NT FigureNew Testament

Stephen

Acts

When

c. AD 33· In the text

Tied to events dated from records outside the Bible, usually within a few years. How the dates are worked out

Name meaning

"crown, wreath" · Greek

About

One of the first seven deacons chosen by the Jerusalem church to distribute food fairly. He was described as full of faith and the Holy Spirit, performing great wonders. He was arrested and gave a sweeping speech about Israel's history before the Sanhedrin. When he declared he saw the Son of Man standing at God's right hand the crowd stoned him. Dying, he prayed 'Lord, do not hold this sin against them.' He was the first Christian martyr, and Saul (Paul) watched over the cloaks of those who stoned him.

Relationships

AdversaryPaulThen called Saul, who consented to his death and kept his killers' garments

CompanionPhilip (evangelist)Named next after Stephen among the seven, later called the evangelist

Key Scripture AppearancesKJV

Acts 6:5

And the saying pleased the whole multitude: and they chose Stephen, a man full of faith and of the Holy Ghost, and Philip, and Prochorus, and Nicanor, and Timon, and Parmenas, and Nicolas a proselyte of Antioch:Acts 6:5, KJV

Acts 6:8

And Stephen, full of faith and power, did great wonders and miracles among the people.Acts 6:8, KJV

Acts 7:55

But he, being full of the Holy Ghost, looked up stedfastly into heaven, and saw the glory of God, and Jesus standing on the right hand of God,Acts 7:55, KJV

Acts 7:59

And they stoned Stephen, calling upon God, and saying, Lord Jesus, receive my spirit.Acts 7:59, KJV

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