Good morning,

Acts 8 showcases how God can use even persecution to spread His word. It reminds us of the transformative power of the Gospel, its availability to everyone, and the importance of genuine belief. Philip’s unwavering obedience, the openness of the Ethiopian eunuch, and the striking correction of Simon the sorcerer all serve to underscore the extraordinary growth and challenges of the early church.

Acts 8:5-40

Then Philip opened his mouth, and began at the same scripture, and preached unto him Jesus. (Acts 8:35)

Philip’s Ministry and Simon the Sorcerer (v4-25) 

Philip preaches in Samaria (v5-8)

⁵ Then Philip went down to the city of Samaria, and preached Christ unto them.⁶ And the people with one accord gave heed unto those things which Philip spake, hearing and seeing the miracles which he did.⁷ For unclean spirits, crying with loud voice, came out of many that were possessed with them: and many taken with palsies, and that were lame, were healed.⁸ And there was great joy in that city.

Philip’s ministry to Simon the sorcerer and Peter’s rebuke of Simon the sorcerer(v9-25)

Simon believes (v9-13)

⁹ But there was a certain man, called Simon, which beforetime in the same city used sorcery, and bewitched the people of Samaria, giving out that himself was some great one:¹⁰ To whom they all gave heed, from the least to the greatest, saying, This man is the great power of God.¹¹ And to him they had regard, because that of long time he had bewitched them with sorceries.¹² But when they believed Philip preaching the things concerning the kingdom of God, and the name of Jesus Christ, they were baptized, both men and women.¹³ Then Simon himself believed also: and when he was baptized, he continued with Philip, and wondered, beholding the miracles and signs which were done.

Simon’s rebuke by Peter (v14-25)

¹⁴ Now when the apostles which were at Jerusalem heard that Samaria had received the word of God, they sent unto them Peter and John:¹⁵ Who, when they were come down, prayed for them, that they might receive the Holy Ghost:¹⁶ (For as yet he was fallen upon none of them: only they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus.)¹⁷ Then laid they their hands on them, and they received the Holy Ghost.¹⁸ And when Simon saw that through laying on of the apostles’ hands the Holy Ghost was given, he offered them money,¹⁹ Saying, Give me also this power, that on whomsoever I lay hands, he may receive the Holy Ghost.²⁰ But Peter said unto him, Thy money perish with thee, because thou hast thought that the gift of God may be purchased with money.²¹ Thou hast neither part nor lot in this matter: for thy heart is not right in the sight of God. ²² Repent therefore of this thy wickedness, and pray God, if perhaps the thought of thine heart may be forgiven thee.²³ For I perceive that thou art in the gall of bitterness, and in the bond of iniquity.²⁴ Then answered Simon, and said, Pray ye to the Lord for me, that none of these things which ye have spoken come upon me.²⁵ And they, when they had testified and preached the word of the Lord, returned to Jerusalem, and preached the gospel in many villages of the Samaritans.

Those scattered preach the word wherever they go. Particularly, Philip goes to Samaria, where he preaches Christ and performs miracles, bringing joy to the city. Many Samaritans believe and are baptized, including Simon, a man formerly known for sorcery. Seeing the apostles Peter and John bestow the Holy Spirit through the laying on of hands, Simon offers money to possess this power, leading to Peter’s stern rebuke.(Bible Hub chapter summary Acts 8)

Philip witnesses to the Ethiopian Eunuch (v26-40)

Philip sent (v26-27)

²⁶ And the angel of the Lord spake unto Philip, saying, Arise, and go toward the south unto the way that goeth down from Jerusalem unto Gaza, which is desert.²⁷ And he arose and went: and, behold, a man of Ethiopia, an eunuch of great authority under Candace queen of the Ethiopians, who had the charge of all her treasure, and had come to Jerusalem for to worship,

Philip’s witness (v28-40)

²⁸ Was returning, and sitting in his chariot read Esaias the prophet.²⁹ Then the Spirit said unto Philip, Go near, and join thyself to this chariot.³⁰ And Philip ran thither to him, and heard him read the prophet Esaias, and said, Understandest thou what thou readest?³¹ And he said, How can I, except some man should guide me? And he desired Philip that he would come up and sit with him.³² The place of the scripture which he read was this, He was led as a sheep to the slaughter; and like a lamb dumb before his shearer, so opened he not his mouth:³³ In his humiliation his judgment was taken away: and who shall declare his generation? for his life is taken from the earth.³⁴ And the eunuch answered Philip, and said, I pray thee, of whom speaketh the prophet this? of himself, or of some other man?³⁵ Then Philip opened his mouth, and began at the same scripture, and preached unto him Jesus.³⁶ And as they went on their way, they came unto a certain water: and the eunuch said, See, here is water; what doth hinder me to be baptized?³⁷ And Philip said, If thou believest with all thine heart, thou mayest. And he answered and said, I believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God.³⁸ And he commanded the chariot to stand still: and they went down both into the water, both Philip and the eunuch; and he baptized him.³⁹ And when they were come up out of the water, the Spirit of the Lord caught away Philip, that the eunuch saw him no more: and he went on his way rejoicing.40 But Philip was found at Azotus: and passing through he preached in all the cities, till he came to Caesarea.

