Scripture: Acts 7: 54-56
The Jewish leaders were infuriated by Stephen’s accusation, and they shook their fists at him in rage.[m] 55 But Stephen, full of the Holy Spirit, gazed steadily into heaven and saw the glory of God, and he saw Jesus standing in the place of honor at God’s right hand. 56 And he told them, “Look, I see the heavens opened and the Son of Man standing in the place of honor at God’s right hand!”
Scripture Commentary:
Stephen saw the glory of God and Jesus standing at God’s right hand. We often read about Jesus talking and praying to God. However, we do not see them together in the same place.
Stephen is giving up his life for Jesus and His Father. They are witnessing the event unfold and are preparing to accept Stephen into God’s kingdom. Jesus gave his life for us and now he sees Stephen doing the same for him.
The Jewish leaders denied Jesus and now, in anger, they condemned Stephen to death by stoning. Saul, who was part of the Jewish leadership, persecuted Christ’s followers and stood as a witness against Stephen.
Stephen’s death impacted Saul who later went on the road to Damascus where Jesus asked him in Acts 9, “Saul! Saul! Why are you persecuting me?” The event between Saul and Jesus reveals how God can take anyone and use them for his mission.
Are you on the road to Damascus? Let Jesus into your life and see how he works in you.
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