This account in Acts 7 records one of the most compelling arguments in jurisprudence by a non-lawyer - Deacon Stephen, before an ancient religious court of law. The spirit of God in action caused Stephen to present in a logical, analytical and impressive manner, his defense for his actions as a result his belief in Jesus Christ.
Deacon Stephen who was filled with the spirit of God articulated the history of the Jewish people and their relationship with God from the call of Abraham to the physical manifestation of God in the flesh through Jesus Christ.
Dr. Luke recorded that this defense by Stephen was so inspiring, logical and spiritual, that when he finished, he literally "turned the tables" on his accusers, by directly charging the Council for the act of resisting the Holy Ghost, as "your fathers did, due to stiff-neckedness and uncircumcised heart and ears."
Stephen proceeded to make a rhetorical charge in verse 52, "was there ever a prophet your ancestors did not persecute? They even killed those who predicted the coming of the righteous one. And now you have murdered him – and you who have received the law that was given through angels but have not obeyed it."
The scripture recorded that when the Council heard the Holy Ghost in action defense by Stephen, they were cut to the heart, and they gnashed their teeth at him, but Stephen being full of the Holy Ghost looked steadfastly into the heavens and saw the glory of God, and Jesus standing on the right hand of God (the place of power and authority).
Dr. Luke proceeded to tell us that this angry mob, was not constrained by Stephen’s profound defense, nor were they willing to accept the truth of their rejection of the Messiah, but they became more enraged and cried with a loud voice, stopped their ears, and ran upon Stephen with one accord and stoned Deacon Stephen to death.
Once again, the Spirit of God in action in the life of Stephen demonstrated two of the innate characteristics of himself – humility and forgiveness – even in the death of the physical man. Deacon Stephen in his dying moments, cried with aloud voice, "Lord, lay not this sin to their charge," and then he fell asleep.
This same Holy Ghost in Action is still alive and continues to give power to anyone and everyone. It enables us to withstand the wiles and forces of the devil and strengthens us to surrender to the divine will of God, even if it causes death to the physical man.
Visit Meadowvale East Apostolic Church for a taste of this power NOW!
God Bless You,
Pastor McGann
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