Acts 6 & 7: God’s Yardstick – Stephen
God’s Grace and Energy
Paolo Uccello: Stoning of St Stephen
Monday, January 30, 2023
We may or may not know the story of Stephen, the martyr stoned for acting with and speaking about the healing power of Christ. Once the full impact of this story settles on us, we might hope that the Spirit not inspire us. We might wish to shed the power of God’s wisdom rather than ask that it dwell within. It is likely that the trials are not as severe as Stephen’s; yet gossip in the home or workplace can break the spirit just as stones break bones. Severe illness, economic and natural disasters, slander, bullying and fear can bring an end to life. Stephen’s reaction to his enemies gives us a measuring stick for our own actions.
If we look only quickly at these chapters, we might at first believe that the lives of all true Christians must come to a frightening end. When we look more closely to find clues in the details, we uncover what it means to live a life brimming with God’s grace and energy. No matter our persecution, no matter the place or time of our trial, Stephen’s yardstick serves as a stark measure of God’s love in our lives.
6:7: The Word of God prospered. The number of disciples in Jerusalem increased dramatically. Not least, a great many priests submitted themselves to the faith.
When we experience God’s presence, we can expect envy and anger from others. Like Stephen, we must persist in gentleness and honesty.
6:8: Stephen, brimming with God’s grace and energy, was doing wonderful things among the people, unmistakable signs that God was among them.
When we witness God’s presence, we can expect dishonesty and deceit from others. Like Stephen, we must persist in courage and hope.
6:11: In secret [Stephen’s enemies] bribed men to lie [against him].
When we live in God’s presence, we can expect fear and anger from others. Like Stephen, we must persist in patience and love.
When we meet obstacles brought on by avarice, resentment and rage, we might consider the power we find in gentleness, honesty, patience, courage, hope and love. These traits will appear weak to the foolish, but in reality they are manifestations of God’s grace and energy, God’s enduring and healing love.
If we do not have time to spend with Chapters 6 and 7 of Acts, we might focus on Acts 6:8-10 and 7:54-59.
Tomorrow, the Gospel writers.
Image from: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Paolo_Uccello_-_Stoning_of_St_Stephen_-_WGA23196.jpg
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