Standing

August 17, 2025

Stephen stood boldly before the Sanhedrin and declared the truth of Christ, even to those who thought themselves righteous. His witness and his death planted seeds that shaped the future of the church.

Stephen’s story in Acts reminds us that the temple, the law, and even our best efforts were only placeholders until Christ came. Jesus, the Righteous One, fulfilled what we never could, and through His Spirit, we have become God’s temple. Standing before the Sanhedrin, Stephen proclaimed this truth with courage; exposing self-righteousness, pointing to Christ, and showing that true righteousness comes only through faith. His words cut deeply, but even more powerful was his witness as he forgave his killers while seeing Jesus standing at the right hand of God. That vision, and his faith, left a lasting mark—even on a young man named Saul.

Stephen’s example challenges us today: witnessing isn’t about knowing all theology, but about sharing how you have experienced the resurrected Christ. Our words and our lives tell a story that God can use to transform others in ways we may never see.