Sooner or later we are all going to die.
Lessons from the book of Acts (#1)
When your time comes, would you like to die gracefully?
We can all learn from a man who died gracefully. His story is found in the Bible, in the book of Acts, chapter 7. This is the story of Stephen, one of the seven chosen to serve in the early Church. Stephen is sometimes recognized as the first martyr (after Jesus) of the Christian Church.
Stephen knew what he believed and boldly spoke out for Christ and the Church with uncompromising conviction. His comments enraged “the religious authorities.” Stephen was accused of blasphemy and was martyred for his faith after eloquently and forcefully defending the establishment of the new Christian Church.
Why was Stephen able to die gracefully in the midst of a hostile environment?
Let’s take a look at four elements of his story.
- Stephen was a man of faith.
…. and they chose Stephen, a man full of faith and of the Holy Spirit, ….. (Acts 6:5 ESV)
- Stephen knew where to put his focus.
But he, full of the Holy Spirit, gazed into heaven and saw the glory of God, and Jesus standing at the right hand of God. And he said, “Behold, I see the heavens opened, and the Son of Man standing at the right hand of God.” (Acts 7:55-56 ESV)
- Stephen knew that his salvation came through Jesus, the Messiah (Savior) .
And as they were stoning Stephen, he called out, “Lord Jesus, receive my spirit.” (Acts 7:59 ESV)
- Stephen was able to forgive his enemies.
And falling to his knees he cried out with a loud voice, “Lord, do not hold this sin against them.” And when he had said this, he fell asleep. (Acts 7:60 ESV)
When my time comes, I hope I die as gracefully and peacefully as Stephen died.
Please read “Whoever Believes….”
