Vol II: #58 The Courage of Stephen
For reasons I can’t explain I’ve thought a lot about Stephen this year- the first martyr. The Bible says he was a righteous man initially tasked with feeding the poor. He fed the poor and much more. He also performed “signs and wonders.” Like all good Christians, Stephen was found to be at odds with the non-believing Jews. They said he preached about the destruction of the temple and rebellion against the laws of Moses. Standing before a Council, Stephen gave his defense. I assume he thought he could wow them with his understanding of the Torah. He was wrong.
Our hero didn’t help himself when he called the Council “stiff-necked” and “uncircumcised of heart.” If I know anything about New Testament, I do not want to stand before a Jewish Council. It doesn’t end well. Jesus was crucified (who remained silent.) Peter was flogged, as were others. Paul spent so much time in front of various Councils, they should’ve given him a guest pass to use the back exit. My guess is Stephen hurt his cause by insulting his accusers. Read the room buddy, am I right? Poor guy.
The idea of martyrdom is stark and unkind. Today we become heroes for simply appealing to our tribe in the face of persecution…like being forced to wear a mask. Gimme a break. What Stephen did he did alone, without camera phones or instant celebrity status. He made his defense of faith and God with the knowledge of what was to come. (Thankfully, Paul was a witness to the event and was able to add it to his account in Acts.) What a boss. What an example of courage. It’s a type of bravery I want. And when I say I wish I had his courage, I’m not wishing to be martyred. I’m saying I want to stand when I know I’m going to lose.
