Day 317

A Man Full of Faith

Acts 6:1–15

God’s word kept on spreading in Jerusalem. The number of disciples grew larger. Even a great many priests came to faith in Christ.

Seven men were chosen from among the believers. They were full of the Holy Spirit and wisdom. Their job was to care for the sharing of food among the believers. One of these was Stephen, a man full of faith, grace, and power. He did great wonders and signs among the people. Some among the Jews rose up and argued with Stephen. But they couldn’t stand against his wisdom and spirit. So they secretly paid people to accuse him: “We’ve heard Stephen say terrible things against Moses and God.” The people, leaders, and teachers of Moses’ law were all angry.

Stephen was forced to go in to the council of rulers. There people lied about him. “He says Jesus of Nazareth will destroy the temple,” they said. “He wants to change the traditions that Moses gave us.”

The high priest looked at Stephen. “Are these things true?” he asked. The whole council also looked deeply into Stephen’s face. They saw that it was like the face of an angel.

Questions: What kind of a man was Stephen? What were the lies that were told about Stephen?