Podcast appearances and mentions of stephen acts

“Stephen, a man full of God’s grace and power, performed amazing miracles and signs among the people.” (Acts 6:8 NLT) The Bible gives us several different examples of well-lived lives. One is found in Acts 6, in the story of Stephen, the first known Christian martyr. Though he did not live long, Stephen demonstrated several qualities that are necessary for a well-lived life—qualities that allowed him to be used powerfully by God. First, he had a good reputation. Acts 6:3 says that Stephen was selected to lead a ministry because he was “well respected.” He had personal integrity. He fit the apostle Paul’s description in 1 Timothy 3:6–7: “A church leader must not be a new believer, because he might become proud, and the devil would cause him to fall. Also, people outside the church must speak well of him so that he will not be disgraced and fall into the devil’s trap” (NLT). A well-lived life is marked by a good reputation. Second, he was “full of faith and the Holy Spirit” (Acts 6:5 NLT). Stephen lived a Spirit-controlled life. He yielded to the working of the Holy Spirit every day. A well-lived life is one that faithfully follows the Holy Spirit’s leading. Third, he was filled with wisdom, according to verse 3. We see his wisdom on display in Acts 7 as he quotes from Scripture in presenting the gospel to the Jewish Sanhedrin, the Jewish high council. Keep in mind that it’s possible to have knowledge and not wisdom. There are many very learned people who lack wisdom. They are unable to translate their knowledge into God-honoring application. A well-lived life is one that prioritizes wisdom. Fourth, he was faithful in the little things. He diligently performed the tasks that were set before him without considering whether the jobs were “beneath him.” He was willing to humble himself and do whatever was necessary to accomplish God’s work. You can never be too small for God to use. Only too big. If you say, “I’m willing to do whatever you want me to do, Lord, and I will be faithful in that,” you’ll be amazed at what God will accomplish through you. A well-lived life starts at the bottom, from a human perspective. Fifth, he looked for opportunities and seized them. Stephen was arrested and brought before the Sanhedrin. He was accused of blasphemy, but his real crime was serving the Lord faithfully. He surely understood that his life hung in the balance. But Stephen saw an opportunity to speak the gospel truth to people who needed to hear it. So, he seized the moment and delivered one of the most powerful sermons recorded in Scripture. The consequences didn’t matter to him; what mattered was the opportunity to serve Christ and share His message. A well-lived life is one in which opportunities are recognized and seized upon. Luke, the author of Acts, described Stephen as being “full of God’s grace and power” (Acts 6:8 NLT). That is also the ideal description of a well-lived life. Reflection question: Which quality of Stephen do you most want to strengthen in your life? Discuss Today's Devo in Harvest Discipleship! — The audio production of the podcast "Daily Devotions from Greg Laurie" utilizes Generative AI technology. This allows us to deliver consistent, high-quality content while preserving Harvest's mission to "know God and make Him known."All devotional content is written and owned by Pastor Greg Laurie. Listen to the Greg Laurie Podcast Become a Harvest PartnerSupport the show: https://harvest.org/supportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Luke‬ ‭9‬:‭43‬-‭45‬ (‭ESV) ‬‬“And all were astonished at the majesty of God. But while they were all marveling at everything he was doing, Jesus said to his disciples, “Let these words sink into your ears: The Son of Man is about to be delivered into the hands of men.” But they did not understand this saying, and it was concealed from them, so that they might not perceive it. And they were afraid to ask him about this saying.”Who would want to kill Jesus?Why would they want to kill Jesus?Luke 13:31–35 (ESV) At that very hour some Pharisees came and said to him, “Get away from here, for Herod wants to kill you.” And he said to them, “Go and tell that fox, ‘Behold, I cast out demons and perform cures today and tomorrow, and the third day I finish my course. Nevertheless, I must go on my way today and tomorrow and the day following, for it cannot be that a prophet should perish away from Jerusalem.' O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, the city that kills the prophets and stones those who are sent to it! How often would I have gathered your children together as a hen gathers her brood under her wings, and you were not willing! Behold, your house is forsaken. And I tell you, you will not see me until you say, ‘Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord!' ”In our lifetime, there have been assassinations.Charlie Kirk is the first spectacle/murderRecorded live/high def while streamingCan be replayed infinitelyThe arguments about his message are typicalUnlike other assassinations, we can go back and review his message unlike any other. Something different:He was political, but was doing more than arguing politics He was smart, but more than arguing factsHe regularly declared TRUTH - preacher/prophetic/apostolicHe had influence in the highest spheres: culture, finance, politics and church.Shockingly, no scandals (though people are doing everything to create them.His funeral was a first ever in my lifetimeLargest funeral in our timeWho's who of finance and politicsPowerful worship, for hoursHours of the Gospel being preached - JESUSA gospel that doesn't reach all spheres of society, including our leaders in government, is an ineffective gospel.Our message isn't for these four walls - it's for this zip code, for this region, for our nation, for the world.