Acts 7:59

While they were stoning him, Stephen appealed, "Lord Jesus, receive my spirit."

Study Bible

While they were stoning him
This phrase sets the scene of a brutal and unjust execution. The act of stoning was a common form of capital punishment in ancient Jewish law, reserved for severe transgressions. Historically, stoning was a communal act, symbolizing collective judgment and condemnation. The Greek word used here, "λιθοβολέω" (lithoboleo), emphasizes the violent nature of the act, as it literally means "to throw stones." This moment reflects the intense hostility faced by early Christians and highlights the cost of discipleship.

Stephen
Stephen, whose name in Greek, "Στέφανος" (Stephanos), means "crown" or "wreath," is depicted as a martyr, crowned with the glory of faithfulness unto death. He was one of the first deacons of the early church, chosen for his wisdom and filled with the Holy Spirit (Acts 6:5). His role as a deacon underscores the importance of service and leadership in the Christian community. Stephen's steadfastness in the face of persecution serves as an enduring example of unwavering faith and courage.

called out
The phrase "called out" is translated from the Greek word "ἐπικαλέω" (epikaleo), which means to invoke or appeal. This action signifies Stephen's direct and personal communication with God, even amidst suffering. It reflects a deep, abiding trust in God's presence and sovereignty. Stephen's invocation is reminiscent of the psalmists who often cried out to God in times of distress, demonstrating a profound reliance on divine intervention and comfort.

Lord Jesus
By addressing "Lord Jesus," Stephen acknowledges the divinity and authority of Christ. The title "Lord" (Κύριος, Kyrios) is a declaration of Jesus' supreme power and his role as the sovereign ruler. This invocation is significant as it mirrors the early Christian confession of faith, recognizing Jesus as both Savior and God. Stephen's appeal to Jesus at the moment of death underscores the centrality of Christ in the believer's life and the hope of eternal life through Him.

receive my spirit
This phrase echoes Jesus' own words on the cross, "Father, into Your hands I commit My spirit" (Luke 23:46). The Greek word for "receive" is "δέχομαι" (dechomai), which implies a welcoming or acceptance. Stephen's request signifies his readiness to enter into the presence of the Lord, trusting in Jesus' promise of eternal life. It reflects the Christian belief in the immortality of the soul and the assurance of being with Christ after death. This moment of surrender is a powerful testament to Stephen's faith and the hope that sustains believers through trials and persecution.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Stephen
A deacon in the early church, known for his faith and filled with the Holy Spirit. He was the first Christian martyr, whose bold testimony and vision of Jesus led to his stoning.

2. The Sanhedrin
The Jewish council that condemned Stephen. They were the religious leaders who felt threatened by the spread of Christianity and Stephen's accusations against them.

3. Jerusalem
The city where this event took place, significant as the center of Jewish worship and the early Christian church.

4. Stoning
A method of execution used in ancient times, particularly for blasphemy, which Stephen was accused of by the Sanhedrin.

5. Lord Jesus
The risen Christ to whom Stephen prays, acknowledging His divinity and role as the mediator between God and man.

Teaching Points

Faithfulness in Persecution
Stephen's example teaches us to remain faithful to Christ even in the face of severe persecution. His unwavering faith is a model for believers today.

Prayer in Crisis
Stephen's prayer to Jesus in his final moments demonstrates the importance of prayer and reliance on Christ during life's most challenging times.

Witnessing Boldly
Stephen's bold proclamation of the gospel, even when facing death, challenges us to be courageous in sharing our faith.

Forgiveness and Love
Stephen's attitude towards his executioners, as seen in his prayer for them, reflects Christ's love and forgiveness, which we are called to emulate.

Eternal Perspective
Stephen's vision of Jesus and his prayer to be received by Him remind us to maintain an eternal perspective, focusing on our heavenly home rather than earthly trials.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Stephen's prayer in Acts 7:59 reflect his relationship with Jesus, and what can we learn from it about our own prayer life?

2. In what ways does Stephen's martyrdom challenge us to live out our faith more boldly in our daily lives?

3. How can we apply Stephen's example of forgiveness towards those who wrong us, especially in light of Jesus' teachings?

4. What does Stephen's vision of Jesus teach us about maintaining an eternal perspective, and how can this perspective influence our daily decisions?

5. How do the parallels between Stephen's and Jesus' final words deepen our understanding of Christian suffering and martyrdom?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Luke 23:46
Jesus' words on the cross, "Father, into Your hands I commit My spirit," echo Stephen's prayer, showing a parallel in their trust in God at the moment of death.

Psalm 31:5
The psalmist's expression of trust in God, which both Jesus and Stephen draw upon in their final moments.

Acts 6:5
Describes Stephen as a man full of faith and the Holy Spirit, setting the stage for his bold witness and martyrdom.

Revelation 6:9-11
The souls of the martyrs under the altar, which connects to Stephen's martyrdom as part of the larger account of Christian witness and sacrifice.