I read the story of Stephen (Acts 6:8 – 8:3), how he spoke with wisdom and power, infuriated the Sanhedrin, who rushed him out of the city and stoned him to death. He died a martyr’s death, and was probably the first recorded Christian martyr. We honor the man for his love for Jesus and his boldness in speaking the truth.
But I reflect and I wonder what the whole point was? He went through a long narration of salvation history before a critical audience who was listening more to accuse him rather than to understand him. Not only did his career as a preacher and his life end that very day. But the bible says that on that same day “there broke out a severe persecution of the church in Jerusalem” . . . perhaps the first ever. It’s as if his stubborn proclamation meant nothing but trouble for the fledgling Christian church.
What do you think? Was Stephen a success or a failure? Please, share your thoughts below.
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