“The church should stay out of politics!” I agree to the point that we have to be careful about trying to get specific candidates elected under the banner of “God's Man.” Politics is attempting to influence morality and Christians are attempting to influence morality, Christians have to speak into politics. Moses appealed not only to the Israelites, but also to Pharaoh Prophets spoke directly to Kings - Elijah/Ahab/Jezebel1 Kings 18:1 (ESV) After many days the word of the LORD came to Elijah, in the third year, saying, “Go, show yourself to Ahab, and I will send rain upon the earth.”Jesus was before Pontus PilatePaul/Silas preached to their jailerPaul preached to Publius and eventually appealed to Rome Acts 19:21 (ESV) Now after these events Paul resolved in the Spirit to pass through Macedonia and Achaia and go to Jerusalem, saying, “After I have been there, I must also see Rome.”A version of this is playing out in American right now.?A nation/states founded on biblical principles We have the highest population of non-Christian's trying to throw off our Christian-based frameworkThis will be more defined than ever in your lifetime.People will be involved. The spiritual realm will be very active THERE IS ASSAULT ON TRUTHThis is not an attack on facts, but TRUTH2 Corinthians 11:3 (ESV) But I am afraid that as the serpent deceived Eve by his cunning…TRUTH is under attackGenesis 1:1 (ESV) In the beginning, Godcreated the heavens and the earth.Genesis 1:26 (ESV) Then God said, “Let us make man in our image, after our likeness. And let them have dominion…Genesis 1:27 (ESV) male and female he created them.Genesis 1:28 (ESV) And God said to them, “Be fruitful and multiply and fill the earth and subdue it, and have dominion over the fish of the sea and over the birds of the heavens and over every living thing that moves on the earth.”Genesis 2:15 (ESV) The LORD God took the man and put him in the garden of Eden to work it and keep it.Genesis 2:16–17 (ESV) And the LORD God commanded the man, saying, “You may surely eat of every tree of the garden, but of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil you shall not eat, for in the day that you eat of it you shall surely die.”Genesis 3:4–5 (ESV) But the serpent said to the woman, “You will not surely die. For God knows that when you eat of it your eyes will be opened, and you will be like God, knowing good and evil.”THERE IS AN ASSAULT ON TRUTH TELLERSGod is the ultimate truth teller - his WORDS created lifeTRUTH tellers declare, deposit and reinforce LIFEYou are not a threat based on what you believeYou become a threat by what you declare with your life and especially with your WORDSAdam/Eve were the original TRUTH tellers - the moment that they sinned, they were deceived and their role changedCain killed AbleGenesis 4:3–8 (ESV) In the course of time Cain brought to the LORD an offering of the fruit of the ground, and Abel also brought of the firstborn of his flock and of their fat portions. And the LORD had regard for Abel and his offering, but for Cain and his offering he had no regard. So Cain was very angry, and his face fell. The LORD said to Cain, “Why are you angry, and why has your face fallen? If you do well, will you not be accepted? And if you do not do well, sin is crouching at the door. Its desire is contrary to you, but you must rule over it.” Cain spoke to Abel his brother. And when they were in the field, Cain rose up against his brother Abel and killed him.1 John 3:12 (ESV) We should not be like Cain, who was of the evil one and murdered his brother. And why did he murder him? Because his own deeds were evil and his brother's righteous.Saul tried to kill DavidSaul killed priests - 1 Samuel 22:17 (ESV) And the king said to the guard who stood about him, “Turn and kill the priests of the LORD, because their hand also is with David, and they knew that he fled and did not disclose it to me.” Jezebel killed the ProphetsHerodias killed John the Baptist Mark 6:17–20 (ESV) For it was Herod who had sent and seized John and bound him in prison for the sake of Herodias, his brother Philip's wife, because he had married her. For John had been saying to Herod, “It is not lawful for you to have your brother's wife.” And Herodias had a grudge against him and wanted to put him to death. But she could not, for Herod feared John, knowing that he was a righteous and holy man, and he kept him safe. When he heard him, he was greatly perplexed, and yet he heard him gladly.Mark 6:23–25 (ESV) And he vowed to her, “Whatever you ask me, I will give you, up to half of my kingdom.” And she went out and said to her mother, “For what should I ask?” And she said, “The head of John the Baptist.” And she came in immediately with haste to the king and asked, saying, “I want you to give me at once the head of John the Baptist on a platter.”Pharisees killed Stephen - Acts 7:54–59 (ESV) Now when they heard these things they were enraged, and they ground their teeth at him. 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.” But they cried out with a loud voice and stopped their ears and rushed together at him. Then they cast him out of the city and stoned him. And the witnesses laid down their garments at the feet of a young man named Saul. And as they were stoning Stephen, he called out, “Lord Jesus, receive my spirit.”JesusEvery apostle but John There is going to be an attack on Christianity on a new level. Not just individuals, but Christianity will be the new racismTHERE IS AN ASSAULT TO BE SILENT ABOUT, TOLERATE, AFFIRM & ULTIMATELY CELEBRATE ANTI-TRUTHPeople become deceived - believe the lies2 Thessalonians 2:7–12 (ESV) For the mystery of lawlessness is already at work. Only he who now restrains it will do so until he is out of the way. And then the lawless one will be revealed, whom the Lord Jesus will kill with the breath of his mouth and bring to nothing by the appearance of his coming. The coming of the lawless one is by the activity of Satan with all power and false signs and wonders, and with all wicked deception for those who are perishing, because they refused to love the truth and so be saved. Therefore God sends them a strong delusion, so that they may believe what is false, in order that all may be condemned who did not believe the truth but had pleasure in unrighteousness.War on Words:Gender Affirming CarePlanned ParenthoodSocial Pressures - Go along to get alongRedefining of LOVE - Love without truth is not LOVEJohn 14:6–7 (ESV) Jesus said to him, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me. If you had known me, you would have known my Father also. From now on you do know him and have seen him.”John 8:31–32 (ESV) So Jesus said to the Jews who had believed him, “If you abide in my word, you are truly my disciples, and you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.”