An angel of the Lord directs Philip to the road from Jerusalem to Gaza, where he encounters an Ethiopian eunuch, a court official and a man of authority. Philip explains Isaiah’s prophecy that the eunuch was reading, leading to the eunuch’s baptism and conversion. Subsequently, the Spirit takes Philip away, and he continues to preach the Gospel in other towns. (Bible Hub chapter summary Acts 8)

Acts 8 presents the expansion of the Gospel beyond Jerusalem, driven largely by persecution. It introduces us to Philip’s successful ministry in Samaria, the account of Simon the sorcerer, and the significant conversion of the Ethiopian eunuch. The chapter offers a multifaceted view of the early church’s experience: persecution, miracles, conversions, and challenges. (Bible Hub chapter summary Acts 8)

Tom Stearns, WASI Chaplain, 907 715-4001 chaplain@alaskaseniors.com

Good morning,

Acts 8 showcases how God can use even persecution to spread His word. It reminds us of the transformative power of the Gospel, its availability to everyone, and the importance of genuine belief. Philip’s unwavering obedience, the openness of the Ethiopian eunuch, and the striking correction of Simon the sorcerer all serve to underscore the extraordinary growth and challenges of the early church.

Acts 8:5-40

Then Philip opened his mouth, and began at the same scripture, and preached unto him Jesus. (Acts 8:35)

Philip’s Ministry and Simon the Sorcerer (v5-25) 

Simon’s rebuke by Peter (v14-25)

¹⁴ Now when the apostles which were at Jerusalem heard that Samaria had received the word of God, they sent unto them Peter and John:¹⁵ Who, when they were come down, prayed for them, that they might receive the Holy Ghost:¹⁶ (For as yet he was fallen upon none of them: only they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus.)¹⁷ Then laid they their hands on them, and they received the Holy Ghost.¹⁸ And when Simon saw that through laying on of the apostles’ hands the Holy Ghost was given, he offered them money,¹⁹ Saying, Give me also this power, that on whomsoever I lay hands, he may receive the Holy Ghost.²⁰ But Peter said unto him, Thy money perish with thee, because thou hast thought that the gift of God may be purchased with money.²¹ Thou hast neither part nor lot in this matter: for thy heart is not right in the sight of God. ²² Repent therefore of this thy wickedness, and pray God, if perhaps the thought of thine heart may be forgiven thee.²³ For I perceive that thou art in the gall of bitterness, and in the bond of iniquity.²⁴ Then answered Simon, and said, Pray ye to the Lord for me, that none of these things which ye have spoken come upon me.²⁵ And they, when they had testified and preached the word of the Lord, returned to Jerusalem, and preached the gospel in many villages of the Samaritans.

Those scattered preach the word wherever they go. Particularly, Philip goes to Samaria, where he preaches Christ and performs miracles, bringing joy to the city. Many Samaritans believe and are baptized, including Simon, a man formerly known for sorcery. Seeing the apostles Peter and John bestow the Holy Spirit through the laying on of hands, Simon offers money to possess this power, leading to Peter’s stern rebuke.(Bible Hub chapter summary Acts 8)

Tom Stearns, WASI Chaplain, 907 715-4001 chaplain@alaskaseniors.com

Good morning,

Acts 8 showcases how God can use even persecution to spread His word. It reminds us of the transformative power of the Gospel, its availability to everyone, and the importance of genuine belief. Philip’s unwavering obedience, the openness of the Ethiopian eunuch, and the striking correction of Simon the sorcerer all serve to underscore the extraordinary growth and challenges of the early church.

Acts 8:5-40

Then Philip opened his mouth, and began at the same scripture, and preached unto him Jesus. (Acts 8:35)

Philip’s Ministry and Simon the Sorcerer (v5-25) 

Philip preaches in Samaria (v5-8)

⁵ Then Philip went down to the city of Samaria, and preached Christ unto them.⁶ And the people with one accord gave heed unto those things which Philip spake, hearing and seeing the miracles which he did.⁷ For unclean spirits, crying with loud voice, came out of many that were possessed with them: and many taken with palsies, and that were lame, were healed.⁸ And there was great joy in that city.

