“When the members of the Sanhedrin heard this, they were furious and gnashed their teeth at him. But Stephen, full of the Holy Spirit, looked up to heaven and saw the glory of God, and Jesus standing at the right hand of God. ‘Look,’ he said, ‘I see heaven open and the Son of Man standing at the right hand of God.’ ”
– Acts 7:54-56
When Stephen preached boldly in front of the Sanhedrin, he knew he was walking right into his demise. Nevertheless, he did it for the sake of those listening. His heart was so on fire for his Savior that he was willing to face intense persecution, and ultimately give his life for Jesus, and as the first Christian martyr, he set an example that millions through the centuries have followed. After accusing the religious officials of killing Jesus, the Bible says that members of the court gnashed their teeth at Stephen and threw stones at him. As he was about to die, this man of God saw the heavens open up and saw Jesus standing at the right hand of the Father to welcome him home. This is the only time in the New Testament that Christ is standing and not sitting, and He’s doing it in honor of this precious soul who loved Him enough to give his life. Friend, when you stand for God, He’ll stand for you! If you want to hear Jesus say, “Well done, good and faithful servant,” be like Stephen. Be willing to go the extra mile for widows, young people, and those who are hurting. In short, be ready to live and die for the sake of the Gospel. If you’re prepared to let your own blood be the seed that plants trees for tomorrow, then I believe that Christ will be standing at the end of your days on earth to welcome you home to Heaven! |
Prayer
Jesus, I want to stand for you so you will stand for me.
Reflection
How can you stand for Jesus today?
If you’re unable to attend your local church or need some additional weekly inspiration, be sure to tune into Hour of Power every Saturday night at 6:30 p.m. PT on TBN or watch online at hourofpower.org/episode.
One Response
Thank you Bobby! I never miss a Sunday with you! I’m thrilled to see the videos from your grandfather.
I visited the Crystal Cathedral and supported his ministry.
And you have your grandfather’s anointing!
You have my support. God bless.