Stephen

Stephen is referred to as the first martyr of the Church. His willingness to give up his life for the sake of the gospel is a lesson and challenge for the modern Church on how to die well. Even as he was being stoned to death, he forgave his executioners. But Stephen’s character and testimony prior to his execution provide very important lessons for us on how to live well. Acts 6:5, 6:8, and 6:10 describe Stephen as a man full of faith, wisdom, the Holy Spirit, God’s grace, and power who performed great wonders and signs among the people as he spoke the irrefutable message of God.