Introduction:
The martyrdom of Stephen is a pivotal event in the early Christian church, marking the first recorded instance of a believer being killed for their faith in Jesus Christ. This event is detailed in the Book of Acts, chapters 6 and 7, and serves as a significant moment in the spread of Christianity beyond Jerusalem.

Background:
Stephen was one of the seven deacons chosen by the early church to assist the apostles by overseeing the distribution of food and aid to the widows and needy (Acts 6:1-6). Described as "a man full of faith and of the Holy Spirit" (Acts 6:5), Stephen was also noted for performing "great wonders and signs among the people" (Acts 6:8).

Opposition and Arrest:
Stephen's ministry and powerful preaching soon attracted the attention of certain members of the Synagogue of the Freedmen, who began to dispute with him. Unable to counter his wisdom and the Spirit by which he spoke, they resorted to deceit, persuading some men to falsely accuse him of blasphemy against Moses and God (Acts 6:9-11). This led to Stephen being seized and brought before the Sanhedrin, the Jewish ruling council.

Stephen's Defense:
Before the Sanhedrin, Stephen delivered a profound speech, recounting the history of Israel and highlighting their repeated resistance to God's messengers. He emphasized the faithfulness of God and the disobedience of the people, culminating in the accusation that they had betrayed and murdered the Righteous One, Jesus Christ (Acts 7:51-52). His speech was a bold proclamation of the gospel and a call to repentance.

Vision and Execution:
As Stephen concluded his defense, he was granted a vision of the glory of God and Jesus standing at the right hand of God. He declared, "Look, I see heaven open and the Son of Man standing at the right hand of God" (Acts 7:56). This declaration further enraged the council, who, in a fit of fury, dragged him out of the city and stoned him to death.

Stephen's Last Words:
In his final moments, Stephen demonstrated Christ-like forgiveness and faith. He prayed, "Lord Jesus, receive my spirit" and, with his last breath, cried out, "Lord, do not hold this sin against them" (Acts 7:59-60). His prayer echoed the words of Jesus on the cross, showcasing the depth of his faith and love even in the face of death.

Impact on the Early Church:
Stephen's martyrdom had a profound impact on the early church. It marked the beginning of a great persecution against the church in Jerusalem, leading to the scattering of believers throughout Judea and Samaria (Acts 8:1). This dispersion played a crucial role in the spread of the gospel beyond the confines of Jerusalem, fulfilling Jesus' command to be His witnesses "in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth" (Acts 1:8).

Saul's Presence:
A young man named Saul, who would later become the Apostle Paul, was present at Stephen's execution, consenting to his death and guarding the garments of those who stoned him (Acts 7:58, 8:1). This event marked the beginning of Saul's intense persecution of the church, which would eventually lead to his dramatic conversion and pivotal role in the spread of Christianity.

Legacy:
Stephen's martyrdom is remembered as a testament to the power of faith and the transformative impact of the Holy Spirit. His unwavering commitment to the truth and his willingness to forgive his persecutors serve as an enduring example for believers throughout the ages.