Acts 7:51-60 – Bold in Our God

James Guthrie, the Scottish martyr hanged for the Gospel’s sake in 1661, was known as ‘Sickerfoot’ (Sure of Foot). He was once asked by a friend, “Will ye nae jouk (duck) a wee bit”. To this Guthrie replied, “There is nae jouking in the cause of Christ!” He had the Spirit of Christ in him as had Stephen centuries earlier. “…Lord Jesus, receive my spirit”

Stephen, as we have seen, has shown that as God’s revelation to the Old Testament Church progressed, there were changes in the place and form of worship appointed by God. He also demonstrates, however, that the Old Testament history is one of repeated rejection of the truth of God. Joseph had been rejected by his brethren and Moses by the people. Idolatry was a recurring feature among the people who were to be holy to the Lord. Against this background, Stephen confronts the council with the fact that they are following in the footsteps not of the heroes of the faith, but the unbelieving covenant-breakers among their forefathers. They had the sign of the covenant (circumcision) but not the reality. They were still in their sins and had unrenewed hearts that would not receive the truth (vs.51-53). His boldness is truly astonishing!

The fury of the enemy was unleashed. Stephen saw Christ at the right hand of God. It was not the will of the Sovereign Saviour to rescue Stephen from his enemies – though He could send legions of angels to do so if He pleased. Rather, He sustained His servant through the suffering to death and glory. Stephen did not ask to be delivered, but received into glory. The glory of Christ was enough to make him ready to leave this world behind. We cling inordinately to this present life because we have seen so little of His beauty. If we are believers, our faithful Saviour is able to be our comfort in life and in death. “For whether we live, we live unto the Lord; and whether we die, we die unto the Lord: whether we live therefore, or die, we are the Lord’s” (Romans 14:8).

Questions
1. Do we see the Lord as equally in control when He does not deliver from trouble, but gives grace and strength to persevere through it?
2. Do believers go straight to Heaven when they die?

Prayer Points
1. Give thanks that God is in control of all things.
2. Use prayer points from your congregation.
3. Pray for family matters.