Luke‬ ‭9‬:‭43‬-‭45‬ (‭ESV) ‬‬“And all were astonished at the majesty of God. But while they were all marveling at everything he was doing, Jesus said to his disciples, “Let these words sink into your ears: The Son of Man is about to be delivered into the hands of men.” But they did not understand this saying, and it was concealed from them, so that they might not perceive it. And they were afraid to ask him about this saying.”Who would want to kill Jesus?Why would they want to kill Jesus?Luke 13:31–35 (ESV) At that very hour some Pharisees came and said to him, “Get away from here, for Herod wants to kill you.” And he said to them, “Go and tell that fox, ‘Behold, I cast out demons and perform cures today and tomorrow, and the third day I finish my course. Nevertheless, I must go on my way today and tomorrow and the day following, for it cannot be that a prophet should perish away from Jerusalem.' O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, the city that kills the prophets and stones those who are sent to it! How often would I have gathered your children together as a hen gathers her brood under her wings, and you were not willing! Behold, your house is forsaken. And I tell you, you will not see me until you say, ‘Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord!' ”In our lifetime, there have been assassinations.Charlie Kirk is the first spectacle/murderRecorded live/high def while streamingCan be replayed infinitelyThe arguments about his message are typicalUnlike other assassinations, we can go back and review his message unlike any other. Something different:He was political, but was doing more than arguing politics He was smart, but more than arguing factsHe regularly declared TRUTH - preacher/prophetic/apostolicHe had influence in the highest spheres: culture, finance, politics and church.Shockingly, no scandals (though people are doing everything to create them.His funeral was a first ever in my lifetimeLargest funeral in our timeWho's who of finance and politicsPowerful worship, for hoursHours of the Gospel being preached - JESUSA gospel that doesn't reach all spheres of society, including our leaders in government, is an ineffective gospel.Our message isn't for these four walls - it's for this zip code, for this region, for our nation, for the world.“The church should stay out of politics!” I agree to the point that we have to be careful about trying to get specific candidates elected under the banner of “God's Man.” Politics is attempting to influence morality and Christians are attempting to influence morality, Christians have to speak into politics. Moses appealed not only to the Israelites, but also to Pharaoh Prophets spoke directly to Kings - Elijah/Ahab/Jezebel1 Kings 18:1 (ESV) After many days the word of the LORD came to Elijah, in the third year, saying, “Go, show yourself to Ahab, and I will send rain upon the earth.”Jesus was before Pontus PilatePaul/Silas preached to their jailerPaul preached to Publius and eventually appealed to Rome Acts 19:21 (ESV) Now after these events Paul resolved in the Spirit to pass through Macedonia and Achaia and go to Jerusalem, saying, “After I have been there, I must also see Rome.”A version of this is playing out in American right now.?A nation/states founded on biblical principles We have the highest population of non-Christian's trying to throw off our Christian-based frameworkThis will be more defined than ever in your lifetime.People will be involved. The spiritual realm will be very active THERE IS ASSAULT ON TRUTHThis is not an attack on facts, but TRUTH2 Corinthians 11:3 (ESV) But I am afraid that as the serpent deceived Eve by his cunning…TRUTH is under attackGenesis 1:1 (ESV) In the beginning, Godcreated the heavens and the earth.Genesis 1:26 (ESV) Then God said, “Let us make man in our image, after our likeness. And let them have dominion…Genesis 1:27 (ESV) male and female he created them.Genesis 1:28 (ESV) And God said to them, “Be fruitful and multiply and fill the earth and subdue it, and have dominion over the fish of the sea and over the birds of the heavens and over every living thing that moves on the earth.”Genesis 2:15 (ESV) The LORD God took the man and put him in the garden of Eden to work it and keep it.Genesis 2:16–17 (ESV) And the LORD God commanded the man, saying, “You may surely eat of every tree of the garden, but of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil you shall not eat, for in the day that you eat of it you shall surely die.”Genesis 3:4–5 (ESV) But the serpent said to the woman, “You will not surely die. For God knows that when you eat of it your eyes will be opened, and you will be like God, knowing good and evil.”THERE IS AN ASSAULT ON TRUTH TELLERSGod is the ultimate truth teller - his WORDS created lifeTRUTH tellers declare, deposit and reinforce LIFEYou are not a threat based on what you believeYou become a threat by what you declare with your life and especially with your WORDSAdam/Eve were the original TRUTH tellers - the moment that they sinned, they were deceived and their role changedCain killed AbleGenesis 4:3–8 (ESV) In the course of time Cain brought to the LORD an offering of the fruit of the ground, and Abel also brought of the firstborn of his flock and of their fat portions. And the LORD had regard for Abel and his offering, but for Cain and his offering he had no regard. So Cain was very angry, and his face fell. The LORD said to Cain, “Why are you angry, and why has your face fallen? If you do well, will you not be accepted? And if you do not do well, sin is crouching at the door. Its desire is contrary to you, but you must rule over it.” Cain spoke to Abel his brother. And when they were in the field, Cain rose up against his brother Abel and killed him.1 John 3:12 (ESV) We should not be like Cain, who was of the evil one and murdered his brother. And why did he murder him? Because his own deeds were evil and his brother's righteous.Saul tried to kill DavidSaul killed priests - 1 Samuel 22:17 (ESV) And the king said to the guard who stood about him, “Turn and kill the priests of the LORD, because their hand also is with David, and they knew that he fled and did not disclose it to me.” Jezebel killed the ProphetsHerodias killed John the Baptist Mark 6:17–20 (ESV) For it was Herod who had sent and seized John and bound him in prison for the sake of Herodias, his brother Philip's wife, because he had married her. For John had been saying to Herod, “It is not lawful for you to have your brother's wife.” And Herodias had a grudge against him and wanted to put him to death. But she could not, for Herod feared John, knowing that he was a righteous and holy man, and he kept him safe. When he heard him, he was greatly perplexed, and yet he heard him gladly.Mark 6:23–25 (ESV) And he vowed to her, “Whatever you ask me, I will give you, up to half of my kingdom.” And she went out and said to her mother, “For what should I ask?” And she said, “The head of John the Baptist.” And she came in immediately with haste to the king and asked, saying, “I want you to give me at once the head of John the Baptist on a platter.”Pharisees killed Stephen - Acts 7:54–59 (ESV) Now when they heard these things they were enraged, and they ground their teeth at him. 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.” But they cried out with a loud voice and stopped their ears and rushed together at him. Then they cast him out of the city and stoned him. And the witnesses laid down their garments at the feet of a young man named Saul. And as they were stoning Stephen, he called out, “Lord Jesus, receive my spirit.”JesusEvery apostle but John There is going to be an attack on Christianity on a new level. Not just individuals, but Christianity will be the new racismTHERE IS AN ASSAULT TO BE SILENT ABOUT, TOLERATE, AFFIRM & ULTIMATELY CELEBRATE ANTI-TRUTHPeople become deceived - believe the lies2 Thessalonians 2:7–12 (ESV) For the mystery of lawlessness is already at work. Only he who now restrains it will do so until he is out of the way. And then the lawless one will be revealed, whom the Lord Jesus will kill with the breath of his mouth and bring to nothing by the appearance of his coming. The coming of the lawless one is by the activity of Satan with all power and false signs and wonders, and with all wicked deception for those who are perishing, because they refused to love the truth and so be saved. Therefore God sends them a strong delusion, so that they may believe what is false, in order that all may be condemned who did not believe the truth but had pleasure in unrighteousness.War on Words:Gender Affirming CarePlanned ParenthoodSocial Pressures - Go along to get alongRedefining of LOVE - Love without truth is not LOVEJohn 14:6–7 (ESV) Jesus said to him, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me. If you had known me, you would have known my Father also. From now on you do know him and have seen him.”John 8:31–32 (ESV) So Jesus said to the Jews who had believed him, “If you abide in my word, you are truly my disciples, and you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.”

