Who Was Stephen? The First Christian Martyr

Stephen holds a unique place in Christian history as the first believer to die for his faith. His short story, told in the book of Acts, is a powerful example of courage, faith, and forgiveness. Here's who Stephen was.

Full of faith and grace

Stephen was one of the first deacons chosen to serve the early church — a man described as 'full of faith and of the Holy Ghost,' full of grace and power. He served the practical needs of the community and boldly proclaimed the gospel, performing wonders and speaking with a wisdom no one could resist.

A bold witness

Stephen's powerful preaching drew fierce opposition. Brought before the religious council on false charges, he gave a stirring defence of the faith, tracing God's work through Israel's history and boldly confronting his accusers' hardness of heart. He didn't soften the truth to save himself.

Forgiving as he died

Enraged, the crowd dragged Stephen out and stoned him. His final words echo Jesus' own on the cross — a stunning act of grace toward his killers: 'Lord, lay not this sin to their charge.' Even in death, he forgave, praying for those who were murdering him.

A seed that bore fruit

Watching approvingly at Stephen's death was a young man named Saul — who would later become the apostle Paul. Stephen's faithful witness and forgiving death planted seeds. His martyrdom, far from ending the church, helped spread it, as believers scattered and carried the gospel further.

Stephen was the first Christian martyr — a man full of faith and grace who boldly proclaimed the gospel and forgave his killers as he died, echoing Jesus himself. His courage and forgiveness remain a model of faithfulness under the ultimate pressure. And his death, witnessed by the future apostle Paul, became a seed that bore fruit far beyond his short life.