Face of An Angel  

 Acts chapter 6 

     The number of disciples was increasing. Widows of Grecian Jews were being overlooked in the daily distribution of food. The Twelve (as the apostles were known) wished to focus on "the ministry of the word of God," not waiting on tables. They said, "Brothers, choose seven men from among you (disciples) who are known to be full of the Spirit and wisdom. 

     Imagine going to a restaurant and your waiter is full of the Spirit and wisdom...and speaks prophetic inspiration. 😀 

     Stephen not only served food, but he also performed "great wonders and miraculous signs." All that didn't sit well with "members of the Synagogue of the Freedmen, Jews of Cyrene and Alexandria and the provinces of Cilicia and Asia." They argued with Stephen. Unable to refute his or the Spirit's wisdom, they spread lies, resulting in his arrest by the elders and teachers of the law.

     Verse 15: Stephen's "face was like the face of an angel."  

(C)  Baptism alone is not sufficient for leadership. Effective church leaders devote time for prayer and ministry. They have single-minded fidelity. 

     Today the seven men chosen would be called deacons. They had a history of perseverance in godliness and faithfulness to the Spirit's leading. 

     Stephen's speech before the Sanhedrin was a defense as preached by Christ and the apostles. He was a forerunner of all who defend Biblical faith, and the first to die for it, willingly. 

Tomorrow: Stephen is stoned