Jake Allen

What are the spiritual lessons from the first New Testament Martyr Stephen? There are three very clear lessons that apply to today's believers. Follow along to discover these three truths.

This week we reading Acts 6:1-7:2a and 44-60. This is a reading that really reflects the complexity of communal faith life in ways that are both inspiring and sobering. What is possible when religious leaders recognize how the spirit moves within members of our community, and freely empowers new leaders to serve in new ways? And speaking of new ways ... Can any community hold the particular ferocity of argument that erupts when an established form of religion is confronted by a disestablished form of that religion? Communal faith life is tricky, isn't it. 

God's Word for Today3 Apr, 2025A wicked man puts on a bold face, but the upright gives thought to his ways.-Prov 21:29 ESVBE NOT ARROGANTGod condemns the arrogant for they are unwilling to learn. The "bold face" here is a description of someone ignoring advice or correction, acting as if they are still right (Prov 21:24). It can also imply someone using deceits and rants to convince other people to believe his lies. He tries to gain others' trust by putting on a hypocritical face that hides his deception. There is an imagery of a person scowling or displaying smug, as a stubborn child who refuses to be told "no." Such a person resists correction. When told to repent and believe, he hardens his heart. Indeed, stubbornness is its own form of sinful pride (Prov 29:1)In contrast, a godly person is willing to hear advice (Prov 12:15). He even will change his mind when it's sensible (Prov 19:20). He is more self-reflective, carefully considering what he does. The godly man submits to the Lord. He repents when he is wrong and seeks forgiveness. He relates to others honestly and humbly.The Pharisees practiced deception. Hence, Jesus said they were hypocrites (Mat 23:13). They appeared to be religious, but they were wolves in sheep's clothing. They appeared to be as clean on the outside, but in their hearts were full of rot and death, like painted tombs (Mat 23:27–28). But God can change such hearts. Take for example the apostle Paul. At one time he was a proud Pharisee. He consented with the murder of Stephen (Acts 7:59—8:1), but the Lord changed his heart, and Saul became a submissive servant of the Lord (Acts 9:1–6). The persecutor then became the persecuted. He testified, “The saying is trustworthy and deserving of full acceptance, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners, of whom I am the foremost. But I received mercy for this reason, that in me, as the foremost, Jesus Christ might display his perfect patience as an example to those who were to believe in him for eternal life.”[1 Tim 1:15-16]Watch in YouTube: https://youtu.be/lPuuvKVODmgListen and FOLLOW us on our podcast Spotify: http://bit.ly/glccfil_spotify Apple Podcast: http://bit.ly/glccfil-applepcast Audible Podcast: http://bit.ly/glccfil-audibleFollow us on various media platforms: https://gospellightfilipino.contactin.bio#gospellightfilipino#godswordfortoday

