STEPHEN’S FAITH AND FORGIVENESS
By Rev. Samuel Arimoro
Main Text: Acts 7:54-60
Key Verse: “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.” (Acts 7:60)
Supporting Texts: Matthew 5:44; Luke 23:34; Romans 12:14-21; 1 Peter 2:21-23
INTRODUCTION:
Stephen was one of the first deacons appointed in the early church, a man described as “full of faith and of the Holy Ghost.” His life exemplified spiritual boldness, wisdom, and deep compassion even toward his persecutors. When accused falsely and stoned to death, Stephen displayed unwavering faith in Christ and an extraordinary spirit of forgiveness that mirrored his Saviour.
This account teaches every believer that true discipleship involves standing firm in the truth, even when it is costly. Faith in Christ is not proven in comfort but in conviction. It also shows that forgiveness is not a weakness, but the ultimate demonstration of divine strength.
In a world where hatred, revenge, and malice often dominate relationships, Stephen’s example reminds us that the Spirit-filled life produces faith that cannot be shaken and love that refuses to retaliate.
1. STEPHEN’S FAITH IN THE MIDST OF PERSECUTION
Stephen’s faith was not based on convenience or popularity; it was rooted in the conviction that Jesus Christ is Lord, even in the face of danger.
a) A life full of faith and the Holy Ghost (Acts 6:5): Stephen’s spiritual strength came from being filled with the Holy Spirit. His faith was not intellectual but Spirit-empowered.
b) Boldness to speak the truth (Acts 7:51-52): He confronted sin and falsehood with courage, even before religious leaders. Faith speaks truth without fear.
c) Faith that sees beyond circumstances (Acts 7:55-56): Stephen saw the glory of God and Jesus standing at the right hand of the Father. Faith enables believers to see victory even in suffering.
d) Faith that endures unto death (Revelation 2:10): Stephen’s faith did not waver at the point of death. True faith perseveres to the end.
Biblical Example: Daniel’s unwavering faith in the lions’ den (Daniel 6:10-23) mirrors Stephen’s boldness under threat. Both chose obedience to God over fear of death.
2. THE POWER OF FORGIVENESS IN THE FACE OF HATRED
Forgiveness is one of the greatest marks of spiritual maturity. Stephen’s final words revealed his Christlike heart.
a) Forgiveness imitates Christ’s nature (Luke 23:34): Stephen’s prayer for his killers echoed Jesus’ words on the cross. Forgiveness reflects divine nature.
b) Forgiveness releases divine peace (Colossians 3:13-15): Instead of anger or bitterness, Stephen died peacefully, full of grace. Forgiveness sets the heart free.
c) Forgiveness demonstrates love over revenge (Romans 12:17-21): Stephen’s act of mercy conquered hatred with love. God’s power is revealed when we respond with grace.
d) Forgiveness influences others for God (Acts 8:1): Saul, who witnessed Stephen’s death, was later transformed into Paul the Apostle, showing how forgiveness can inspire conversion.
Biblical Example: Joseph forgave his brothers (Genesis 50:19-21), showing that forgiveness turns pain into purpose and preserves divine destiny.
3. THE REWARD OF FAITHFULNESS UNTO DEATH
Stephen’s martyrdom was not the end of his story; it was his crown of glory.
a) Heaven honours faithful witnesses (2 Timothy 4:7-8): Stephen’s faithfulness earned him an eternal reward. God never forgets those who stand firm for Him.
b) Jesus stands to receive His faithful ones (Acts 7:56): Stephen saw Jesus standing; a sign of divine honour and welcome into eternal rest.
c) Suffering for Christ brings glory (1 Peter 4:12-13): The pain of persecution is temporary, but the glory that follows is eternal.
d) Faithfulness inspires future generations (Hebrews 12:1-2): Stephen’s example became a pillar of encouragement for all believers facing trials.
Biblical Example: The Apostle Paul later endured similar persecution (2 Corinthians 11:23-27), drawing inspiration from those like Stephen who went before him.
4. LESSONS FOR TODAY’S BELIEVERS
Stephen’s life challenges every Christian to live boldly and love deeply, even in adversity.
a) Stand firm in faith (1 Corinthians 16:13): Faith is not for fair weather; it must endure under pressure.
b) Be filled with the Holy Spirit (Ephesians 5:18): Only a Spirit-filled believer can display Stephen’s boldness and forgiveness.
c) Let love lead your actions (1 John 4:7-8): Even in conflict, love must remain the believer’s guiding principle.
d) Live with eternity in view (Philippians 3:20): Stephen looked beyond earthly suffering to heavenly glory, we must do the same.
Biblical Example: Jesus’ endurance on the cross (Hebrews 12:2) is the perfect model of perseverance and forgiveness that Stephen followed.
CONCLUSION:
Stephen’s life is a timeless testimony of what it means to walk in the Spirit. His faith was unshaken by persecution, and his heart was unpolluted by bitterness. In his death, he revealed the very heart of Christ: full of grace, mercy, and truth.
Every believer is called to this same level of spiritual maturity. When you walk in faith and forgiveness, you overcome evil with good and display the true power of the Gospel. May God grant us the strength to remain faithful, forgiving, and fearless in all circumstances.
PRAYER POINTS:
1. Lord, fill me with unwavering faith like Stephen.
2. Holy Spirit, empower me to stand firm in the face of trials.
3. Lord, purge my heart of every root of bitterness.
4. Give me the grace to forgive those who offend me.
5. Let my life radiate the power and presence of Christ.
6. Strengthen me to speak truth without fear or compromise.
7. Lord, help me to see Your glory even in my challenges.
8. May my life influence others positively for Christ.
9. Let me remain faithful unto the end.
10. Lord, crown my life with eternal glory in Your presence.
