Read Acts 6:7-15
- How does Stephen’s opposition try to stop him first?
- Given what the Scripture said, what can we surmise about what Stephen is saying?
- What about the arguments his opposition are presenting?
- Could Stephen have done anything different to change the response of his opposition? Why or why not?
- What does that tell us about our own presentation of the Gospel?
- When arguing didn’t work, how did they oppose him?
- Have you ever seen someone brought to salvation by losing an argument?
- How hard is it to play by the rules when someone else isn’t?
Read John 8:42-47
- Looking through the lens of this Scripture at Stephen and his opposition, what insight do we gain?
- What outcome do you think Satan is trying to accomplish when we face persecution?
- Does the fact that people rejected the message from Jesus himself change how you view the rejection you may face when presenting the gospel? How?
Read Acts 7:54-8:8
- What parallels do we see in the persecution of Stephen and the persecution of Christ?
- Does Stephen appear surprised at the outcome of his persecution? Why or why not?
- What are some reasons Luke may have had for mentioning Saul’s presence at this event?
- What did Stephen’s persecution lead to?
- Should our righteous actions lead to the persecution of the Church?
- What did the persecution of the Church lead to?
- Should we fear persecution? Should we be excited about persecution?
Read Matthew 5:10-12 and Romans 8:28-30
- What is unique about the type of persecution Jesus says is rewarded?
- Why is that important?
- What’s the difference in something being for our good and being what we want?
- In what ways might these Scriptures comfort someone facing persecution?
- How can we pray for you?