Pastor Geoff Bohleen

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 Today, in our passage here in Luke 12:8-10, we have one ofthe most interesting and discussed topics in the Gospels and that is the questionof what does it mean to “blaspheme against the Holy Spirit.”  Luke 12 begins with Jesus warning the disciples to “bewareof the leaven of the Pharisees, which is hypocrisy”. Over the next several versesJesus instructs both the disciples and the crowd on how to avoid becoming ahypocrite like the Pharisees of His day. Of course this is very much for usbelievers today. There are some very practical things we can do that will keepus from compromising our faith and going along with the crowd. Sometimes itmight be the crowd in the world with their ungodly ways, or most likely itcould be the crowd in our religious circles with their emphasis on the externalrituals, ceremonies, legalism, and made-up rules and preferences.  First, Jesus tells us to remember that everything we say ordo in secret, or behind closed doors, will one day be exposed to everyone to seeand hear (vv. 2-3). Secondly, Jesus tells us not to fear men, or anyone, and whatthey might say or do against us, but to fear God (vv. 4-5). Third, Jesusreminds us that despite our circumstances during difficult and tragic times, Godstills loves and cares for us and notices the smallest detail of our lives andall the needs of our lives (vv. 6-7). Now in our verses today (vv. 8-12), which begin with, “Also,I say unto you”, Jesus gives us another way to avoid hypocrisy is to be courageousenough to publicly profess and confess Christ openly (vv. 8-9)! And we shouldalso recognize and depend on the ministry of the Holy Spirit (vv.10-12).  We need to remember that one day we will have to standbefore God at the Judgement Seat of Christ and give an account of our deeds. (Notour sins, because they are taken care of at the cross.) If we obediently and courageouslyprofess Christ openly now to the lost world around us, on that day Christ willconfess that we have been “good and faithful servants” before both the Fatherand the angels in heaven. But if we deny Him now, fail to live and stand up forHim, Jesus says we will be ashamed before the angels in heaven on that day.What a great motivation to avoid being a hypocrite!!!!! Now what about the statement concerning the “blasphemy ofthe Holy Spirit'? We need to recognize that this statement is connected withthe ministry of the Spirit in and through the Apostles (Luke 12:11-12). TheJewish nation rejected God the Father when they refused to obey John theBaptist and repent, for John was sent by the Father. They rejected God the Sonwhen they asked Pilate to crucify Him. But that sin could be forgiven becausethere was still the ministry of the Spirit. God did not judge the nation immediately. Instead, Jesusprayed for them as He hanged on the cross (Luke 23:34; see also Acts 3:17).Then God sent the Holy Spirit who ministered through the Apostles and otherbelievers in the church. This was the last opportunity for the nation, and theyfailed by rejecting the witness of the Spirit (Acts 7:51). Luke 12:11-12 wasfulfilled during the first chapters of Acts when the message went "to theJew first" (Acts 3:26; 13:46; Rom. 1:16). Israel's third "nationalsin" was the stoning of Stephen (Acts 7), after which the message went outto the Samaritans (Acts 8), and then the Gentiles (Acts 10). Note that Stephensaid, "You always resist the Holy Spirit" (Acts 7:51). I do not believe that the "sin against the HolySpirit" is committed by people today as it was by Israel centuries ago. InJohn 16:8-9, Jesus told His disciples “that when the Holy Spirit has come, Hewill convict the world of sin, and of righteousness, and of judgment: of sin,because they do not believe in Me. I believe that the only "unpardonable sin" todayis the final rejection of Jesus Christ (John 3:36). Make sure you have trusted Jesustoday! Tomorrow might be too late. God bless!

Message from Mike Seaver on February 16, 2025

Acts 5:14, 17-20 (ESV)Acts 5:25, 28-29 (ESV)Acts 5:33-34, 38-39 (ESV)Acts 5:40-42 (ESV)Acts 6:1-7 (ESV)The Accusation of StephenActs 6:8-15 (ESV)Stephen and the SanhedrinActs 7:1-5 (ESV)• Acts 7:2-8 (ESV) – The Patriarchs: Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob• Acts 7:9-16 (ESV) – The Patriarchs in Egypt: Joseph sold into slavery by his brothers• Acts 7:17-36 (ESV) – God Delivers Israel by Moses: How his own people despised Moses and wanted to overthrow his power.• Verse 39 – “Whom our fathers would not obey, but rejected. And in their hearts they turned back to Egypt.”• Verse 40 – “Saying to Aaron, 'Make us gods to go before us; as for this Moses who brought us out of the land of Egypt, we do not know what has become of him.'”How Do We Speak Grace and Truth to Our Generation?1. We don't resist the Holy Spirit• Acts 7:51 (ESV)• 1 Thessalonians 5:19 (NKJV)• Ephesians 4:30-32 (NKJV)2. We speak the truth• Acts 7:52-53 (ESV)3. We don't argue with chaos• Acts 7:54-57 (ESV)• 1 Corinthians 14:33 (NKJV)4. We love the people that are against us• Acts 7:58-60 (ESV)• Matthew 10:16 (NKJV)• Ephesians 6:12 (NKJV)Acts 8:1-3 (ESV)• Luke 1:1-2 (NLT)• Acts 22:17-21 (NKJV)Closing1 Timothy 1:12-17 (NKJV)

January 22nd, 2025. The post “The Trial of Stephen” [Acts 7] appeared first on Calvary Chapel Mountain Home.

