Following the accusations brought against Stephen, the high priest asks if they are true and Stephen proceeds to offer an extended sermon on the history of Israel. Stephen addresses the misconceptions of the land, the customs of Moses and the temple. Stephen presents the historic rejection of the Word of God by the people of God, at times, lacking understanding, but often flatly resisting and rebelling against the truths of God. Stephen suggests this same tendency in the religious leaders present before him. Stephen applies his sermon to them and their rejection of Jesus, even by their betrayal and murder of Jesus - the promised redeemer, the Messiah sent from God for them.

In response, the religious leaders stone Stephen outside the city. Even in death, Stephen clearly exemplifies the character of Jesus, asking God to receive him and to forgive his murderers for their sin against him. The transforming power of Jesus is displayed in the magnificent sermon of Stephen and clearly displayed in his death. How do you respond to the truth of God: like the religious leaders or like Stephen?

Acts is a unique book in our New Testament, because it is the only book of history that we are given. As Luke writes, a second edition to his gospel, he continues with two vital themes – first, that Jesus offers salvation to men and second, that this work – the mission is accomplished – in the power of the Holy Spirit. Jesus had already instructed his disciples about the Holy Spirit and his ongoing ministry to them and all who would come to believe in Jesus. Despite the obvious focus on the ministry of the Holy Spirit in Acts, this book is about Jesus. Throughout Acts, Jesus is described as Lord (the most common title for Jesus in Acts), Jesus (67x), Christ (25x), Servant, Holy One, Just One, a Prophet like Moses, Savior, Son of God, Son of Man, Author of Life, Judge, Man and God. There is absolutely no question that Acts is the continuing account of all that Jesus began to do and to teach as presented in the gospel of Luke. The outline of Acts is very straightforward: Witnesses in Jerusalem (1-7), Witnesses in Judaea & Samaria (8-12), and Witnesses to the ends of the earth (13-28). Luke focuses throughout on this truth: You will receive power from the Holy Spirit and be my witnesses to the ends of the earth. May God strengthen us to be effective witnesses for Jesus.

Graceway Church of Michiana exists in South Bend, IN for the purpose of Exalting our great God and Savior, Edifying and Encouraging believers and Engaging our Community. 

Graceway Church is committed to being a God Exalting, Christ Centered, Spirit Motivated, Word Focused local body of Believers!