Philip’s ministry to Simon the sorcerer and Peter’s rebuke of Simon the sorcerer(v9-25)

Simon believes (v9-13)

⁹ But there was a certain man, called Simon, which beforetime in the same city used sorcery, and bewitched the people of Samaria, giving out that himself was some great one:¹⁰ To whom they all gave heed, from the least to the greatest, saying, This man is the great power of God.¹¹ And to him they had regard, because that of long time he had bewitched them with sorceries.¹² But when they believed Philip preaching the things concerning the kingdom of God, and the name of Jesus Christ, they were baptized, both men and women.¹³ Then Simon himself believed also: and when he was baptized, he continued with Philip, and wondered, beholding the miracles and signs which were done.

Simon gets saved, baptized, and is following Philip’s ministry. When he sees all the miracles, he wonders how they were all done. He still had a lot to learn. 

His past life will cause him to make a request that the Apostle Peter rebukes.

Tom Stearns, WASI Chaplain, 907 715-4001 chaplain@alaskaseniors.com

Good morning,

Even in the midst of life’s trials, uncertainties, and sorrows 

(Anonymous) LISTEN to audio!  Download Audio

The doctrine of Divine Providence is a profound and comforting truth, that reminds us of God’s sovereign control over all things. This principle assures us that our Heavenly Father is not a distant, unconcerned deity–but rather a loving, all-powerful Creator, who intimately governs all the affairs of His universe, and every detail of our individual lives.

Nothing happens by luck, or chance, or accident–but rather by the wise, good, and purposeful hand of our Almighty Governor. Even in the midst of life’s trials, uncertainties, and sorrows, we can take solace in the knowledge that our steps are ordered by the Lord, that He works all things together for the eternal good of those who love Him, and that His providential care extends to the most insignificant sparrow and the flowers of the field.

Though His ways are incomprehensible, we can trust . . .
  that God’s Providence is perfect,
  that His timing is impeccable, and
  that His plans for us are for our eternal good, and His glory!

As we walk by faith and not by sight, let us continually praise the Lord for His sovereign and loving oversight–resting in the assurance that our lives are safely held in the palm of His almighty hand. Though the future may be uncertain from our limited perspective, we can be certain that our Heavenly Father’s Providence will unfailingly come to pass!

“Oh, the depth of the riches and wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable are His judgments and unfathomable His ways!” Romans 11:33

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Tom Stearns, WASI Chaplain, 907 715-4001 chaplain@alaskaseniors.com

Good morning,

The smallest viper in the nest of your heart!

(Charles Spurgeon, “The Old Man Crucified!”)  LISTEN to audio!  Download Audio

(You will find it helpful to listen to the audio above, as you read the text below.)

Depend upon it, if ever your sins are to die, it must be with the power of Christ. You will find that you cannot kill the smallest viper in the nest of your heart, if you get away from the cross.

There is no death for sin, except in the death of Christ. Stand and look up to His dear wounds, trust in the merit of His blood. If you love Jesus with a perfect heart, then sin killing will not be difficult.

The killing of your sin is not in your power, but if Jesus goes with you, it will be done.

I have known some people struggle against a horrible temper, and they never quite overcame it until they grew into closer communion with Christ.

The mightiest gun to blow down the strongholds of sin within me, is to flee to the cross of Christ!

I am persuaded that nothing but the blood of Jesus will kill sin.

You must get to Christ, nearer to Christ–and you will overcome sin.

Fight with your sins! Hack them in pieces, as Samuel did Agag. Let not one of them escape. Take them as Elijah took the prophets of Baal, and hew them in pieces before the Lord.

Think more of Jesus’ cross, spend more time in contemplation of His blessed person, drink in more of His life, and live more upon Him!

If I had but one sentence that I might utter to you believers, I think I should make it this: live nearer to Christ!  If you get away from your Master, you will be undone.

All virtues flourish, in the atmosphere of the cross.
All vices die, beneath the shade of the cross.

“I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me!” Galatians 2:20

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Tom Stearns, WASI Chaplain, 907 715-4001 chaplain@alaskaseniors.com

Good morning,

The Lamb’s bride!

(Henry Law, 1854)  LISTEN to audio!  Download Audio

(You will find it helpful to listen to the audio above, as you read the text below.)

Revelation 19:7, “Let us rejoice and be glad and give Him glory! For the wedding of the Lamb has come, and His bride has made herself ready!”

Every true Christian is part of the redeemed Church–the Bride, the Lamb’s wife!

She was beloved by the Heavenly Bridegroom before time began, with an unfathomable and immutable love!

She is endowed by Him with all that He has, and with all that He is.

She has a priceless inheritance reserved in Heaven for her–pure and undefiled, beyond the reach of change and decay!

He has placed all the precious  promises as a treasure in her hands.

His providences guide and defend her path.

His righteousness is her beauteous robe, rendering her fit to shine forever in the palace of the heavenly King.