Stephen's final moments show his Christlike love for his enemies and his incredible vision of the glorified Jesus Christ standing at God's right hand to welcome him home. The post The Glorious Martyrdom of Stephen (Acts Sermon 17) appeared first on Two Journeys.

Stephen's final moments show his Christlike love for his enemies and his incredible vision of the glorified Jesus Christ standing at God's right hand to welcome him home. The post The Glorious Martyrdom of Stephen (Acts Sermon 17) appeared first on Two Journeys.

Stephen's final moments show his Christlike love for his enemies and his incredible vision of the glorified Jesus Christ standing at God's right hand to welcome him home. The post The Glorious Martyrdom of Stephen (Acts Sermon 17) appeared first on Two Journeys.

Today's Topics: 1, 2, 3, 4) Read Acts 7:1-60 about the martyrdom of Saint Stephen https://lifeteen.com/martyrdom-st-stephen-perfect-reminder-jesus-came/

“Our DEmoCraCy!” Watch a Man Get Arrested for Posting on Facebook; Imagine An AI War: How Do We Come Back From That?; A Black Pastor Compares Daniel Penny to The People Who Stoned Timothy to Death. Watch a man get arrested for posting on Facebook. I've been praying about how to respond to this. Imagine an AI war, and how do we come back from that? What I'm thinking is the AI world is a battlefield. What if a country actually won that? A black pastor compares Daniel Penny to the people who stoned Timothy to death.Episode Links:In the UK, you will be arrested and thrown in jail for posting criticism of mass immigration, grooming gangs, or offending trans people on social media.Alex Karp on the U.S. AI revolution: “This macro trend is going to change everything that we do. War and peace. "This story of Stephen [Acts 7] reminds me of what happened to brother Jordan Neely...All he said is this: 'I'm hungry and I'm thirsty and I'm sick and tired of being sick and tired of having nothing!' But the proud on the train said, 'We've got to stop this guy from talking.'" Alan's Soaps https://www.alansartisansoaps.comUse coupon code ‘TODD' to save an additional 10% off the bundle price.Bioptimizers https://bioptimizers.com/toddGive your body the magnesium it craves with Magnesium Breakthrough.  Visit bioptimizers.com/todd and save an extra 10% with promo code TODD.Bonefrog https://bonefrogcoffee.com/toddMake Bonefrog Cold Brew at home!  Use code TODD at checkout to receive 10% off your first purchase and 15% on subscriptions.Bulwark Capital Bulwark Capital Management (bulwarkcapitalmgmt.com)Get a second opinion on the health of your retirement portfolio today.  Schedule your free Know Your Risk Portfolio review go to KnowYourRiskRadio.com today.My Pillow https://mypillow.com/toddUse promo code TODD to save big on the entire MyPillow classic Collection with the Standard starting at only $14.88.  Renue Healthcare https://renue.healthcare/toddYour journey to a better life starts at Renue Healthcare. Visit renue.healthcare/ToddWisdom Nutrition https://trywisdomnow.com/toddStock up on Wisdom for 33% off plus free shipping. Visit trywisdomnow.com/todd.

Send us a textFor an ad-free version of the podcast plus the opportunity to enjoy hours of exclusive content and two bonus episodes a month and also help keep the Bible Project Daily Podcast free  for listeners everywhere at;patreon.com/JeremyMcCandlessSubscribe here to receive my new church history podcast every few weeks at.https://thehistoryofthechristianchurch.buzzsprout.comWelcome:Today, we look into a challenging passage from the book of Acts, focusing on the life and martyrdom of Stephen. In this episode, titled "Don't Shoot the Messenger - The Stoning of Stephen," we explore Acts 6:8-8:4, uncovering valuable principles that we can apply to our own lives.Episode Notes: Don't Shoot the Messenger - The Stoning of Stephen (Acts 6:8-8:4)Introduction:Today's episode narrates the story of Stephen, the first Christian martyr, and draws important lessons from his life and testimony.Stephen's Arrest (Acts 6:8-15):Stephen, a man full of God's grace and power, performed great wonders and signs.Opposition arose from members of the Synagogue of the Freedmen who could not stand up against the wisdom the Spirit gave Stephen as he spoke.False accusations of blasphemy against Moses and God led to Stephen's arrest and trial before the Sanhedrin.Stephen's Message (Acts 7:1-53):Stephen delivers a powerful speech recounting the history of Israel, from Abraham to Moses, highlighting how the people of Israel repeatedly rejected God's messengers.He emphasizes that God does not dwell in temples made by human hands and accuses the Sanhedrin of resisting the Holy Spirit and betraying and murdering the Righteous One, Jesus.The Reaction to Stephen's Message (Acts 7:54-8:4):The Sanhedrin, furious and enraged by Stephen's accusations, stoned him to death.Stephen's final words were a prayer for forgiveness for his persecutors, mirroring Jesus' words on the cross.A great persecution broke out against the church in Jerusalem, leading to the scattering of believers throughout Judea and Samaria.Despite the persecution, believers continued to preach the word of God wherever they went.Key Takeaways:Trust in God: Stephen's unwavering faith and peace, even in the face of death, is a powerful testament to the strength that comes from trusting in God.Boldness in Witness: Stephen used his trial as an opportunity to boldly proclaim the gospel, emphasizing the importance of seizing every chance to share the message of Christ.God's Sovereignty: The scattering of believers due to persecution resulted in the spread of the gospel, demonstrating how God can use even difficult circumstances to fulfil His purposes.Reflection: As we reflect on Stephen's story, let us consider how we can exhibit similar trust, boldnesAsk Me Anything - EP. 6 "Therapy, Medication + Mental Health"The podcast where we answer IT ALL! Watch or Stream on Youtube and all streaming platformsListen on: Apple Podcasts SpotifySupport the showJeremy McCandless is creating podcasts and devotional resources | PatreonHelp us continue making great content for listeners everywhere.https://thebibleproject.buzzsprout.com

Stephen had a revelation that had become the theological foundation of the New Testament Church. But it was this same revelation that got Stephen killed. Stephen bore witness to Jesus before the mob, and Jesus stood to bear witness to him before heaven.

