Day 73 – The First Martyr – Acts 6:8-8:8
Stephen is the first martyr. The word actually means “witness”, so from the start of the church there is a sense that the ultimate witness is to give one’s life for Christ.
Notice how Stephen knows the Hebrew scripture. This is a great example of why it is important for us to know scripture as well. How can we speak of God’s story if we do not know the story?
Saul, later known as Paul is also introduced at this point. If his life can be transformed, how much can God transform our own life as well?
In Christ,
Randy
Stephen Truly knew God. First we must know God, then we must desire to love God, then through this love we must learn about His love for us and what He desires us to do. We must observe how he has worked through others and watch how Christ acted toward His Father. Then we must begin to act as Christ acted. As our relationship with Christ & the Father grows the Holy Spirit boldly proclaims through us that we are HIS. The Holy Spirit gives us power to do and say what we couldn't say or do without Him. This is what we see in Stephen. This is what others should see in us. OH! LORD give us the power to give you Glory and Praise and the Faith & Obedience of Stephen so our church can proclaim you Lord and Savior through out Washington, PA , US & the world and let it begin this Easter week. Amen.
ReplyDelete