In today’s reading from Acts of the Apostles (Acts 7:51‑8:1), we hear about the murder of St. Stephen, the first martyr killed for proclaiming the Good News of Christ. But who was St. Stephen?
“As the number of disciples continued to grow, the Greek-speaking Christians complained against the Hebrew-speaking Christians, saying that their widows were being neglected in the daily distribution. So the Twelve called together the community of the disciples and said, ‘It is not right for us to neglect the word of God to serve at table. Brothers, select from among you seven reputable men, filled with the Spirit and wisdom, whom we shall appoint to this task, whereas we shall devote ourselves to prayer and to the ministry of the word.’ The proposal was acceptable to the whole community . . .” (Acts 6:1-5).
Stephen was one of those seven chosen to serve. Stephen was a man filled with grace and power, who worked great wonders among the people. The apostles laid hands on these people and ordained them as the first deacons.
Acts of the Apostles says that Certain Jews, members of the Synagogue of Roman Freedmen, debated with Stephen, but proved no match for the wisdom and spirit with which he spoke. Ultimately, his enemies resorted to lies, making a charge of blasphemy against him. They seized him and carried him before the Sanhedrin.
Stephen remained calm and collected. In his speech, Stephen recalled God’s guidance through Israel’s history, as well as Israel’s idolatry and disobedience. He then claimed that his persecutors were showing this same spirit. “…you always oppose the holy Spirit; you are just like your ancestors” (Acts 7:51). Stephen’s speech brought anger from the crowd. They threw him out of the city and began to stone him. Stephen remained faithful to the end, crying out, “Lord Jesus, receive my spirit.” He knelt and begged God to forgive those who were killing him.
Saul (St. Paul), while not actually participating in the stoning of Stephen, was among the crowd who witnessed Stephen’s martyrdom.
Fulgentius of Ruspe, a fifth-century bishop, wrote about Stephen’s martyrdom:
“Love was Stephen’s weapon by which he gained every battle, and so won the crown signified by his name. His love of God kept him from yielding to the ferocious mob; his love for his neighbor made him pray for those who were stoning him. Love inspired him to reprove those who erred, to make them amend; love led him to pray for those who stoned him, to save them from punishment. … Love, indeed, is the source of all good things; it is an impregnable defense, and the way that leads to heaven.”
Stephen died as Jesus did: falsely accused, brought to unjust condemnation because he spoke the truth without fear. He died with his eyes fixed on God, and with a prayer of forgiveness on his lips. He died with courage, total trust in God, and forgiving love.
May God Bless You and Grant You His Peace!