Send us a textFor an ad-free version of the podcast plus the opportunity to enjoy hours of exclusive content and two bonus episodes a month and also help keep the Bible Project Daily Podcast free  for listeners everywhere at;patreon.com/JeremyMcCandlessSubscribe here to receive my new church history podcast every few weeks at.https://thehistoryofthechristianchurch.buzzsprout.comWelcome:Today, we look into a challenging passage from the book of Acts, focusing on the life and martyrdom of Stephen. In this episode, titled "Don't Shoot the Messenger - The Stoning of Stephen," we explore Acts 6:8-8:4, uncovering valuable principles that we can apply to our own lives.Episode Notes: Don't Shoot the Messenger - The Stoning of Stephen (Acts 6:8-8:4)Introduction:Today's episode narrates the story of Stephen, the first Christian martyr, and draws important lessons from his life and testimony.Stephen's Arrest (Acts 6:8-15):Stephen, a man full of God's grace and power, performed great wonders and signs.Opposition arose from members of the Synagogue of the Freedmen who could not stand up against the wisdom the Spirit gave Stephen as he spoke.False accusations of blasphemy against Moses and God led to Stephen's arrest and trial before the Sanhedrin.Stephen's Message (Acts 7:1-53):Stephen delivers a powerful speech recounting the history of Israel, from Abraham to Moses, highlighting how the people of Israel repeatedly rejected God's messengers.He emphasizes that God does not dwell in temples made by human hands and accuses the Sanhedrin of resisting the Holy Spirit and betraying and murdering the Righteous One, Jesus.The Reaction to Stephen's Message (Acts 7:54-8:4):The Sanhedrin, furious and enraged by Stephen's accusations, stoned him to death.Stephen's final words were a prayer for forgiveness for his persecutors, mirroring Jesus' words on the cross.A great persecution broke out against the church in Jerusalem, leading to the scattering of believers throughout Judea and Samaria.Despite the persecution, believers continued to preach the word of God wherever they went.Key Takeaways:Trust in God: Stephen's unwavering faith and peace, even in the face of death, is a powerful testament to the strength that comes from trusting in God.Boldness in Witness: Stephen used his trial as an opportunity to boldly proclaim the gospel, emphasizing the importance of seizing every chance to share the message of Christ.God's Sovereignty: The scattering of believers due to persecution resulted in the spread of the gospel, demonstrating how God can use even difficult circumstances to fulfil His purposes.Reflection: As we reflect on Stephen's story, let us consider how we can exhibit similar trust, boldness, and faithfulness in our own lives. How can we stand firm in our faith and be courageous in sharing the gospel, even when facing opposition?Support the showJeremy McCandless is creating podcasts and devotional resources | PatreonHelp us continue making great content for listeners everywhere.https://thebibleproject.buzzsprout.com

Destin continues our series on the book of Acts, teaching about Stephen's stoning and reminding us that God is sovereign, present everywhere, and has given us a savior.Stream additional content at https://www.youtube.com/c/RockPointeChurchFM

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There are five qualifications of the forerunners of the early church as seen in Stephen (Acts 6:1-8): - Good Reputation: Character and Integrity - Full of the Holy Spirit: Fruit and Gifts - Full of the Word of God: Grounded in Him - Full of Faith: Action Flowing from Being - Full of Power: the Signs Followed His Belief

May 30, 2024 --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/stjohnrandomlake/support

What are deacons? Why were they needed? Who is Stephen?

The Testimony of Stephen (Acts 6-7) by Harvest Church

The Apostles were sent ones who had witnessed Christ's ministry from His baptism through His ascension back to heaven. It seems that Paul witnessed the life and ministry of Christ as a young unbeliever, but was especially moved by the martyring of Stephen (Acts 7:58)  Paul, whose name was still Saul at that time, rejected Christ and persecuted His church until He saw the resurrected Jesus on the road to Damascus. It is fascinating to read His perspective of the ministry Christ gave to Him and the persecutions He endured with great hope. During the forty days after Christ's resurrection, every individual who was privileged to see our resurrected Lord, a mission was given—go and tell. In our American mindset, we often imagine this as a glitzy, glamorous opportunity, but must remember that Jesus informed His disciples that we would not be treated different than they treated Him. (John 15:20)  The Apostles' lives illustrated this reality! Yet they embraced the commission Christ gave with hope in God. May we do the same!

The Stoning of Stephen (Acts 7 pt 2) – Margo Frost The post The Stoning of Stephen (Acts 7 pt 2) – Margo Frost appeared first on Westside Church.

