Is God's goodness there in the dark days? - Acts 7:44-8:3 Sermon | Prescott Anglican Church

The light of Christ overcomes every darkness.

Text: Acts 7:44-8:3

This week, we will see Stephen's death. Stephen is the first recorded martyr of the church. What is most striking about this account isn't Stephen's death itself, but the sharp contrast between man's rage and sin and God's glory and grace. It is unclear exactly who drags Stephen out to be killed - but they are described as being enraged, stopping their ears, dragging, and stoning. These are violent, even frenzied words.

In comparison, Stephen is described as gazing, and as he gazes, he sees God's glory, Jesus standing as though to greet him or judge those who plan to kill him; we see God's grace poured out on Stephen, and likewise, Stephen praying in a way that may seem impossible to us - to forgive those who intend to kill him.

The difference is staggering, humbling, and joy-giving. We know that while the nations rage, God's glory, goodness, grace, and even judgment are not threatened.