Theme

Ministry of Stephen

Stephen is one of the most striking figures of the early Church: the first deacon appointed by the apostles, he quickly distinguishes himself by his wisdom, his ardent faith, and his miraculous signs. The articles of this theme trace his involvement in the Jerusalem community, his preaching activity, and the controversies it provokes among the Jewish religious authorities.

His speech before the Sanhedrin, long and structured, is one of the most remarkable texts of the book of Acts: it retraces the whole history of Israel to show that Jesus is the fulfillment of the Scriptures. This courageous speech gets him stoned, thus becoming the first Christian martyr recorded in the New Testament.

This journey invites reflection on what it means to bear witness to one's faith at the cost of one's life, and on the role of lay people in the mission of the Church. The death of Stephen also opens a decisive turning point: it triggers the persecution that will paradoxically accelerate the spread of the Gospel beyond Jerusalem.

Study 1 of 2 · Stephen's appearance before the Sanhedrin

Study 1: Stephen's appearance before the Sanhedrin
Study 2: Stephen's speech before the Sanhedrin

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Ministry of Stephen

ADA027 Stephen's appearance before the Sanhedrin
The appearance of Stephen before the Sanhedrin (Acts 6.12-15), around AD 34-35, is initiated by Hellenistic opponents from the synagogue of the Freedmen. Unable to refute his wisdom, they resort to false witnesses. The accusations concern the Temple and the Law, recalling the trial of Jesus. Luke thus draws an intentional parallel between the Master and his disciple.

Luke 21.15 (King James Version) :
For I will give you a mouth and wisdom, which all your adversaries shall not be able to gainsay nor resist.
King James Version (1769), domaine public — texte : eBible.org

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Level: Intermediate Level: Intermediate
ADA028 Stephen's speech before the Sanhedrin
Before the Sanhedrin in Jerusalem around AD 34-35, Stephen delivers the longest speech in Acts. Retracing the history of Israel from Abraham, he shows that God's messengers have always been rejected, culminating in the rejection of the Messiah. Far from defending himself, Stephen becomes the accuser of his judges, taking his place in the line of the prophets and of Christ.

Acts 6.15 (King James Version) :
And all that sat in the council, looking stedfastly on him, saw his face as it had been the face of an angel.
King James Version (1769), domaine public — texte : eBible.org

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Level: Intermediate Level: Intermediate