All people

New Testament · Early Church

Stephen

Servant and first Christian martyr

LIFE & LESSONS

Understanding Stephen

Listen to this summary

Hear the summary and related KJV verses.

Story overview

Stephen was chosen to help oversee fair care for widows in the growing Jerusalem church. He was known for faith, wisdom, and the Holy Ghost.

Key moments

He performed signs, answered opponents, delivered a sweeping testimony about Israel’s history, saw a vision of Jesus, and was killed for his witness.

RELATED VERSE · KJV

“But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth.”

Acts 1:8

Strengths and struggles

Stephen joined practical service with spiritual courage. Even while dying, he prayed for those attacking him.

What we can learn

Stephen demonstrates that humble service and bold witness belong together, and forgiveness can endure even severe injustice.

RELATED VERSE · KJV

“Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved.”

Acts 4:12

RELATIONSHIPS

People in the story

The apostlesThe Jerusalem churchSaul

WHERE TO READ

Acts 6–7

QUICK REVIEW

What did you learn?

Answer all three correctly to complete this profile.

1. Who watched the garments during Stephen’s death?
2. In which part of the Bible is Stephen's story primarily found?
3. Which Bible book is most closely connected with this profile?