Study Notes on Stephen's Imitation of Christ

Imitation of Christ

  • The goal of believers in Christ is to become like Jesus.
  • Imitating Jesus is seen as a pathway to glory, joy, purpose, power, and significance in life.
  • The early church's mission is highlighted in the Book of Acts, particularly through the example of Stephen.

Stephen as an Imitator of Jesus

  • Stephen is acknowledged as one of the best imitators of Jesus in the Bible.
  • Introduction of Paul (Saul) during this narrative:
    • Paul is referred to as the artist formerly known as Saul, whose transformation will unfold in forthcoming chapters.
  • Paul's exhortation from 1 Corinthians 11: "Imitate me as I imitate Christ."
  • The text suggests that Stephen's imitation of Jesus influences Paul’s transformation and ministry.

Importance of Focus

  • The central idea is that who you look at, you will become like.
  • Where you stare, you will steer, implying a direction in life and the development of character.
  • "Who you behold, you will become" emphasizes the necessity of focusing on Christ to develop Christ-like qualities in oneself.

Beholding Christ

  • Believers are invited to behold the glory and splendor of Christ to become more like Him.
  • This process does not rely on one’s own strength; rather, it is powered by Christ.
  • The source of the Christian life is from, through, and to Christ.
  • Believers are reminded that they are clothed in Christ’s righteousness, having received new life through Him.
  • The metaphor of a toddler in their father’s coat illustrates that while clothed in Christ, believers must still grow into that identity.

Focus on Stephen

  • The study will focus on three aspects of Stephen:
    1. What he says (his speech)
    2. How he suffers (his suffering)
    3. What he sees (his sight)

Stephen’s Speech

  • Stephen’s speech is significant, showcasing his position as a servant and deacon without a strict divide from the ministry of the Word.
  • Key observations about Stephen’s speech:
    • Filled with Goodness:
    • Stephen is described as being filled with grace, power, the Holy Spirit, and wisdom.
    • His being filled compels him to serve and leads to performing miracles, frequently stepping outside traditional roles.
    • Verse 8 of chapter 6 emphasizes his fullness: "Stephen, full of grace and power…"
    • Biblical Content:
    • In response to accusations, Stephen opens his mouth and speaks Scripture, similar to Jesus.
    • The metaphor of tea bags illustrates how pressure reveals what is inside - when squeezed, Scripture comes out.
    • He presents a detailed retelling of the Old Testament, drawing connections from major figures, culminating in the person of Christ.
    • Christ-Centered Focus:
    • Stephen's articulation is centered on Jesus, presenting Him as fulfilling both the temple and the law of Moses.
    • He responds to the false accusations against him regarding the law and the temple, explaining that Jesus is the true fulfillment of both.
    • Stephen asserts that God does not dwell in human-made temples and highlights key figures from Scripture to drive his point home, including Abraham, Joseph, Moses, and David.
    • Practical Application:
    • His sermon culminates with pointed application to his listeners, warning them that their ancestors had always resisted the Holy Spirit, calling for heart transformation rather than mere outward compliance with the law.
    • The confrontation is both an exhortation to personal introspection and a challenge to resist hardening of one's heart.

Stephen’s Suffering

  • Stephen faces his impending suffering with poise and faith. This moment reflects Jesus' own suffering.
  • Full of the Spirit, he gazes into heaven and sees the glory of God with Jesus standing at God's right hand, as opposed to seated, which is a unique depiction symbolizing advocacy.
  • His final words reflect the grace of Christ, asking God not to hold the sin of those stoning him against them, showcasing a heart of love and forgiveness.
  • The stark contrast between the response to Peter’s sermon (repentance and baptism) and Stephen’s (rage and persecution) emphasizes differing human reactions to the gospel.

Realistic View on Suffering

  • The discussion underlines that suffering is an inherent part of the Christian life.
  • Acknowledges that various forms of suffering exist, sometimes due to personal choices or the actions of others.
  • Stephen shows that:
    • He suffers with faith: Believes that Jesus’ suffering grants him strength.
    • He suffers with hope: Looks to Christ for redemption and future glory.
    • He suffers with love: His forgiveness for his executioners illustrates the profound love of Christ.

Vision of Christ

  • Stephen's vision of Christ standing next to God showcases both affirmation and approval of Stephen's faithfulness.
  • Stephen dying peacefully (“fell asleep”) represents the Christian metaphor for death and resurrection as a transformation to an eternal state of being.

Final Exhortation

  • Believers are encouraged to look to Christ amid difficulties, to find hope, joy, and strength in struggles.
  • The sermon concludes with a plea for each listener to behold Christ and recognize that everything of significance comes through Him.
  • Encouragement to invite others to see the gospel as a transformative power that invites personal growth into Christ's likeness.

Conclusion

  • The essence of the message reiterates that Jesus is the source of life and significance,
  • The challenge of life lies in maintaining focus on Christ in order to truly grow into the representation of His likeness.