Martyr
Dragged Outside the City
The council’s response was violent rage:
“At this they covered their ears and, yelling at the top of their voices, they all rushed at him, dragged him out of the city and began to stone him.” — Acts 7:57-58 (NIV)
Covering their ears was a symbolic rejection of blasphemy. They literally refused to hear more.
Stoning had to occur outside the city (Leviticus 24:14, Numbers 15:35)—just as Jesus was crucified outside the city gate (Hebrews 13:12).
The Coats at Saul’s Feet
A chilling detail:
“Meanwhile, the witnesses laid their coats at the feet of a young man named Saul.” — Acts 7:58 (NIV)
Saul of Tarsus—the future Apostle Paul—was present, approving of Stephen’s execution.
The witnesses removed their coats to stone Stephen unhindered. Saul, likely a young Pharisee and member of the Sanhedrin, guarded their garments.
He didn’t throw stones, but he held the coats of those who did.
“Lord Jesus, Receive My Spirit”
Stephen’s first prayer echoed Jesus’ words from the cross:
“While they were stoning him, Stephen prayed, ‘Lord Jesus, receive my spirit.'” — Acts 7:59 (NIV)
Compare with Jesus:
“Jesus called out with a loud voice, ‘Father, into your hands I commit my spirit.'” — Luke 23:46 (NIV)
“Lord, Do Not Hold This Sin Against Them”
Stephen’s final words were stunning forgiveness:
“Then he fell on his knees and cried out, ‘Lord, do not hold this sin against them.’ When he had said this, he fell asleep.” — Acts 7:60 (NIV)
Compare with Jesus:
“Jesus said, ‘Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing.'” — Luke 23:34 (NIV)
Stephen died as Jesus died—forgiving his murderers.
Echoing Jesus’ Words from the Cross
The parallels are intentional:
| Jesus | Stephen |
|---|---|
| “Father, into your hands I commit my spirit” | “Lord Jesus, receive my spirit” |
| “Father, forgive them…” | “Lord, do not hold this sin against them” |
| Crucified outside the city | Stoned outside the city |
| False accusations | False accusations |
| Vision of glory (Transfiguration) | Vision of heaven open |
Stephen’s death was a mirror of Christ’s.
The Aftermath: From Stephen’s Death to Paul’s Conversion
Saul’s Approval
The text makes Saul’s complicity clear:
“And Saul approved of their killing him.” — Acts 8:1 (NIV)
Saul wasn’t a passive observer—he consented to Stephen’s murder.
Great Persecution Begins
Stephen’s death unleashed violent persecution:
“On that day a great persecution broke out against the church in Jerusalem, and all except the apostles were scattered throughout Judea and Samaria… But Saul began to destroy the church. Going from house to house, he dragged off both men and women and put them in prison.” — Acts 8:1, 3 (NIV)
Scattering as a Missionary Strategy
What seemed like defeat became advancement:
“Those who had been scattered preached the word wherever they went.” — Acts 8:4 (NIV)
Persecution scattered the seed of the Gospel across the Roman Empire.
The Seed of Paul’s Conversion
Stephen’s words and death haunted Saul:
- His face like an angel
- His vision of Jesus standing
- His prayer for forgiveness
- His peaceful death
Years later, Paul would recall:
“When the blood of your martyr Stephen was shed, I stood there giving my approval and guarding the clothes of those who were killing him.” — Acts 22:20 (NIV)
Stephen’s forgiveness planted the seed of Paul’s conversion.
Stephen’s Death Was Not in Vain
From Stephen’s martyrdom came:
- The scattering that spread the Gospel
- The seed that became Paul’s conversion
- The pattern for Christian martyrdom
- The proof that the Gospel is worth dying for
Stephen’s Theological Contributions
Jesus as the Ultimate Temple
Stephen argued that God doesn’t dwell in buildings:
“However, the Most High does not live in houses made by human hands.” — Acts 7:48 (NIV)
Jesus is the true temple (John 2:19-21). Believers are the temple (1 Corinthians 6:19). The church is God’s dwelling place (Ephesians 2:21-22).
The Gospel Transcends Geography
Stephen’s sermon showed that God’s work began outside Israel (with Abraham in Mesopotamia) and would continue beyond Israel through the scattered church.
Critique of Institutionalized Religion
Stephen challenged the idea that religious systems (temple, priesthood, rituals) were ultimate. He pointed to relationship with God through Jesus.
The Universal Scope of God’s Plan
Stephen prepared the way for the Gentile mission by showing that God’s plan was never limited to one nation or place.
The Legacy of Stephen: What the First Martyr Teaches Us
Faithfulness Over Safety
Stephen could have compromised. He could have softened his message. He chose truth over survival.
Forgiveness in the Face of Hatred
Even as stones crushed his body, Stephen prayed for his killers. Forgiveness is the Christian’s weapon.
The Power of a Good Death
Stephen’s death preached louder than his sermons. How you die matters.
