ACTS 6

STEPHEN IS APPOINTED + FACES OPPOSITION 

As the number of Jesus’ followers continues to grow, the number of requests for service and healing also increases. Wanting to reach more people, the disciples appoint seven men to serve alongside them, specifically to serve the Greek population. Stephen, Philip, Prochorus, Nicanor, Timon, Parmenas, and Nicolaus are the seven men chosen, based on their wisdom and reliance on the Holy Spirit.

Stephen is a faithful and powerful leader who produces great signs and wonders among the people. Stephen faces great opposition from the synagogue. False witnesses speak against Stephen, saying he spoke blasphemy against Moses and God. The Jewish people who do not follow Jesus are concerned that the temple will be destroyed, and religious customs will be revoked.

When Stephen is brought before the religious council, Stephen’s face appears as the face of an angel. Although the text is not clear what this looked like, it’s possible it resembled the face of Moses, who shimmered after seeing God face-to-face (Exodus 34), or the angel outside of Jesus’ tomb who appeared like lightning (Matthew 28).