Stephen
d. c. AD 30s
Greek-speaking Jerusalem believer whose speech and execution in Acts made him Christianity's paradigmatic first martyr.
Life and Historical Setting
Acts introduces Stephen among seven men appointed after Greek-speaking widows complained of neglect in daily distribution. He is depicted preaching, performing signs, disputing in synagogues, and being accused before the council.
Work and Contribution
His long speech retells Israel's history around resistance to God's messengers and challenges confidence in the Temple. The narrative connects his death with the scattering of believers and the first appearance of Saul.
Reception and Influence
Christians came to call Stephen the protomartyr, and his forgiveness of his killers echoes Jesus in Luke. Churches, art, and preaching have used his story to discuss witness, service, violence, and costly conviction.
Evidence, Debate, and Interpretation
Acts is the only first-century narrative source for Stephen, and historians debate how much the speech reflects Stephen and how much Luke's composition. “Hellenist” describes language and culture but should not be made into a simple theological party label.
Quotes
“Lord, do not hold this sin against them.
Known For
- First Christian Martyr
- Speech in Acts 7
- Service to the Jerusalem Community
Influenced By
- Jesus of Nazareth
- Hebrew Scriptures
Influenced
- Christian Martyr Tradition
- Paul the Apostle
Conversations
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