More Like the Master

Acts 6:8-15; 7:54-60

– The dramatic account of Stephen and his ministry to the Hellenistic Jews in chapters 6-7 is a transition in Luke’s narrative between Peter’s mission to the Jews and Paul’s mission to the Gentiles

– As we examine Stephen’s story today, we will see that He reflected the majesty of Jesus Christ in three important ways:  1) His Mission; 2) His Wisdom;  3) His Death

I.  His Mission (6:8-9)

1.  Stephen faithfully did the work of an evangelist

• His practical ministry to the Hellenistic widows did not displace his zeal for evangelism
• He was performing signs and wonders like Jesus and the Apostles

2.  Stephen’s ministry as a Hellenistic Jew was focused on reaching other Hellenists for Christ

• He was ministering in a Greek synagogue, which may have been his own place of worship at one time
• Like Jesus, Stephen came to his own and was rejected by his own people (cf. John 1:11)

Application:  Does your mission in life line up with the mission of your Master and the priorities of the Kingdom?

II. His Wisdom (6:10)

1.  Like Jesus, Stephen was “full of the Spirit and of wisdom” (6:3)

2.  He was also “full of grace and power” (v. 8)

• ‘Grace’ speaks of his Christ-like humility.
• ‘Power’ speaks of his Spirit-Filled ministry
• To have grace and power is a rare combination which was perfectly exemplified by Jesus Christ

3.  He spoke with divine authority and wisdom

• Neither Stephen, nor Jesus could be trapped in a debate with the religious leaders
• Stephen fulfills Jesus’ prophecy in Luke 21:15
• His countenance was “like the face of an angel”

Application:  Are you “full of grace and power” in your interactions with the non-believing world?

III. His Death (6:11-15; 7:54-60)

1.  Both Jesus and Stephen were slandered by false witnesses (cf. Matthew 26:59-61)

2.  Both Jesus and Stephen looked to God for help in their hour of greatest need

• The Father turned His face from His beloved Son
• The Son is “standing” to greet the first martyr

3.  Both Jesus and Stephen suffered a shameful death at the hands of the religious leaders

4.  Both Jesus and Stephen trusted God with the care of their eternal soul

• Jesus commits His soul to the Father (Luke 23:46)
• Stephen commits his soul to Jesus, thereby expressing his belief in the full deity of Christ

5.  Both Jesus and Stephen extended forgiveness to their enemies (cf. Luke 23:34)

6.  Both Jesus and Stephen left an enduring legacy in death

• Jesus’ death left an indelible mark on the disciples
• Stephen’s death left a lasting impression on Saul of Tarsus

Application:  If someone were to write the story of your life would we see similarities between you and the Master?