Join us as we read the scriptures and a daily devotion written by Don Crisp. We pray these messages will bless us all at this time.
Wednesday 30 September : Acts 6: 9-15:
Categories: Don’s Daily Devotions
Wednesday 30 September : Acts 6: 9-15:
V9: Stephen’s powerful witness rouses bitter opposition, coming we’re told from Jews of the scattered dispersion, though clearly in Jerusalem at this time. ( Scholars tell us the “synagogue of the freedmen” was one of a number of such among the scattered Jews, set up when Jews were freed from slavery in the Roman Empire, some time before – hence, the name.) They take issue with Stephen over his preaching.
V10: Filled with the Spirit, he speaks with a God-given wisdom and their arguments can not prevail against him.
V11: So, they move to direct ( and murderous ) persecution. They manipulate ( bribe?) some men to bring a charge of blasphemy against him – we are reminded of the false witnesses against Jesus at His ” trial “. By Jewish law, blasphemy was punishable by death by stoning.
V12: They stir up a mob, involve the Jewish leaders, and bring Stephen before the council. ( Was it already sitting, and was this all set up beforehand?)
V13-14: With full knowledge that the charges are false, Stephen is accused of saying that Jesus will destroy the temple ( perhaps a twisted version of His Words in John 2:19-21.) and teaching the people to depart from what Moses had taught. ( i.e. the Law of God.) What Jesus actually said is, of course, the very opposite of this – Matthew 5: 17-19.)
V15: Stephen, as yet silent before His accusers, like his Master before him, nonetheless has a remarkable effect on those who watch him – ” his face like that of an angel”. Did his face shine, like Moses of old? Was it marked by a peace and serenity beyond anything merely human? We’re not actually told.