Acts 7 records Stephen’s defense before the Sanhedrin. He recounts Israel’s history, showing how they repeatedly rejected God’s messengers. His sermon exposes their hardened hearts. His words cut deep, leading to his martyrdom.
This passage is rich with lessons. It highlights God’s faithfulness, human rebellion, and the cost of true discipleship. It warns against resisting the Holy Spirit. It shows the power of forgiveness. It introduces Saul, who later becomes Paul. Below are sermon outlines based on Acts 7. Each explores key themes, doctrines, and applications for daily life. These messages challenge, convict, and encourage believers.
Sample Outlines for a Sermon on Acts 7
#1. Stephen’s Defense: A Journey Through Israel’s History
Theme
Stephen recounts Israel’s history to expose the pattern of rejecting God’s messengers. His defense is not just historical; it is a call to recognize Christ as the fulfillment of God’s promises.
Introduction
Stephen stood before the Sanhedrin, falsely accused of blasphemy. Instead of defending himself, he presented a powerful sermon on Israel’s history. He traced God’s work from Abraham to Jesus, showing how the people consistently resisted Him. His words were not just a history lesson but a direct indictment of those rejecting Christ. His speech reminds us that history teaches powerful spiritual truths, but only if we are willing to listen.
Main Text
Acts 7:1-53
Key Doctrines
1. God’s Sovereignty in History
- God’s plan unfolds through generations. Stephen shows how God called Abraham, guided Joseph, and raised Moses. None of these events were random. They were part of God’s divine purpose. Even when people resisted, God’s will prevailed. His sovereignty remains unshaken today. He works through both blessings and hardships to accomplish His plan.
- God’s faithfulness does not depend on human obedience. Despite Israel’s constant rebellion, God remained faithful. He delivered them from Egypt, led them through the wilderness, and established them in the promised land. Stephen’s sermon proves that God’s faithfulness is unwavering, even when His people are not.
2. The Danger of Resisting God
- Israel repeatedly rejected God’s messengers. Joseph’s brothers sold him into slavery. The Israelites resisted Moses. The prophets were persecuted. Stephen makes it clear—this pattern continued with Jesus. Rejecting God’s messengers is ultimately rejecting God Himself.
- Spiritual pride blinds people to the truth. The religious leaders believed they were righteous, yet they opposed the very One they claimed to serve. Their knowledge of Scripture did not lead them to repentance. It led them to resist the Holy Spirit. Stephen’s sermon warns us to remain humble before God’s truth.
3. Jesus as the Fulfillment of God’s Promise
- The coming of Christ was the climax of Israel’s history. Stephen connects the Old Testament to Jesus. Every covenant, prophecy, and divine act pointed to Him. He is the fulfillment of what God had been preparing all along.
- Rejecting Jesus is the ultimate rejection of God. Just as their ancestors resisted Moses, the Sanhedrin rejected Christ. Stephen’s sermon exposed their guilt. To reject Christ is to reject salvation itself. His sermon forces us to ask—are we truly following Christ, or resisting Him like those before us?
Questions for Application in Daily Life
- How does Stephen’s sermon challenge the way I see God’s work in history?
- Am I truly listening to God’s messengers, or am I resisting His truth?
- In what ways do I struggle with spiritual pride?
- How can I ensure that I am not rejecting Christ in my daily life?
- What steps can I take to grow in humility and obedience to God?
Call to Commitment
Stephen’s sermon is a call to examine our hearts. The Israelites had a long history of resisting God, and the religious leaders of Stephen’s day continued that pattern. We must ask ourselves—are we doing the same? Do we claim to follow God but resist His leading? The danger of rejecting Christ is real. It’s not just about what happened in the past. It’s about what we do today. Will we humble ourselves before Him?
God’s plan will not be stopped. We can either submit to His will or fight against it. If we resist, we will face the consequences. But if we surrender, we will experience His grace and power. Let us choose to follow Him wholeheartedly, without hesitation. Today is the day to say yes to God.
Closing Prayer
Lord, You are sovereign over all history. From Abraham to Jesus, You have been working out Your perfect plan. Yet, so often, we fail to see it. We resist Your truth and harden our hearts. Forgive us for the times we have rejected Your leading. Help us to listen and obey.
