The book of Acts is full of movement—gospel movement. From Jerusalem to Judea, and on to Samaria and the ends of the earth, God’s Word goes forward with unstoppable power. But sometimes that movement doesn’t come in the ways we expect. Sometimes, it’s not through comfort or ease—but through fire, trial, and even death.
Stephen’s story marks a pivotal moment. He’s accused of blasphemy, dragged before hostile leaders, and given a chance to defend himself. But he doesn't retreat or retaliate. Instead, he testifies. He walks through the story of God’s faithfulness and climaxes with the bold proclamation: Jesus is the Risen One—and He is standing in heaven.
Stephen doesn’t try to win the argument with clever rhetoric or impressive credentials. His final word is a vision: “I see Jesus.” And that is enough.
In that moment, Jesus stands—not sits—as if ready to receive His faithful servant. The world sees defeat, but heaven sees vindication. Stephen’s faith is not in himself, but entirely in Christ. That’s our call too: not to prove ourselves right by our arguments, but to fix our eyes on the One who has already won.
Stephen’s composure under pressure is not human strength—it’s Spirit-empowered courage. While others scream, he speaks peace. While he is stoned, he prays for his enemies: “Lord, do not hold this sin against them.”
This is not passive endurance—it’s active grace. The same Spirit that came at Pentecost is now filling Stephen, giving him strength not just to stand, but to love.
We are offered this same power today. When conflict arises, when we feel opposition or suffering, the Holy Spirit is our fire—not to burn others, but to burn brightly with grace, truth, and love.
What looks like a setback is actually the next step in God's mission. Stephen’s death scattered the church, but that scattering led to the spread of the gospel far beyond Jerusalem. Even Saul—the persecutor standing by—was being moved by God in that moment. From that fire would come a missionary who would carry the gospel across the empire.
In God's hands, loss becomes legacy. Pain becomes purpose. When we feel pressed down, God may be setting up His greatest advance.
We all face moments of pressure—at work, in relationships, in times of doubt or pain. Some of us may feel victorious right now. Others may feel defeated. In both cases, remember: Jesus is our vindication. The Holy Spirit is our power. God is sovereign, even in the struggle.
When the noise is loud, the resistance fierce, or the doubts heavy, may we lift our eyes like Stephen and say: “I see Jesus.”
How might you respond this week?
LCM shares the gospel alongside the local church of London, equipping everyday Christians to lovingly bring a message of hope in Christ to those least likely to hear it.
Registered Charity No. 247186