Your Witness May Impact Your Persecutor
Stephen forgave Saul. Saul became Paul. Your greatest enemy may become your brother.
Comparing Stephen and Jesus: Parallel Sufferings
False Accusations
Both faced lies from religious leaders desperate to silence truth.
Claim to See the Son of Man
Both declared they saw divine glory—a claim deemed blasphemous.
Prayer for Forgiveness
Both asked God to forgive their murderers.
Committing Their Spirits
Both entrusted their spirits to God as they died.
Stephen’s death was a participation in Christ’s sufferings.
The Martyr’s Crown: Understanding Christian Martyrdom
What Is a Martyr?
The Greek word martys means “witness.” A martyr is someone who witnesses to truth even unto death.
The Witness Unto Death
Jesus promised:
“Be faithful, even to the point of death, and I will give you life as your victor’s crown.” — Revelation 2:10 (NIV)
Stephen received the martyr’s crown—his very name means “crown.”
“The Blood of the Martyrs Is the Seed of the Church”
Church father Tertullian (AD 155-220) wrote: “The blood of the martyrs is the seed of the church.”
Persecution doesn’t destroy the church—it spreads it.
Martyrdom Throughout Church History
From Stephen to today:
- Early church — Thousands died under Roman persecution
- Medieval period — Reformers burned at the stake
- Modern era — More Christians martyred in the 20th/21st centuries than all previous centuries combined
Stephen was the first, but not the last.
Life Lessons from Stephen’s Sacrifice
Serve Faithfully in Small Things First
Stephen started by serving tables. God promoted him to signs and wonders. Faithfulness in the ordinary leads to the extraordinary.
Speak Truth Even When It Costs Everything
Stephen could have been diplomatic. He chose to be prophetic. Truth matters more than safety.
Die Well to Live Forever
Stephen fell asleep in death, but woke up in glory. Physical death is the gateway to eternal life.
Your Death May Birth Another’s Destiny
Stephen’s martyrdom planted the seed of Paul’s conversion. Your sacrifice may launch someone else’s calling.
For Those Facing Persecution Today: Stephen’s Message
If you face persecution for your faith:
- Remember Stephen’s face — God’s presence will sustain you
- Remember Stephen’s vision — Heaven is open; Jesus sees and stands for you
- Remember Stephen’s prayer — Forgiveness is your greatest power
- Remember Stephen’s peace — He “fell asleep,” not in terror but in trust
- Remember Stephen’s legacy — Your faithfulness will bear fruit you may never see
Jesus promised:
“Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me. Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you.” — Matthew 5:11-12 (NIV)
Frequently Asked Questions About Stephen the Martyr
1. Why is Stephen called the “first martyr”? He was the first Christian to be killed for his faith in Jesus Christ, making him the proto-martyr (first witness).
2. How old was Stephen when he died? The Bible doesn’t say, but tradition suggests he was a young man, likely in his 20s or early 30s.
3. Did Stephen’s stoning violate Roman law? Yes. Under Roman occupation, the Sanhedrin didn’t have authority to execute (John 18:31). Stephen’s stoning was likely a mob action or occurred during a power vacuum.
4. What happened to Stephen’s body? Acts 8:2 says: “Godly men buried Stephen and mourned deeply for him.” Tradition places his burial in Jerusalem.
5. Why did Jesus stand instead of sit at God’s right hand? Scholars suggest Jesus stood to welcome Stephen home, to testify on his behalf, or to honor his sacrifice.
6. Did Saul/Paul ever express regret for Stephen’s death? Yes. Paul later mentioned it with remorse (Acts 22:20, 26:10), acknowledging his role in Stephen’s murder.
7. Is there a Feast Day for Saint Stephen? Yes. December 26 (the day after Christmas) is St. Stephen’s Day in many Christian traditions.
Conclusion: The Crown He Wore in Death
Stephen’s name meant “crown.” He wore it well.
He was crowned with:
- The crown of service — A faithful deacon
- The crown of power — Performing signs and wonders
- The crown of wisdom — Spirit-given insight
- The crown of vision — Seeing heaven open
- The crown of forgiveness — Praying for his killers
- The crown of martyrdom — The first to die for Jesus
But most importantly, he received:
“The crown of life, which the Lord has promised to those who love him.” — James 1:12 (NIV)
Stephen’s death was not the end—it was the beginning.
Beginning of:
- The scattered church becoming a missionary movement
- Saul’s conscience being pricked toward conversion
- Christian martyrdom as a witness to the world
- Heaven’s reception of the faithful unto death
If Stephen could speak to us today, he would say:
“Be faithful. Even unto death. Jesus is standing. Heaven is open. And forgiveness is your greatest power.”
The first martyr’s message echoes through the ages: A life poured out for Christ is never wasted.
“Precious in the sight of the LORD is the death of his faithful servants.” — Psalm 116:15
To live is Christ. To die is gain.
Amen. 🙏👑