Scripture
37 “This is the Moses who told the Israelites, ‘God will raise up for you a prophet like me from your own people.’
Reflection
Stephen gets arrested by being falsely accused of speaking against Moses and against God (Acts 6:11). This arrest would eventually lead to his death.
When facing the Council for his defense Stephen boldly proclaimed the Word of God, using passages that were well-known to the rabbis. It’s in the midst of his defense that he mentions Moses’ prophecy of a prophet coming from Israel – a prophetic word about Jesus Christ.
It is humbling and challenging to read about Stephen’s testimony, who until the end didn’t try to simply defend himself, but to proclaim the truth and with boldness call out those who were resisting the Holy Spirit (7:51). Stephen knew God’s Word well and knew in what and Who he believed in.
We shouldn’t be surprised if we also suffer persecution as Christ-followers, but when we are challenged – can we stand firm in His Word and know in what and Who we believe in?
Thoughts for the day
- What does this passage tell you about God or Jesus?
- What does this passage tell you about humanity?
- What do you feel God is telling you through this passage?
- How can you apply this message in an area of your life that needs transformation?
- Is there anyone you think should hear or will benefit from this message? Go and tell them.
Prayer
Identify anything that is making you weary or burdened and give it back to God. You might like to physically represent this by clinching your hands then opening them.
