Stephen was a credible witness to his faith in Jesus Christ and was filled with the Holy Spirit. He paid the ultimate price and was stoned to death by his enemies. Even in death, Stephen prayed for his enemies and forgave them.
Stephen’s actions and words made him a credible witness..
Stephen’s life and ultimately his death provide an example for us to follow today. Stephen showed us how to victoriously live our lives as faithful followers of Jesus. May we learn from Stephen and be filled with the Holy Spirit, as we, too, reflect God’s glory in all of life’s circumstances.
The Main Point: A credible witness is spirit-controlled, shares the true message and suffers for the truth.
Distinctive definition of a witness in the Acts of the Apostles and for the Church today:
About Stephen:
Stephen’s treatment parallels Jesus’ treatment in Matthew 25:59-62.
As we learn from Stephen, a credible, Gospel witness is evidenced by:
1. Being filled with the Holy Spirit. (Acts 7:8)
2. Being able to face opposition with wisdom and courage. (Acts 7:9-15)
3. Being faithful to the Bible story. (Acts 7:1-50)
4. Being fearless and firm in rebuking wrong. (Acts 7:51-54, 57-59)
5. Finishing well and being received by King Jesus. (Acts 7:55-56)
We are to be faithful at all times and unto death. In Stephen’s farewell, he prayed and gave forgiveness to those who offended, persecuted and killed him. (Acts 7:59-60)
Stephen was seized, Stephen shared and Stephen was stoned.
We are to receive and be filled with the Holy Spirit. Then we can each be a witness, just as Stephen was a witness. We are to:
If you were called on to share your faith, what would you share? Take some time this week to study Stephen’s sermon to the Jewish leaders. Determine what others need to know about faith in Jesus that you would want to share.
If you would like to learn how to share your faith with others in an easy and relational way,Dan Hardaway is leading a one-session class on this topic. The class, Sharing Your Hope with Others, will take place on Thursday, March 16, from 6:30 to 9 p.m., in room 4206-07. Register here.
Lord, we have learned about Stephen who was a credible witness and who became the first Christian martyr. Help us to live our lives like Stephen did, as we share our faith with those who do not yet know about Jesus Christ or who are opposed to our faith. Let us be bold when we share and live out our faith even when it comes at a great cost to us. Give us your grace and strength as we learn to forgive others, just as Stephen did, especially when we are unjustly accused or put down for our Christian beliefs and values.
–Sign up for the Northland Newsletter.
–Participate in the class, "Sharing Your Hope with Others."
–Foxe’s Book of Martyrs by John Foxe
» March 11-12
EMPOWERED | Saul's Conversion | Governing Elder Vince Taylor
» March 18-19
EMPOWERED | Ministry in the City | Senior Pastor Josh Laxton
» March 11-12
EMPOWERED | Saul's Conversion | Governing Elder Vince Taylor
» March 18-19
EMPOWERED | Ministry in the City | Senior Pastor Josh Laxton
Volunteer Opportunities Abound
Towel Holders are needed to serve throughout the church. Put your talents to work, building God's Kingdom in a variety of volunteer roles. There's something for everyone, whether you want to work with our kids, help our tech team with weekend worship, or welcome and guide folks in the parking lot... there's a way for you to make a Kingdom impact.
Partnering With Parents In Education
Registration for Northland’s weekday preschool is now open for children ages 18 months to kindergarten. The Cooperative School at Northland is a weekday, part-time preschool and kindergarten designed for hands-on learners. The Co-op has been operating at Northland for over 35 years, partnering with parents to raise the next generation!
Help Care For Babies At LifeHope Childcare
Love babies? Love God? Have free time during the week? Come be a baby rocker! Ladies of all ages are invited to learn more about this volunteer position with LifeHope Childcare. Orientation is the 2nd Wednesday of every month in The Rink from 2 to 3 p.m. No need to sign up. Just show up and get ready to rock!
Saturday, March 1, March 18, and April 1
Saturday, April 1 we will have an Easter Scavenger Hunt for families and we want your help planning and hosting it! If you are in 4th or 5th grade, this serve project is for you.
Saturday, April 1 from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.
You and your children will hunt for clues related to the story of Jesus' death and resurrection. It's a great way to share the Easter story with your kids and keep the focus on Jesus this Easter season.
Friday, April 7 from 7 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Join us live or online and hear from Pastor Josh. Held the Friday before Easter, Good Friday commemorates the crucifixion of Jesus and His death at Calvary. It is the beginning of what we believe to be the most momentous weekend in the history of the world.
Saturday, April 8 at 5 p.m. & 7 p.m. & Sunday, April 9 at 9 a.m. & 11 a.m.
Join us as we celebrate the resurrection of King Jesus! Children's church is available during all services for kids 6 weeks old to grade 5.