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Stephen and the New Deal
Article by Richard T. RitenbaughIn the dynamic story of the early church's growth, Stephen, a mere deacon ordained to serve tables, stands out as a significant figure, with a substantial portion of the narrative devoted to him. After beginning to preach and perform marvelous wonders, his enemies incited the people against him, leading to his seizure and trial before the Sanhedrin. Given the chance to reply to false charges of blasphemy against the Temple and the law, Stephen boldly recounted the history of God's promises and deliverances to Israel, fearlessly addressing their rejection of God and His prophets. He accused them of proud disobedience and the murder of the Messiah, inciting murderous vengeance among the Jews, which led to his martyrdom by stoning. In his final moments, Stephen declared, "Look! I see the heavens opened and the Son of Man standing at the right hand of God!" Christ stood by His Father's throne during Stephen's stoning, witnessing his unwavering faith and ultimate sacrifice. Stephen, filled with the Holy Spirit, proved himself a humble servant, devoted to God, through whom astonishing miracles were performed. God used him mightily to spread His Word and dispute opposition, choosing him for his yielded, submissive, and faithful attitude. Despite the danger, Stephen stood firm before the Sanhedrin, his face appearing as that of an angel by God's favor, knowing his life was at stake for the capital offense of blasphemy under Jewish law. As rocks struck him, Stephen's steadfastness in faith demonstrated the power of God's Spirit working through a human other than Christ Himself, elating Christ who stood to witness this triumph over opposition and human weakness. Stephen's sacrifice marked him as the first after Jesus to give his all for God and the magnificent deal of the New Covenant. His final act presented an astounding witness of a converted, deeply convicted man who surrendered everything for his Lord and Master, leaving a lasting impact recorded for the benefit of all who consider his example.
Faithful Stephen
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsChrist does not want His staff to exercise Gentile patterns of tyrannical, top-down leadership, but to humbly serve people without striving for greatness.
Acts (Part Seven)
Sermon/Bible Study by John W. RitenbaughLuke records the confrontation of the apostles and the Sanhedrin. Amazingly, the apostles found an ally in Gamaliel, a Pharisee and grandson of Hillel.
Acts (Part Ten)
Sermon/Bible Study by John W. RitenbaughThe martyrdom of Stephen had the paradoxical effect of spreading the Gospel into Gentile venues, enabling individuals like Cornelius to be added to Christ.
God's Special Presence and Direct Intervention
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsThe scattering of the early church strengthened it, allowing fresh seed to be scattered in new fields. The 'bad' thing actually increased the church's power.
Acts (Part Nine)
Sermon/Bible Study by John W. RitenbaughStephen's martyrdom and his compassion on his persecutors, followed by the reaction against his brutal murder, resulted in a rapid spreading of the Gospel.
Old Testament: Fruit of the Spirit (Part Three)
Sermon by Ronny H. GrahamIn contrast to Stephen who spoke the truth fearlessly, Haman valued his position more than the truth and gave into hatred for Mordecai and his people.
Why Hebrews Was Written (Part Three)
'Personal' from John W. RitenbaughHebrews was written to fulfill several needs of the first-century church. One of the most critical was to explain God's opening of eternal life to the Gentiles.
Don't Give Up (2015)!
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsHave you ever wanted to just give up? Have trials weighed you down to the point of despair? Is old age sapping the strength and determination?
Acts (Part Eight)
Sermon/Bible Study by John W. RitenbaughStephen points out that historically, God has dealt with His people without land or temple, but instead through deliverers, initially rejected by their own.
Our End Time
CGG Weekly by David C. GrabbeWe scour the prophecies for any overlooked clue that might guide us through these times of turmoil. Yet, the details we seek remain hidden—for good reason.
Hebrews: Its Background (Part Four)
Sermon by John W. Ritenbaugh (1932-2023)The frightful conditions during the 1st century are typical of the times ahead. To weather these circumstances, we need the encouragement of Hebrews.
Philip the Witness
Sermonette by Ted E. BowlingPhilip teaches us that we do not have to preach to multitudes in order to be used by God; we never know in what capacity God may use us.