STEPHEN (Acts 6:5, 8, 15)

STEPHEN (Acts 6:5, 8, 15)

And they chose Stephen, a man full of faith and the Holy Spirit (Acts 6:5).

And Stephen, full of faith [grace] and power did great wonders and signs among the people (Acts 6:8)

And all who sat in the council, looking steadfastly at him, saw his face as the face of an angel (Acts 6:15).

Stephen radiated the holiness and glory of God.

Both in life and in death, Stephen was so much like His Lord. Jesus was filled with the Spirit, so was Stephen. Jesus was full of grace, so was Stephen. Jesus boldly confronted the religious establishment of His day, so did Stephen. Jesus was convicted by lying witnesses, so was Stephen. Jesus had a mock trial, so did Stephen. Jesus was executed though innocent of any crime, so was Stephen. Both were accused of blasphemy. Both died outside of the city and were buried by sympathizers. Both prayed for the salvation of their executioners. Was there ever a man more like Jesus?

JOHN MacARTHUR – ACTS 1-12

Chapters 15 –Page 196; 17 – Page 226

THE MacARTHUR NEW TESTAMENT COMMENTARY

©1994 John MacArthur