Her seat is prepared beside Him on His throne.

It would exhaust all time to give a brief survey of the glories which adorn her!

Jesus enriches His chosen bride with the best of gifts!
He withholds nothing precious from her.

All of His attributes are her grand inheritance! 

  His wisdom is hers to guide her!

His power is hers to uphold her!

      His love is as the sun to cheer her!

        His faithfulness and truth are her shield and support!

His Spirit is hers, to comfort, to teach, to solace, and to bless her!

His righteousness is hers, to be her spotless robe.

His Heaven is hers, to be her home!

His throne is hers, to be her seat!

His glory is hers, to be her crown!

His eternity is hers, that she may rejoice forever!

“Blessed are those who are invited to the wedding supper of the Lamb!” Revelation 19:9

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Tom Stearns, WASI Chaplain, 907 715-4001 chaplain@alaskaseniors.com

Good morning,

This truth should fill us with a profound sense of awe and reverence!

(Anonymous)  LISTEN to audio!  Download Audio

(You will find it helpful to listen to the audio above, as you read the text below.)

In the book of Isaiah, the prophet delivers a powerful message from the Lord, that speaks to His sovereignty and authority of God over all things in His creation!

In Isaiah 45:7, we read these profound words:
“I form the light and create darkness,
I make peace and create calamity;
I, the Lord, do all these things.”

This verse reminds us of the absolute supremacy of our Almighty God, who is in complete control of everything that transpires in His universe. He is the source of both light and darkness, of peace and calamity. Nothing escapes His divine oversight and purpose.

As believers, this truth should fill us with a profound sense of awe and reverence for the Creator and Governor of our world. It means that even in the midst of life’s most difficult trials and tribulations, we can find solace in knowing that our sovereign God is orchestrating all things according to His perfect will.

The light may give way to darkness, and peace may give way to calamity–but through it all, we can trust that the Lord is working out His eternal plan.

This verse calls us to humbly submit to God’s authority, and to find our refuge in Him alone; for He is the Alpha and the Omega, the Beginning and the End–the One who holds all things in the palm of His hand! As we cling to this truth, it will strengthen our faith, even in the darkest of circumstances.

“And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose!” Romans 8:28

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Tom Stearns, WASI Chaplain, 907 715-4001 chaplain@alaskaseniors.com

Good morning,

Stephen was a mighty man of God. He was faithful and never backed down in the face of opposition. He died proclaiming God’s word. 

Who was Stephen? Who opposed him? What was Stephen’s message? What was the response to Stephen’s message?

Stephen, the High Priest, and the Rebellious

Ye stiffnecked and uncircumcised in heart and ears, ye do always resist the Holy Ghost: as your fathers did, so do ye. (Acts 7:51)

STEPHEN’S DEFENSE: The history of Israel

g) Moses reminds the people of their rebellion and idol worship v37-44

³⁷ This is that Moses, which said unto the children of Israel, A prophet shall the Lord your God raise up unto you of your brethren, like unto me; him shall ye hear.³⁸ This is he, that was in the church in the wilderness with the angel which spake to him in the mount Sinai, and with our fathers: who received the lively oracles to give unto us:³⁹ To whom our fathers would not obey, but thrust him from them, and in their hearts turned back again into Egypt,⁴⁰ Saying unto Aaron, Make us gods to go before us: for as for this Moses, which brought us out of the land of Egypt, we wot not what is become of him.⁴¹ And they made a calf in those days, and offered sacrifice unto the idol, and rejoiced in the works of their own hands. ⁴² Then God turned, and gave them up to worship the host of heaven; as it is written in the book of the prophets, O ye house of Israel, have ye offered to me slain beasts and sacrifices by the space of forty years in the wilderness? ⁴³ Yea, ye took up the tabernacle of Moloch, and the star of your god Remphan, figures which ye made to worship them: and I will carry you away beyond Babylon.⁴⁴ Our fathers had the tabernacle of witness in the wilderness, as he had appointed, speaking unto Moses, that he should make it according to the fashion that he had seen.

h) Joshua Promised Land till David v 45

⁴⁵ Which also our fathers that came after brought in with Joshua into the possession of the Gentiles, whom God drove out before the face of our fathers, unto the days of David;

i) David finds favor with God v 46

⁴⁶ Who found favor before God, and desired to find a tabernacle for the God of Jacob.

j) Temple built by Solomon v 47

⁴⁷ But Solomon built him a house.

k) God does not dwell in temples made by hands v 48-50

⁴⁸ Howbeit the most High dwelleth not in temples made with hands; as saith the prophet,⁴⁹ Heaven is my throne, and earth is my footstool: what house will ye build me? saith the Lord: or what is the place of my rest?⁵⁰ Hath not my hand made all these things?

