Chapter Summary

Address of Stephen before the council. Stephen martyred.

Discussion Questions for Acts, Chapter 7

1. The high priest asked Stephen if these accusations are true. Stephen preaches an impromptu sermon recalling the entire history of Israel. What is his view of God? Why does he point to positive examples of faith outside of Israel?
2. Stephen particularly notes the jealousy of the patriarchs towards Joseph. Why do you think that is? What does God do in the face of jealousy and rash decisions?
3. In Luke 12:12, Jesus promised the disciples that the Spirit would give them the words to say when they were on trial. Where do you see God's wisdom in this sermon? How did the Jewish leaders respond to the Spirit? Do you think Stephen came on too strong? What would you have done?
4. The Jews revered Moses and the Law. Stephen points out that the Jews resisted Moses at first. How so? How did God manifest his presence among them? Was that enough for the Jews? Why or why not?
5. Where does God dwell? Why does this factor into Stephen's response to the accusations? Stephen turned the tables on his accusers. How did he go on the offensive?
6. What did God show to Stephen? Do you think Stephen is a victim in this setting? Who was waiting to welcome him? How do the final moments of Stephen's life encourage you? Scare you? Who was a witness that day?
7. Does Stephen's final words remind you of someone else's final words? What does the full submissive trust of Jesus and Stephen teach you about your final moments one day?
8. What new work of God began when Stephen's finished? Where do you see God working today? Do you find it hard to change and adjust to God's will? What are the biggest sacrifices you've made to adjust?
9. Ultimately, God worked all things together for good. Where do you need reminding of this? What burdens or unanswered prayers do you need to leave at Jesus' feet?
10. Have you read any modern day examples of Christian martyrs lately? If not, check out Voice of the Martyrs. What does the gospel advancing have to do with the death of innocent believers? Do you believe God knows what is best? How does your life reflect that?

Key Words/Phrase

Testimony, v. 1. Martyrdom, v. 59.

Characters

God, Jesus, Holy Spirit, Stephen, Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, Joseph, Pharaoh, Moses, Pharaoh's daughter, Aaron, Solomon, Saul.

Strong Verse(s)

52, 55, 56.