What were the differences among the Greeks, Hellenists, and Hebrews in Acts? Why does Stephen retell Israel's history in his defense? Shouldn't Old Testament citations in the New Testament be exact quotes? Exploring Stephen's story in Acts 6–7, Pastor Jeff and Jordan look into the languages, manuscripts, and peoples that shaped the New Testament.   —   This episode of The Beyond Sunday Podcast expands upon the sermon “Stephen | Acts 6–7” in “Decided,” our 2023–24 sermon series reexamining the basics of following Christ.   —   More on Greeks and God-fearers: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N7c1uSgI9FA&t=42s The Business of Heaven (C.S. Lewis daily readings): https://www.amazon.com/Business-Heaven-Daily-Readings/dp/0062643576/ref=sr_1_1?crid=3VA4I4SKS45MC&keywords=the+business+of+heaven+c.s.+lewis&qid=1704824561&sprefix=the+business+of+heaven%2Caps%2C154&sr=8-1 Submit a question: bit.ly/BeyondSundayQuestions

We're taking the next several months to look at the lives of those who decided to follow Jesus after He ascended into Heaven. What did their lives look like as a result of trusting and following Jesus, and what does their transformation mean for us today? Join us this week as we learn from Stephen, one of the first deacons and the first Christian martyr.   ---   What is a Christian, and what does a Christian do? How do we live out our faith in everyday life? In this new series called “Decided,” we're going back to the basics of what it means to trust and follow Jesus.    Sermon Notes: http://bible.com/events/49186022  Submit a Question: bit.ly/BeyondSundayQuestions

And the saying pleased the whole multitude: and they chose Stephen, a man full of faith and of the Holy Ghost, and Philip, and Prochorus, and Nicanor, and Timon, and Parmenas, and Nicolas a proselyte of Antioch:ACT.6:6 Whom they set before the apostles: and when they had prayed, they laid their hands on them.This show is part of the Spreaker Prime Network, if you are interested in advertising on this podcast, contact us at https://www.spreaker.com/show/4656375/advertisement

And the saying pleased the whole multitude: and they chose Stephen, a man full of faith and of the Holy Ghost, and Philip, and Prochorus, and Nicanor, and Timon, and Parmenas, and Nicolas a proselyte of Antioch:ACT.6:6 Whom they set before the apostles: and when they had prayed, they laid their hands on them.

We all know the story, Stephen in Acts 7 preaches a 'barn burner' much like Peter did in Acts 2, but those two sermons got completely different results. Peter preached and thousands got saved and were added to the church. Stephen preached and got stoned to death, resulting in the close of the entire Kingdom Age dispensation. This singular event ushered in the Church Age with completely different rules, doctrine and leaders. On this episode of Rightly Dividing, we travel back to Acts 7 to witness the horrific stoning of Stephen, the close of the Kingdom Age, and the start of the still-up-and-running Church Age of the gospel of the grace of God. But what if the Jews who killed Stephen had repented? What would have happened next? We are left to guess, but by comparing scripture with scripture and rightly dividing what we read, we can get pretty close to what would likely have happened next. The Second Coming! That would mean no Church Age, no apostle Paul, no age of grace, no Christian Church as we know it. Things would have been very different to say the least. Join us as we visit a parallel world where things have worked out completely opposite to what we know today, but all of it is in line with what the prophets said would happen.

This is October 1st's sermon by Gage Crowder on what Stephen's life and death teach us. Gage Crowder teaches literature and Bible at Providence Classical School in Huntsville, Alabama. In addition to his studies at Birmingham Theological Seminary, he is a contributing member of the Huntsville Literary Association and the Academy of Philosophy and Letters. His poetry and prose can be found in the The Legend, Poem Magazine, the Birmingham Arts Journal, Panoply and elsewhere. Trinity Reformed Church is a CREC mission church in Huntsville, AL. seeking to extend and unite the Kingdom in the Huntsville area. Check out our website, Facebook or YouTube!

We continue to marvel over the sacrifice of Stephen. Would we do the same? Do we have a price? This week's discussion features Judah Thomas, Ben Cossette, Lenny Salgado, David LaManna, Johnny V, and Mike McHugh For more information visit: www.thrive.church If you would like to give financially you can do so here: www.thrive.church/give/ If you need prayer email us at prayer@thrive.church This is a presentation of Thrive.Church ©All Rights Reserved

Acts 7:54-60

Stephen: Acts 6:8-15 (Nate Edmondson) by Highlands Community Church

At age sixteen, Luis Rodriguez had already been in jail for selling crack. But now, arrested for attempted murder, he was in prison once again—looking at a life sentence. But God spoke into his guilty circumstances. Behind bars, young Luis remembered his early years when his mother had faithfully taken him to church. He now felt God tugging at his heart. Luis, moved by Him, repented of his sins and came to Jesus. In his early years, the apostle Paul’s “street name” was Saul. He was guilty of aggravated assault on believers in Jesus and had murder in his heart (Acts 9:1). There’s evidence he was a kind of gang leader, and part of the mob at the execution of Stephen (Acts 7:58). But God spoke into Saul’s guilty circumstances—literally. On the street leading into Damascus, Saul was blinded by a light, and Jesus spoke to him, “Why do you persecute me?” (v. 9:4). Saul asked, “Who are you, Lord?” (v. 5), and that was the beginning of his new life. He came to Jesus. Luis Rodriguez served time but eventually was granted parole. Since then, he’s served God, devoting his life to prison ministry in the US and Central America. God specializes in redeeming the worst of us. He tugs at our hearts and speaks into our guilt-drenched lives. Maybe it’s time we repented of our sins. Maybe it’s time to come to Jesus.