Stephen goes through the history of Israel and comes to verse 50 with this summation: “HATH NOT MY HAND MADE ALL THESE THINGS?” It was a rhetorical question. Of course God made it all. So then he rebukes his listeners in verses 51-53. 

Who are you following today? Are you God deniers or obedient lovers of the one true God and His Son Jesus Christ? Are you resisting the Holy Ghost or allowing the Holy Ghost to lead and comfort you? 

 l) Stephen’s rebuke for disobedience and death of Jesus v 51-53

⁵¹ Ye stiffnecked and uncircumcised in heart and ears, ye do always resist the Holy Ghost: as your fathers did, so do ye.⁵² Which of the prophets have not your fathers persecuted? and they have slain them which shewed before of the coming of the Just One; of whom ye have been now the betrayers and murderers:⁵³ Who have received the law by the disposition of angels, and have not kept it.

RESPONSE TO STEPHEN’S DEFENSE (Acts 7:54-60)

High Priest, people, elders, and false witnesses v 54, 57-60

a) They were cut to the heart v 54

⁵⁴ When they heard these things, they were cut to the heart, and they gnashed on him with their teeth.

b) Stopped their ears v 55-57

⁵⁵ But he, being full of the Holy Ghost, looked up steadfastly into heaven, and saw the glory of God, and Jesus standing on the right hand of God,⁵⁶ And said, Behold, I see the heavens opened, and the Son of man standing on the right hand of God. ⁵⁷ Then they cried out with a loud voice, and stopped their ears, and ran upon him with one accord,

c) Cast him out of the city and stoned him v 58-59

⁵⁸ And cast him out of the city, and stoned him: and the witnesses laid down their clothes at a young man’s feet, whose name was Saul.⁵⁹ And they stoned Stephen, calling upon God, and saying, Lord Jesus, receive my spirit.

Stephen’s response v 55-56, 59-60

a) Looked up to heaven, saw the glory of God and Jesus standing at the right hand of God v 55-56

⁵⁵ But he, being full of the Holy Ghost, looked up steadfastly into heaven, and saw the glory of God, and Jesus standing on the right hand of God,⁵⁶ And said, Behold, I see the heavens opened, and the Son of man standing on the right hand of God.

b) Call’s unto God to receive his spirit v 59

⁵⁹ And they stoned Stephen, calling upon God, and saying, Lord Jesus, receive my spirit.

c) Cries to God saying “Lay not this sin to their charge.” v 60

⁶⁰ And he kneeled down, and cried with a loud voice, Lord, lay not this sin to their charge. And when he had said this, he fell asleep.

Today we will look at the response to Stephen’s defense of the faith. Life presents us with choices. We can choose to follow righteousness or wickedness, God or Satan, God’s Son Jesus Christ or Satan’s demons outcasts from heaven. Ultimately our decisions determine our eternal destiny. The Jewish religious leaders refused to believe that Jesus was their Messiah. That day they sealed their fate. Their wickedness caused them to choose death rather than life. However, if a person, who has led the wicked lifestyle described here, repents and believes on the Lord Jesus Christ they will be saved and enjoy fellowship with Jesus for all eternity.

CONCLUSION

KNOW YOUR HISTORY

OBEY GOD’S WORD

Tom Stearns, WASI Chaplain, 907 715-4001 chaplain@alaskaseniors.com

Good morning,

Stephen was a mighty man of God. He was faithful and never backed down in the face of opposition. He died proclaiming God’s word. 

Who was Stephen? Who opposed him? What was Stephen’s message? What was the response to Stephen’s message?

Stephen, the High Priest, and the Rebellious

Ye stiffnecked and uncircumcised in heart and ears, ye do always resist the Holy Ghost: as your fathers did, so do ye. (Acts 7:51)

STEPHEN’S DEFENSE: The history of Israel

Exodus v 17-36

a) Pharaoh’s plan to destroy God’s people v 17-19

¹⁷ But when the time of the promise drew nigh, which God had sworn to Abraham, the people grew and multiplied in Egypt,¹⁸ Till another king arose, which knew not Joseph.¹⁹ The same dealt subtilly with our kindred, and evil entreated our fathers, so that they cast out their young children, to the end they might not live.

b) Moses born and raised in Pharaoh’s court for 40 years v 20-22

²⁰ In which time Moses was born, and was exceeding fair, and nourished up in his father’s house three months:²¹ And when he was cast out, Pharaoh’s daughter took him up, and nourished him for her own son.²² And Moses was learned in all the wisdom of the Egyptians, and was mighty in words and in deeds.

