In Acts 7, Stephen turns from defendant to prosecutor as he delivers an initially subtle, then searing sermon to the religious and political leaders of his days; sees Jesus as cosmic King standing on the right hand of the Father; and goes out in a literal blaze of glory that post-figures Christ.

Big Idea: The early church carried the gospel throughout the known world in approximately 30 years and transformed an empire in 3 centuries. Now the church seems intimidated, uncertain amidst swift cultural changes. So, what did the early Christians, commanded by Christ and empowered by the Holy Spirit, do that we are not doing? Here are their Acts, and may they inspire our own.

Outline:

1. A Glowing Review
2. The Holy Place
3. A Blaze of Glory

Key Takeaways:

• The charges against Stephen (blasphemy against God, the temple, Moses, and the law) and how his sermon is a masterful, inspired response to those charges.
• The story of the children of Israel, told in a way that emphasized that they are a pilgrim people.
• How the temple became an idol.
• How each member of the Trinity (and not just Jesus) came to Stephen’s defense.
• God’s enduring love toward His people Israel.
• Why our place or home is and must always be in the presence of God.
• The importance of the leaders casting Stephen out of Jerusalem.
• Key questions: How will you enter Heaven?

The post #302 The Acts, Chapter 7 first appeared on The Good Citizen Project.