When we read the story of Stephen the first martyrs, it's hard not to think about Jesus. They are both killed by the same smooth criminal organizations. What do we learn now? 

When I wrote the Smooth Criminal, I asked: "Did anyone from the Pharisee inner circle have ever spoken up that what they did is wrong?" Then, in Act 5, we found one member named Gamaliel who stood up and advised to let Jesus follower alone. And they accept his advice. So, for a while, the Jesus follower could get a little bit moment of peace.

Lesson: do not stereotype people. 

Stereotyping people is a sign of laziness. Not every Pharisee - the religious leader are bad people. As a matter of fact, many of the priests also become a follower of Jesus.  

Stephen is one of the seven new leaders. Somehow he attracts more people. The grace and power of God are undeniable. People see wonderful things through his ministry. And guess who doesn't like this? The Jewish religious leader. Once again, they used the same old tactics: bribery! So they arrested Stephen and took him before the High Council.

The communication approach

When Jesus was in the council, He didn't say many words or arguments. Stephen did the opposite. He pours out a long of a history lesson from Abraham to Solomon! He even wrapped his speech with an accusation. 

Some of you may think this lesson 'You might win the argument, but lost the battle.' That's true. Stephen dies in the battle. But in this case, that argument is necessary.  What?! How do I know? Because the Holy Spirit is with him. He needs to say it. It's not about winning the battle or trying to make them repent. They will kill you no matter do you say less or much.

And honestly, to say things that might make you be jailed or kill you is terrifying. We need to realize that some people in the world still get punished because of the gospel. So don't take for granted the freedom and safety that you have right now. 

The methods of the murder

As we read more, the Jewish leader was overtaken with violent rage in their soul. They went wild, infuriated by Stephen's accusations. They were grinding their teeth against him. Somehow all the advice from Gamaliel is forgotten. 

When they killed Jesus, is all well plan and they didn't do it by themself. It's Rome's soldiers who hung Jesus at the cross. But with Stephen, they rushed at him, dragged him out, and began raining down the rocks until he died. They don't mind having dirty bloody hands. It's an impulsive crime.

The mastermind

I like the way Luke put it in the ending of this story. Please read this and imagine there's Marvel's soundtrack is playing. This part is like the post-credit scene. Are you ready?

Luke reveals who's the mastermind behind Stephen's death.

Frame in: a young man standing behind the crowd, congratulating the killers. His name is Saul.

Frame out: The beginning of the Gospel phase 3 - The persecution. 

Credit title rolling. 

One more! 

It turned out, the Hamdal (Thor) technology of teletransport has existed! I wish I could just wink, and I will be in Jakarta or anywhere that I want. 

Thank you for reading! Let's grow together. 

This post is my personal notes from the Westmark Bible Study assignment. So, every week we read two chapters together and share what we learned or found from them. Let’s learn and grow together.

About the writer

Priscilla RVR is a visionary optimist. She believes in to always start with what you have in your hand. To add value and empower people to be better