c) Moses visits his brethren v 23-28

²³ And when he was full forty years old, it came into his heart to visit his brethren the children of Israel.²⁴ And seeing one of them suffer wrong, he defended him, and avenged him that was oppressed, and smote the Egyptian:²⁵ For he supposed his brethren would have understood how that God by his hand would deliver them: but they understood not.²⁶ And the next day he shewed himself unto them as they strove, and would have set them at one again, saying, Sirs, ye are brethren; why do ye wrong one to another?²⁷ But he that did his neighbor wrong thrust him away, saying, Who made thee a ruler and a judge over us? ²⁸ Wilt thou kill me, as thou didst the Egyptian yesterday?

d) Moses flees to Midian for 40 years v 29

²⁹ Then fled Moses at this saying, and was a stranger in the land of Midian, where he begat two sons.

e) God calls Moses to deliver Israel v 30-34

³⁰ And when forty years were expired, there appeared to him in the wilderness of mount Sinai an angel of the Lord in a flame of fire in a bush. ³¹ When Moses saw it, he wondered at the sight: and as he drew near to behold it, the voice of the Lord came unto him,³² Saying, I am the God of thy fathers, the God of Abraham, and the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob. Then Moses trembled, and durst not behold.³³ Then said the Lord to him, Put off thy shoes from thy feet: for the place where thou standest is holy ground.³⁴ I have seen, I have seen the affliction of my people which is in Egypt, and I have heard their groaning, and am come down to deliver them. And now come, I will send thee into Egypt. 

f) God delivers Israel v 35-36

^“35 This Moses whom they refused, saying, Who made thee a ruler and a judge? the same did God send to be a ruler and a deliverer by the hand of the angel which appeared to him in the bush.³⁶ He brought them out, after that he had shewed wonders and signs in the land of Egypt, and in the Red sea, and in the wilderness forty years.”

Stephen was well versed in the history of Israel. So far he was on common ground. No one could argue Israel’s past.

When witnessing to others about Christ, find common ground. This will help to get the conversation started. Then move to how Christ came to earth to redeem their sin.

Tom Stearns, WASI Chaplain, 907 715-4001 chaplain@alaskaseniors.com

Good morning,

Stephen was a mighty man of God. He was faithful and never backed down in the face of opposition. He died proclaiming God’s word. 

Who was Stephen? Who opposed him? What was Stephen’s message? What was the response to Stephen’s message?

Stephen, the High Priest, and the Rebellious

Ye stiffnecked and uncircumcised in heart and ears, ye do always resist the Holy Ghost: as your fathers did, so do ye. (Acts 7:51)

Introduction Setting the stage, Stephen accused

Stephen accused Acts 6:8-15

“And Stephen, full of faith and power, did great wonders and miracles among the people.9 Then there arose certain of the synagogue, which is called the synagogue of the Libertines, and Cyrenians, and Alexandrians, and of them of Cilicia and of Asia, disputing with Stephen.10 And they were not able to resist the wisdom and the spirit by which he spake.11 Then they suborned men, which said, We have heard him speak blasphemous words against Moses, and against God.12 And they stirred up the people, and the elders, and the scribes, and came upon him, and caught him, and brought him to the council,13 And set up false witnesses, which said, This man ceaseth not to speak blasphemous words against this holy place, and the law:14 For we have heard him say, that this Jesus of Nazareth shall destroy this place, and shall change the customs which Moses delivered us.15 And all that sat in the council, looking steadfastly on him, saw his face as it had been the face of an angels.” 

Note that Stephan was “…full of faith and power…” Note that it was false witnesses that accused him. The charges were false.

Today, we see much of the same thing happening. People are perverting what the Bible says for their own advantage. Some are in it for the money, some to change the gospel message, and others to totally deny Jesus Christ.

Stephen is given the opportunity to defend what he believes. Chapter 7 documents what he said.

So what about us? When people curse our God, promote false doctrine, or refuse to believe, what is our response? I hope we will learn some lessons from Stephen’s defense of the faith.

Stephen’s Defense: The history of Israel (Acts 7:1-53)

Then said the high priest, Are these things so? v1

Abraham (2-7)

a) Family history v 2-4

² And he said, Men, brethren, and fathers, hearken; The God of glory appeared unto our father Abraham, when he was in Mesopotamia, before he dwelt in Charran,³ And said unto him, Get thee out of thy country, and from thy kindred, and come into the land which I shall shew thee.⁴ Then came he out of the land of the Chaldaeans, and dwelt in Charran: and from thence, when his father was dead, he removed him into this land, wherein ye now dwell.

b) Inheritance v 5

⁵ And he gave him none inheritance in it, no, not so much as to set his foot on: yet he promised that he would give it to him for a possession, and to his seed after him, when as yet he had no child.

c) Bondage v 6-7

⁶ And God spake on this wise, That his seed should sojourn in a strange land; and that they should bring them into bondage, and entreat them evil four hundred years.⁷ And the nation to whom they shall be in bondage will I judge, said God: and after that shall they come forth, and serve me in this place.

