In the prior chapter we read about lying. Now we hear about murmuring (grumbling). Wherever the Lord Jesus and the Holy Spirit act in grace and power, the enemy comes and tries to spoil the work of God. Remember how Israel murmured in the Book of Exodus? The flesh never changes, and only the Lord can help us to keep it from acting. The number of the disciples had greatly multiplied by now, and it must have been a tremendous task to feed so many widows. The apostles told the multitude of disciples to select seven men who were honest, full of the Holy Spirit and wisdom. When this was done, the apostles prayed and showed their fellowship by laying their hands on them. One of the chosen men was Stephen. He was full of faith and power and did great wonders and miracles. He also spoke with such wisdom and spirit that the Jews became angry. They induced false witnesses to say that Stephen said blasphemous words against that holy place and the law. Well, the Lord vindicated His servant by making Stephen’s face shine. The one who was accused of reviling the law and Moses was given the same sign that Moses had. Their unbelief did not allow them to make the connection between the two. Do you not think that a young man named Saul, who was also there, saw Stephen’s face? It surely reflected the glory of heaven’s light!
1. What three things had to be true of the seven men that they chose? __________ Acts 6:___
2. After the apostles prayed for these seven men, what else did they do, showing fellowship with them? __________ Acts 6:___
3. When Stephen spoke, what two things were they unable to resist? __________ Acts 6:___
4. What two things did they say that Stephen was speaking blasphemous words against? __________ Acts 6:___