The Martyrdom of Stephen

Pastor Nick opens his message by welcoming the congregation and inviting them to follow along in Acts chapter 6, as they return to their sermon series on the book of Acts titled Rise. He recaps the first five chapters, highlighting the ascension of Jesus, the coming of the Holy Spirit, the boldness of the disciples, and the rapid growth of the early church despite increasing opposition. Nick uses a personal story about proposing to his wife as a lighthearted illustration of what he calls an "unstoppable plan," paralleling it with God's greater, unstoppable plan for redemption through Jesus.

He explains that God's plan has always been to redeem and restore the world through relationship with His people, starting in Genesis, fulfilled in Jesus, and continuing through the Church today. As he sets the stage for the story of Stephen in Acts 6–7, Nick emphasizes that Stephen is a new leader full of grace and power, performing miracles and facing the same kind of opposition Jesus and other disciples experienced. Stephen’s defense before the religious leaders reminds the audience that God’s story is bigger than their traditions, that His presence isn’t confined to temples or human expectations, and that His victory gives believers courage.

Nick outlines four key reminders from Stephen’s story: God’s story is bigger, His presence can’t be contained, His victory gives courage, and His kingdom moves forward despite opposition. Finally, Pastor Nick challenges the congregation to reflect on their own assumptions about how God works, encouraging openness to God's ongoing movement and mission in the world. Would you like a more condensed version or one that highlights just the theological themes?