The Jewish leaders were infuriated by Stephen's accusation, and they shook their fists at him in rage. But Stephen, full of the Holy Spirit, gazed steadily into heaven and saw the glory of God, and he saw Jesus standing in the place of honor at God's right hand. And he told them, "Look, I see the heavens opened and the Son of Man standing in the place of honor at God's right hand!" Then they put their hands over their ears and began shouting. They rushed at him and dragged him out of the city and began to stone him. / Acts 7:54-58 (NLT)

In this powerful passage from Acts 7:54-58, we witness the intense reaction of the Jewish leaders to Stephen's words. Their anger and hostility were evident as they shook their fists at him. However, Stephen, filled with the Holy Spirit, remained steadfast and fixed his gaze on heaven. In that moment, he beheld the glory of God and saw Jesus standing at the place of honor next to God.

Stephen fearlessly shared what he saw, declaring the open heavens and the exalted position of Jesus. It is intriguing to consider how the Jewish leaders, in that moment, had the opportunity to look up and witness the divine revelation themselves. However, their hearts were hardened, and instead of embracing the truth, they responded with resistance and violence. They covered their ears, trying to drown out Stephen's words. Their rage escalated as they rushed at him, dragged him out of the city, and began to stone him.

This passage serves as an important reminder of the clash between truth and opposition. Stephen's unwavering commitment to God's truth, even in the face of hostility and persecution, is a powerful example. It challenges us to fix our gaze on Jesus, especially during times of adversity and opposition. We are called to rely on the Holy Spirit's guidance and strength, enabling us to stand firm in our faith.

As we reflect on this passage, let us consider how we can maintain a steadfast focus on heaven, even when faced with opposition or hostility. May we be willing to boldly proclaim the truth, even when met with resistance or violence. Let us actively seek heavenly perspectives, allowing the glory of God to shape our outlook and actions.

In times of persecution, which are self-defined and may vary in their forms and intensities, let us fix our eyes on Jesus as our ultimate source of strength and inspiration. May we have the courage to stand strong in His truth, relying on His power to navigate the challenges we face.

Prayer

Heavenly Father, I come before You, seeking Your presence and guidance in the midst of opposition and hostility. Just as Stephen fixed his gaze on You in, I ask that You fill me with Your Holy Spirit, empowering me to stand firm in my faith. Help me to keep my eyes focused Jesus, where Your glory is revealed, so that I may find strength and courage in Your presence. Grant me the resilience to endure persecution and remain unwavering in my devotion to You. May Your light shine through me, even in the face of adversity, and may Your name be glorified in all that I do. Amen.

Reflection Questions

1. How can you maintain a fixed gaze on Jesus, especially during times of opposition or hostility, just as Stephen did in Acts 7:54-58?

2. What steps can you take to rely more on the Holy Spirit's guidance and strength, enabling you to stand firm in your faith when faced with challenges?

3. In what ways can you actively seek heavenly perspectives in your life, allowing the glory of God to shape your outlook and actions, even when confronted with opposition or difficulties?

Hymn: Turn Your Eyes Upon Jesus

Watch Sunday's Message:

Hymns for Spiritual Formation: Turn Your Eyes Upon Jesus

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