The Choosing of the Seven
(1 Timothy 3:8-13)

1Now in these days when the disciples are multiplying, there arose a grumbling of the Hellenists against the Hebrews, because their widows were being overlooked in the daily distribution.

2So the Twelve, having called near the multitude of the disciples, said, “It is not desirable for us, having neglected the word of God, to attend tables. 3Therefore, brothers, select out from yourselves seven men being well attested, full of the Spirit and wisdom, whom we will appoint over this task. 4And we will steadfastly continue in prayer and the ministry of the word.”

5And the statement was pleasing before the whole multitude. And they chose Stephen, a man full of faith and of the Holy Spirit, and Philip, and Prochorus, and Nicanor, and Timon, and Parmenas, and Nicolas of Antioch, a convert, 6whom they set before the apostles. And having prayed, they laid the hands on them.

7And the word of God continued to increase, and the number of the disciples in Jerusalem was multiplied exceedingly, and a great multitude of the priests were becoming obedient to the faith.

The Arrest of Stephen

8Now Stephen, full grace and power, was performing great wonders and signs among the people. 9But certain of those from the synagogue called Freedmen, including Cyrenians and Alexandrians and of those from Cilicia and Asia, arose, disputing with Stephen. 10And they were not able to withstand the wisdom and the Spirit by whom he was speaking.

11Then they suborned men, saying, “We have heard him speaking blasphemous words against Moses and God.” 12And they stirred up the people, and the elders, and the scribes; and having come upon him, they seized him and brought him to the Council.

13And they set false witnesses, saying, “This man does not stop speaking words against this holy place and the Law. 14For we have heard him saying that this Jesus of Nazareth will destroy this place and will change the customs that Moses delivered to us.”

15And having looked intently on him, all sitting in the Council saw his face as the face of an angel.