Covenant of circumcision v 8

⁸ And he gave him the covenant of circumcision: and so Abraham begat Isaac, and circumcised him the eighth day; and Isaac begat Jacob; and Jacob begat the twelve patriarchs.

Joseph: Prison to Prince v 9-16

a) Joseph afflicted by his brothers, made governor by Pharaoh v 9-10

⁹ And the patriarchs, moved with envy, sold Joseph into Egypt: but God was with him,¹⁰ And delivered him out of all his afflictions, and gave him favor and wisdom in the sight of Pharaoh king of Egypt; and he made him governor over Egypt and all his house.

b) Famine v 11-12

Now there came a dearth over all the land of Egypt and Canaan, and great affliction: and our fathers found no sustenance.¹² But when Jacob heard that there was corn in Egypt, he sent out our fathers first.

c) Revelation to brothers and father v13-16

¹³ And at the second time Joseph was made known to his brethren; and Joseph’s kindred was made known unto Pharaoh.¹⁴ Then sent Joseph, and called his father Jacob to him, and all his kindred, threescore and fifteen souls.¹⁵ So Jacob went down into Egypt, and died, he, and our fathers,¹⁶ And were carried over into Shechem, and laid in the sepulcher that Abraham bought for a sum of money of the sons of Emmor the father of Shechem.

Exodus v 17-36

a) Pharaoh’s plan to destroy God’s people v 17-19

¹⁷ But when the time of the promise drew nigh, which God had sworn to Abraham, the people grew and multiplied in Egypt,¹⁸ Till another king arose, which knew not Joseph.¹⁹ The same dealt subtilly with our kindred, and evil entreated our fathers, so that they cast out their young children, to the end they might not live.

b) Moses born and raised in Pharaoh’s court for 40 years v 20-22

²⁰ In which time Moses was born, and was exceeding fair, and nourished up in his father’s house three months:²¹ And when he was cast out, Pharaoh’s daughter took him up, and nourished him for her own son.²² And Moses was learned in all the wisdom of the Egyptians, and was mighty in words and in deeds.

c) Moses visits his brethren v 23-28

²³ And when he was full forty years old, it came into his heart to visit his brethren the children of Israel.²⁴ And seeing one of them suffer wrong, he defended him, and avenged him that was oppressed, and smote the Egyptian:²⁵ For he supposed his brethren would have understood how that God by his hand would deliver them: but they understood not.²⁶ And the next day he shewed himself unto them as they strove, and would have set them at one again, saying, Sirs, ye are brethren; why do ye wrong one to another?²⁷ But he that did his neighbor wrong thrust him away, saying, Who made thee a ruler and a judge over us? ²⁸ Wilt thou kill me, as thou didst the Egyptian yesterday?

d) Moses flees to Midian for 40 years v 29

²⁹ Then fled Moses at this saying, and was a stranger in the land of Midian, where he begat two sons.

e) God calls Moses to deliver Israel v 30-34

³⁰ And when forty years were expired, there appeared to him in the wilderness of mount Sinai an angel of the Lord in a flame of fire in a bush. ³¹ When Moses saw it, he wondered at the sight: and as he drew near to behold it, the voice of the Lord came unto him,³² Saying, I am the God of thy fathers, the God of Abraham, and the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob. Then Moses trembled, and durst not behold.³³ Then said the Lord to him, Put off thy shoes from thy feet: for the place where thou standest is holy ground.³⁴ I have seen, I have seen the affliction of my people which is in Egypt, and I have heard their groaning, and am come down to deliver them. And now come, I will send thee into Egypt. 

f) God delivers Israel v 35-36

^“35 This Moses whom they refused, saying, Who made thee a ruler and a judge? the same did God send to be a ruler and a deliverer by the hand of the angel which appeared to him in the bush.³⁶ He brought them out, after that he had shewed wonders and signs in the land of Egypt, and in the Red sea, and in the wilderness forty years.”

Stephen was well versed in the history of Israel. So far he was on common ground. No one could argue Israel’s past.

