Stephen was the first Christian martyr, although James the Great was the first Apostle to die for the faith. Stephen was also one of the first seven deacons chosen in the Church. The name Stephen signifies a crown, and is Greek.
Scripture tells us that Stephen “full of grace and power” did great wonders and signs among the people, but his teaching outraged the Jews and they accused him of blasphemy. During his speech to the Jewish council, “his face was like the face of an angel” but the Jews became enraged and ground their teeth. When Stephen looked up into the heavens and proclaimed that he saw the Son of Man standing at the right hand of God, that was all the Jews could stand. At that point they grabbed him, and dragged him out of the city to stone him. As he was being stoned, he prayed, Lord Jesus, receive my spirit.” Then he cried, “Lord, do not hold this sin against them” and then he died. (Acts 7:8-60)
Lessons
Stephen’s death brought widespread persecution in Jerusalem and caused the Christians to disperse, taking the Gospel to other cities and towns and spreading it around the world. Like the death of Jesus, Stephen’s death was salvation for many souls who might not have heard the Gospel had the Christians not dispersed and carried the message of salvation around the world.
Prayer
Lord, we thank you for St. Stephen and the great example he gave to others in the way he died. St. Stephen’s willingness to die for his faith showed great courage and love for You and brought many others to salvation. Amen.
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