More Opposition

Acts 6:8–10 (NASB95) 

8And Stephen, full of grace and power, was performing great wonders and signs among the people. 9But some men from what was called the Synagogue of the Freedmen, including both Cyrenians and Alexandrians, and some from Cilicia and Asia, rose up and argued with Stephen. 10But they were unable to cope with the wisdom and the Spirit with which he was speaking. 

Acts 6:8-10 describes the beginning of Stephen's ministry and the opposition he faced, highlighting the power of the Holy Spirit at work in him and the growing conflict between the early church and some Jewish leaders. The passage describes Stephen as "full of God's grace and power," performing "great wonders and signs among the people." The term "grace" (χάρις) can refer to both divine empowerment and favor, suggesting that Stephen possessed both supernatural abilities and a compelling personality. This combination of spiritual gifts and natural talents made him an effective witness for the Gospel. Like the apostles, his ministry was accompanied by signs and wonders, demonstrating the continued work of the Holy Spirit in the early church. 

Stephen's ministry attracted opposition from certain Hellenistic Jews, specifically those associated with the "Synagogue of the Freedmen," as well as individuals from Cyrene, Alexandria, Cilicia, and Asia. Synagogues in Jerusalem often served as social and religious centers for Diaspora Jews. The "Freedmen," or their ancestors, were likely former slaves of Roman citizens who had gained their freedom and, in many cases, Roman citizenship. This diverse group of opponents suggests that Stephen's message was reaching a wide audience but also that his ministry was challenging established beliefs and practices within these communities. 

Despite their efforts, Stephen's opponents "could not stand up against the wisdom the Spirit gave him." Stephen's wisdom was not simply intellectual brilliance but a divinely imparted ability to speak with authority and persuasiveness. This wisdom, empowered by the Holy Spirit, enabled him to defend the Gospel effectively and refute his adversaries' arguments. Stephen's success in these debates likely further fueled the opposition's anger and resentment, setting the stage for the conflict that would follow. 

Like Stephen, we should seek to be filled with God's grace and power, allowing the Holy Spirit to work through us in word and deed. Stephen's example reminds us that true wisdom is not merely intellectual knowledge but a divinely imparted gift that enables us to speak the truth boldly and clearly. By relying on the Holy Spirit and remaining faithful to God's word, we can effectively share the Gospel and make a difference in the lives of others, even in the face of adversity. 

Blessings, 

Ryan Goodnight