Acts 7:44-8:1
Reflect
Did you know that there have been more martyrs in the twentieth century than all previous nineteen centuries? This is astonishing as it challenges the notion that martyrdom rises from ancient or medieval times and practices. There have been countless Stephens, and there will be many more. As we’ve seen through Scripture and history, “…the blood of martyrs is indeed the seed of the church.”
In our modern day, we view Stephen’s courage as admirable at an arm’s length. It’s an honourable and deathly example that most of us are unable to even fathom. Although we are not all called to be martyrs, we are called to testify to the living God, and witness to those around us.
We might be thinking that we are unable to have the courage and faith that Stephen had – that was a gift. But in the same way Stephen recognized that God does not dwell in the houses made by hands, we also know that God dwells freely and openly in the heart of His people. Which means, the same God that enabled Stephen to be courageous and faithful to his beliefs is made available to us through Jesus Christ.
Apply
How can you lean into what the Holy Spirit is saying to you today?
Pray for opportunities to share the gospel to those around you.
Pastor Nathanael
Pray
- Pray for our Childcare staff, the children and their families this week. Pray for the Director, Kristy Thomas.
- Pray for our Audio/Visual Director, Grant Mix.
- Pray for our Lead Team Pastor, Terry Okken and his family.