Bible Strands
Stephen
Stephen, one of the seven deacons chosen by the early church, was full of faith and the Holy Spirit, performed miracles, and became the first Christian martyr after his powerful testimony before the Sanhedrin.
From Easton's Bible Dictionary
One of the seven deacons, who became a preacher of the gospel. He was the first Christian martyr. His personal character and history are recorded in Acts 6. "He fell asleep" with a prayer for his persecutors on his lips (7:60). Devout men carried him to his grave (8:2).
Easton's Illustrated Bible Dictionary, 1897 — public domain, quoted in full and unedited.
First named at Acts 6:5.
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Verses that name Stephen
- Acts 6:5 This proposal pleased the whole group. They chose Stephen, a man full of faith and of the Holy Spirit, as well as Philip, Prochorus, Nicanor, Timon, Parmenas, and Nicolas from Antioch, a convert to Judaism.
- Acts 6:8 Now Stephen, who was full of grace and power, was performing great wonders and signs among the people.
- Acts 6:9 But resistance arose from what was called the Synagogue of the Freedmen, including Cyrenians, Alexandrians, and men from the provinces of Cilicia and Asia. They disputed with Stephen,
- Acts 7:59 While they were stoning him, Stephen appealed, “Lord Jesus, receive my spirit.”
- Acts 8:2 God-fearing men buried Stephen and mourned deeply over him.
- Acts 11:19 Meanwhile those scattered by the persecution that began with Stephen traveled as far as Phoenicia, Cyprus, and Antioch, speaking the message only to Jews.
- Acts 22:20 And when the blood of Your witness Stephen was shed, I stood there giving my approval and watching over the garments of those who killed him.’