Bible Study: "Stephen's Masterful Presentation of Christ, The Messiah"

Source

Acts 7:17-53

Stephen reminded his accusers and judges that the nation had had a history of generations of rejecters and rebellious people. If they finally rejected Jesus, the only Saviour of the world, they would seal their doom and forever bring upon themselves and future generations, eternal damnation.  “Beware therefore, lest that come upon you, which is spoken of in the prophets; Behold, ye despisers, and wonder, and perish: for I work a work in your days, a work which ye shall in no wise believe, though a man declare it unto you” (Acts 13:40,41). 

Stephen was not a blasphemer as they falsely reported. He affirmed and acknowledged Moses’ ability, appointment and anointing. He said, “Moses was exceeding fair”, “Moses was learned in all the wisdom of the Egyptians”, “Moses was mighty in words and in deeds”, he “understood how that God by his hand would deliver them.” Their question showed their ignorance and rejection: “who made thee a ruler and a judge OVER US?” Stephen’s point is clear: the former generation rejected the mediator sent from God, and the present generation rejects the Mediator (1 Timothy 2:5,6) approved, appointed, anointed and sent by God. Israel was guilty of rebellion and rejection. Are you guilty of rejecting Christ as your Mediator, Saviour, Deliverer and Lord?

False witnesses had risen against Stephen, vehemently saying, “This man ceaseth not to speak blasphemous words against this holy place, and the law” (Acts 6:13). Stephen cleared himself of the charge by referring to the law as “the lively oracles” given “unto us” (Acts 7:38). He said he believed that “our fathers” “received the law by the disposition of angels” (Acts 7:53). Concerning “this holy place”, the temple, the place of worship which almost became the object of worship, he recited what Solomon had said and revealed what God, Himself, had said. “Howbeit the most High dwelleth not in temples made with hands; as saith the prophet” (Acts 7:48). God, Himself, said, “Heaven is My Throne, and earth is My footstool: what house will ye build Me? Saith the Lord: or what is the place of My rest?” (Acts 7:49). These accusers and witnesses were hypocrites. Like the Pharisees during the earthly ministry of Jesus, and like generations of religious hypocrites since the time of Moses, they had habitually broken the laws they were defending. From the time of Moses, “our fathers would not obey”, and “in their hearts turned back again into Egypt” (Acts 7:39). 

The Jews, addressed by Stephen, were “stiffnecked and uncircumcised in heart and ears”; these persecutors had “received the law by the disposition of angels, and HAVE NOT KEPT IT” (Acts 7:51-53). Their fanatical zeal for “this holy place” was shallow, empty and deceptive. Their sinful, hypocritical lives rendered their worship unacceptable. “When ye come to appear before me, who hath required this at your hand, to tread my courts?” (Isaiah 1:12). “Will ye steal, murder, and commit adultery, and swear falsely; and come and stand  before me in this house, which is called by My Name, and say, We are delivered to do all these abominations?” (Jeremiah 7:9,10). Religion which does not lead to repentance, righteousness and practical holiness is worthless in the sight of God. Such religion, even if it is called Christianity, will damn the soul in the eternal lake of fire. Repent and believe on the Lord, Jesus Christ. He is the only One who can forgive your sins, save your soul, transform your life, keep you holy and ready for heaven.-from outline

Oh how I desire to be like Stephen! A man filled with the holy spirit who boldly preached the word of God even at the rejection of it by his persecutors. My personal prayer: Lord strengthen me to preach your word without hesitation; courageously and without compromise. Amen.

Please listen to the bible study this week and may you gain strength to  masterfully and fearlessly preach the word!

God bless,

-Charity