Steven's Arrest and Murder - Aug 23 - Angela Rich
Teachers
Lesson Summary
During the class, Angela Rich continued the study of the early church by focusing on Stephen, one of the seven deacons appointed in Acts 6. She explained that the deacons were empowered by the Holy Spirit to heal and preach, and that Stephen faithfully proclaimed the resurrection of Jesus to a hostile Jewish audience from the Synagogue of Freedom. The lesson detailed how false accusations of blasphemy were raised before the Sanhedrin, a council of 71 elders, leading to Stephen’s arrest and trial. Angela highlighted Stephen’s steadfastness as he saw the heavens open and Jesus standing at the right hand of God (Acts 7:55‑56), and described his final act of forgiveness while being stoned (Acts 7:59‑60), drawing a parallel to Jesus’ prayer for his executioners on the cross (Luke 23:34). She urged the class to reflect on personal experiences of unforgiveness, emphasizing that Stephen’s example challenges believers to extend grace even when deeply wounded. The teaching concluded with a call to consider the larger perspective of God’s purpose beyond immediate pain.
Key Scriptures
This fellow never stopped speaking against the temple and the law. We heard him say that Jesus of Nazareth will destroy this place and change the customs that Moses had handed down to us
He saw the glory of God, and Jesus standing at the right hand of God
Lord Jesus, receive my spirit... Lord, do not hold this sin against them