Chapter 7 is the stirring story of Stephen, a Christian believer, who was the first martyr for the Faith In chapter 6 verses 8 -15 the Bible tells of the arrest of Stephen and his trial before the Temple council. Chapter 7 is one of the most concise, yet complete, retelling of the story of the Jews from Abraham to Moses. In this, Stephen points out how the religious leaders had always persecuted the prophets and thus continued the persecution to Jesus to the point of crucifixion. So enraged are the leaders at Stephen's accusations that they stone him to death. His prayer on their behalf (7:60) is remarkably similar to Jesus', "Lord, don't charge them with this sin!"
It is at the end of chapter 7 and the beginning of chapter 8 where we are first introduced to Saul of Tarsus (later renamed Paul after his conversion) who at first heavily persecuted the believers, but became the central voice of Christian doctrine through his epistles. It is mind-boggling that the Lord chose Saul, just like it is mind-boggling that he chose me. Proof that even the vilest sinner can be saved.
May God bless you and bless the reading of His Word.
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