Breaking Ground
What was your biggest irrational fear growing up?
The Dig
This Sunday, we began our new series Stephen’s Speech; where we’re exploring the life of Stephen, the Church’s first martyr. Specifically, in the following weeks, we’ll be diving deep into Stephen’s famous speech before the Sanhedrin (Israel’s powerful religious court); where, instead of giving into fear, Stephen boldly challenges Israel’s most powerful leaders & spoke truth to corrupt power (which ultimately leads to his execution). However, before getting to his speech next week, we’ll first take some time to explore Stephen’s life before this climactic moment.
With this mind, begin by reflecting on your own understanding of martyrdom.
Who comes to mind when you think of people who have courageously spoken truth to power at the expense of their own lives? How were they able to stand firm to their convictions despite facing such danger? What marked their lives before & after their deaths?
Next, read Acts 6:1-15. Here, we’re introduced to Stephen as a faithful, aspiring leader within the early Church. In particular, he’s described as being:
- Humble, gracious, & other-focused
- Willing to engage in common service
- Wise & passionate about building Christ’s Kingdom
- Courageous, faithful, & brave
What stands out to you about Stephen’s life? What attributes or qualities do you find most inspiring about Stephen?
How do you think these characteristics & activities prepared Stephen for standing before the Sanhedrin & remaining committed to his convictions?
Ultimately, Stephen’s speech, testimony, & death became a major catalyst for the growth of the Church; as it sends the disciples from Jerusalem into the world & marks the Apostle Paul’s first step towards becoming a Christian.
How does this legacy impact your thoughts on Stephen’s life & death (if at all)?
Close by reflecting on how Stephen’s story can speak into our own lives & faith journeys.
What does Stephen’s testimony teach us about what it means to remain faithful to our convictions in the midst of challenge, opposition, & struggle?
Consider the qualities, descriptions, & activities that marked Stephen’s life before his speech. Which of these do you already see in your own life? Which are lacking?
What parts of your common, daily life would you need to change in order to grow more into the model of courage & faithfulness that Stephen offers us? How can you start making those changes this summer?
Coming Out of the Hole
Take time to reflect on the Sunday sermon & how this week’s teaching might speak into your daily life.
- Read Acts 6. What stands out about Stephen’s character & life? What qualities & activities do you admire?
- How does Stephen offer us an example of discipleship as a daily practice? In what ways does he reflect Jesus & how did he foster this in his life?
- What pieces of Stephen’s testimony could you work on adopting in this next season?
Journal, reflect, & pray on how God might be speaking to you through each week’s teaching. Share your experience with your growth group next week!
Additional Resources*
TheBibleProject.com
The Moral Vision of the New Testament by Richard B. Hays
The Early Christian Letters for Everyone by NT Wright
Coming Up This Week:*
Sunday, June 9th: Join us next Sunday as we continue our series Stephen’s Speech!
* Please see mye3.org for details.