Acts 7:57-60

Extending mercy and grace to others is a big deal to the Father. He sacrificed himself in the Body of Jesus Christ to put an end to death and suffering in those who choose to accept His sacrifice. In His mercy we are saved.

Those of us who have been forgiven much…love much!

When the Spirit of God moves in everything changes. Every. Little . Thing. Just ask Saul!

In response to what the religious leaders see as the height of blasphemy—exalting Jesus alongside God—the trial becomes a mob scene.Death by stoning was the legal penalty for blaspheming the name of God.

Luke (the narrator) introduces the man who will eventually lead the church’s mission to the Gentiles (non-Jewish people)—he is later called Paul. In the meantime, he stands in approving witness of Stephen’s stoning. Faithlife Bible.

Stephen’s work was done. He was immediately ushered into the presence of Jesus. As Jesus had done, Stephen requested mercy for his killers. NKJ Bible.

Acts 7:57–60 (NKJV)

⁵⁷ Then they cried out with a loud voice, stopped their ears, and ran at him with one accord; ⁵⁸ and they cast him out of the city and stoned him. And the witnesses laid down their clothes at the feet of a young man named Saul. ⁵⁹ And they stoned Stephen as he was calling on God and saying, “Lord Jesus, receive my spirit.” ⁶⁰ Then he knelt down and cried out with a loud voice, “Lord, do not charge them with this sin.” And when he had said this, he fell asleep.

Matthew 5:44 (NKJV)

⁴⁴ But I say to you, love your enemies, bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you, and pray for those who spitefully use you and persecute you,

Luke 23:34 (NKJV)

³⁴ Then Jesus said, “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they do.”

And they divided His garments and cast lots.

Psalm 31:5 (NKJV)

⁵ Into Your hand I commit my spirit;

You have redeemed me, O Lord God of truth.