Reimagine Courage Through the Life of Stephenنموونە

Truth-Telling in the Face of Death

Stephen’s powerful message reached its climax in a moment of raw, unflinching confrontation. He could have ended his speech with a softer conclusion—perhaps one focused on God’s mercy or an appeal to unity. Instead, he delivered the hardest truth of all: they had rejected and murdered the very Messiah God had sent to save them.

The response was instant and violent. Rage took over the members of the Sanhedrin, and they lost all ability to reason. But Stephen, still full of the Holy Spirit, lifted his eyes to heaven. There, in a breathtaking moment of divine confirmation, he saw the glory of God and Jesus standing at His right hand. Scripture usually describes Jesus as seated at the right hand of God, symbolizing His finished work. But here, Jesus is standing—as if rising to welcome His faithful witness home.

Stephen says, “I see heaven open and the Son of Man standing at the right hand of God.” (Acts 7:56, NIV) That declaration was too much for the crowd. They covered their ears, rushed him, dragged him outside the city, and stoned him. Yet even as Stephen’s life ebbed away, his heart was still anchored in Christ. He prayed, “Lord Jesus, receive my spirit,” and astonishingly, “Lord, do not hold this sin against them.” (Acts 7:59, NIV)

Stephen’s final moments are a masterclass in gospel courage. He didn’t back down. He didn’t twist the truth to make it more palatable. He didn’t choose comfort or safety. He chose faithfulness. He spoke truth—clear, uncompromising, and Spirit-filled—knowing full well it would cost him his life.

That kind of courage doesn’t come from personality or temperament. It comes from being so deeply anchored in God’s truth that no threat can dislodge you. Stephen wasn’t standing on shifting sand—he was standing on a foundation that even death couldn’t shake. And as he looked up, he saw the One who had conquered death standing to receive him.

You will face moments when speaking truth costs you something—a relationship, a reputation, a sense of belonging. The question is: will you speak it anyway? Will you hold to your convictions when compromise seems easier?

Stephen’s story invites us to anchor our lives so deeply in Jesus that we can face anything—opposition, accusation, even loss—with boldness and grace. When we know to whom we belong, we can speak with courage. And when we know where our home truly is, we can forgive even as the stones fall.

Reflection Questions:

1. What truths about Jesus or the gospel do you find most difficult to speak, especially when they might create conflict?
2. What would need to be true in your heart for you to respond to persecution or criticism with forgiveness like Stephen?

Prayer:
Lord, give me Stephen’s courage to speak truth, even when it costs me something. Help me to see You clearly in moments of conflict, and let Your presence give me peace. May my words be both bold and full of grace. Teach me to forgive, even in the hardest moments. In Jesus’ name. Amen.