The First Martyr

Scripture:

Acts 6:8-8:8

Synopsis:

Steven was a man of wisdom. Impossible to beat in a debate. And a threat to the religious “status quo” of the day. So false witnesses spoke against him and he was brought before The Council. When given the opportunity to speak, Steven gave a moving and yet logical speech about the history of his people (which the religious leaders of the day would appreciate). Steven ended his speech, however, with words of rebuke for the religious leaders. As a result, they became angry and took him outside the city and stoned him. Steven’s last words were a prayer for God to forgive his murderers. Following Steven’s death, persecution arose against the early church in Jerusalem and the first Christians were scattered throughout Judea and Samaria.

Spark:

God tried to get the religious leaders’ attention. They were more interested in their religion, however, than they were in loving God and people.

Jesus came to restore relationship between us and Him. Are you focused on a relationship with Jesus? Or on religious tradition?