When witnessing to others about Christ, find common ground. This will help to get the conversation started. Then move to how Christ came to earth to redeem their sin.

g) Moses reminds the people of their rebellion and idol worship v37-44

³⁷ This is that Moses, which said unto the children of Israel, A prophet shall the Lord your God raise up unto you of your brethren, like unto me; him shall ye hear.³⁸ This is he, that was in the church in the wilderness with the angel which spake to him in the mount Sinai, and with our fathers: who received the lively oracles to give unto us:³⁹ To whom our fathers would not obey, but thrust him from them, and in their hearts turned back again into Egypt,⁴⁰ Saying unto Aaron, Make us gods to go before us: for as for this Moses, which brought us out of the land of Egypt, we wot not what is become of him.⁴¹ And they made a calf in those days, and offered sacrifice unto the idol, and rejoiced in the works of their own hands. ⁴² Then God turned, and gave them up to worship the host of heaven; as it is written in the book of the prophets, O ye house of Israel, have ye offered to me slain beasts and sacrifices by the space of forty years in the wilderness? ⁴³ Yea, ye took up the tabernacle of Moloch, and the star of your god Remphan, figures which ye made to worship them: and I will carry you away beyond Babylon.⁴⁴ Our fathers had the tabernacle of witness in the wilderness, as he had appointed, speaking unto Moses, that he should make it according to the fashion that he had seen.

h) Joshua Promised Land till David v 45

⁴⁵ Which also our fathers that came after brought in with Joshua into the possession of the Gentiles, whom God drove out before the face of our fathers, unto the days of David;

i) David finds favor with God v 46

⁴⁶ Who found favor before God, and desired to find a tabernacle for the God of Jacob.

j) Temple built by Solomon v 47

⁴⁷ But Solomon built him a house.

k) God does not dwell in temples made by hands v 48-50

⁴⁸ Howbeit the most High dwelleth not in temples made with hands; as saith the prophet,⁴⁹ Heaven is my throne, and earth is my footstool: what house will ye build me? saith the Lord: or what is the place of my rest?⁵⁰ Hath not my hand made all these things?

Stephen goes through the history of Israel and comes to verse 50 with this summation: “HATH NOT MY HAND MADE ALL THESE THINGS?” It was a rhetorical question. Of course God made it all. So then he rebukes his listeners in verses 51-53. 

Who are you following today? Are you God deniers or obedient lovers of the one true God and His Son Jesus Christ? Are you resisting the Holy Ghost or allowing the Holy Ghost to lead and comfort you? 

 l) Stephen’s rebuke for disobedience and death of Jesus v 51-53

⁵¹ Ye stiffnecked and uncircumcised in heart and ears, ye do always resist the Holy Ghost: as your fathers did, so do ye.⁵² Which of the prophets have not your fathers persecuted? and they have slain them which shewed before of the coming of the Just One; of whom ye have been now the betrayers and murderers:⁵³ Who have received the law by the disposition of angels, and have not kept it.

RESPONSE TO STEPHEN’S DEFENSE (Acts 7:54-60)

High Priest, people, elders, and false witnesses v 54, 57-60

a) They were cut to the heart v 54

⁵⁴ When they heard these things, they were cut to the heart, and they gnashed on him with their teeth.

b) Stopped their ears v 55-57

⁵⁵ But he, being full of the Holy Ghost, looked up steadfastly into heaven, and saw the glory of God, and Jesus standing on the right hand of God,⁵⁶ And said, Behold, I see the heavens opened, and the Son of man standing on the right hand of God. ⁵⁷ Then they cried out with a loud voice, and stopped their ears, and ran upon him with one accord,

c) Cast him out of the city and stoned him v 58-59

⁵⁸ And cast him out of the city, and stoned him: and the witnesses laid down their clothes at a young man’s feet, whose name was Saul.⁵⁹ And they stoned Stephen, calling upon God, and saying, Lord Jesus, receive my spirit.

Stephen’s response v 55-56, 59-60

a) Looked up to heaven, saw the glory of God and Jesus standing at the right hand of God v 55-56

⁵⁵ But he, being full of the Holy Ghost, looked up steadfastly into heaven, and saw the glory of God, and Jesus standing on the right hand of God,⁵⁶ And said, Behold, I see the heavens opened, and the Son of man standing on the right hand of God.

b) Call’s unto God to receive his spirit v 59

⁵⁹ And they stoned Stephen, calling upon God, and saying, Lord Jesus, receive my spirit.

c) Cries to God saying “Lay not this sin to their charge.”

⁶⁰ And he kneeled down, and cried with a loud voice, Lord, lay not this sin to their charge. And when he had said this, he fell asleep.

Today we will look at the response to Stephen’s defense of the faith. Life presents us with choices. We can choose to follow righteousness or wickedness, God or Satan, God’s Son Jesus Christ or Satan’s demons outcasts from heaven. Ultimately our decisions determine our eternal destiny. The Jewish religious leaders refused to believe that Jesus was their Messiah. That day they sealed their fate. Their wickedness caused them to choose death rather than life. However, if a person, who has led the wicked lifestyle described here, repents and believes on the Lord Jesus Christ they will be saved and enjoy fellowship with Jesus for all eternity. 

CONCLUSION

KNOW YOUR HISTORY

OBEY GOD’S WORD

Tom Stearns, WASI Chaplain, 907 715-4001 chaplain@alaskaseniors.com