Give us the humility to recognize our need for You. Open our eyes to see Christ as the fulfillment of all Your promises. Let us not be like those who resisted the Holy Spirit. Instead, fill us with faith and boldness to follow You completely. Thank You for Your patience and mercy. We commit ourselves to You today.
Amen.
#2. Resisting the Holy Spirit: A Warning to Hardened Hearts
Theme
Stephen rebukes the religious leaders for resisting the Holy Spirit, just as their ancestors did. His words warn us against spiritual pride and rejecting God’s truth.
Introduction
The Sanhedrin prided themselves on their religious knowledge. Yet, they refused to recognize Jesus as the Messiah. Stephen exposed their stubbornness, showing how Israel had always rejected God’s messengers. His sermon forces us to examine our own hearts. Are we truly listening to God, or are we resisting Him like they did? Hardness of heart is dangerous. It can blind us to the very truth that leads to life.
Main Text
Acts 7:51-53
Key Doctrines
1. The Work of the Holy Spirit
- The Holy Spirit convicts and leads to truth. Jesus promised the Spirit would guide believers into all truth. Yet, many resist His voice. When we ignore conviction, our hearts grow cold. Stephen’s audience had all the knowledge of Scripture, but they refused to be led by the Spirit.
- Rejecting the Holy Spirit leads to judgment. Stephen’s sermon is not just historical—it is a warning. Those who resist the Spirit place themselves in danger. God is patient, but there is a point where hardened hearts become unreachable. The Sanhedrin had crossed that line.
2. The Pattern of Resistance in Israel’s History
- Israel’s leaders rejected God’s prophets. Stephen pointed to Joseph, Moses, and the prophets—men sent by God but rejected by the people. This was not a new problem. The leaders of Stephen’s day were simply repeating history.
- Spiritual blindness comes from hardened hearts. The religious leaders were experts in Scripture, yet they failed to see what was right in front of them. Their resistance was not intellectual—it was spiritual. Pride and sin blinded them to the truth.
3. The Danger of a Hardened Heart
- A hardened heart silences conviction. The more we ignore God’s voice, the less we hear it. The Sanhedrin had every opportunity to repent, but they refused. Their resistance cost them everything.
- God desires repentance, not rebellion. Stephen’s words were harsh, but they were meant to wake them up. God does not want to condemn—He wants to restore. But He cannot do so if we refuse to listen.
Questions for Application in Daily Life
- Have I ever ignored the Holy Spirit’s conviction in my life?
- In what ways am I resisting God’s truth?
- Do I allow pride or tradition to keep me from obedience?
- How can I cultivate a heart that is soft toward God?
- What steps can I take to truly listen to the Holy Spirit?
Call to Commitment
Stephen’s sermon was meant to stir repentance, but his audience refused to listen. Their resistance led them to commit an even greater sin—they murdered God’s servant. This is a sobering reminder that spiritual hardness does not remain neutral. If we do not listen to God, we will eventually fight against Him.
Today, we have a choice. Will we open our hearts to God’s truth, or will we resist Him? The Holy Spirit is speaking. He convicts, leads, and calls us closer to Christ. But we must respond. Let us surrender to His voice, repent of our resistance, and walk in obedience.
Closing Prayer
Heavenly Father, You are always speaking to us. Through Your Word, through the Holy Spirit, and through those You send. Yet, so often, we harden our hearts. We ignore conviction, push away truth, and choose our own way. Forgive us for resisting You. Soften our hearts and make us sensitive to Your voice.
Help us to recognize when we are shutting You out. Break down our pride and replace it with humility. Let us never become like those who rejected Your messengers. Instead, fill us with faith and obedience. We surrender to You today.
Amen.
#3. The Glory of God in the Face of Persecution
Theme
Stephen saw the glory of God as he faced death, showing that suffering for Christ is never in vain. His vision reminds us that God’s presence sustains His people, even in persecution.
Introduction
Stephen’s sermon enraged the Sanhedrin. As they rushed to kill him, he looked up and saw Jesus standing at the right hand of God. This moment was significant. Jesus is usually described as sitting, but here, He stands—ready to receive His faithful servant. Stephen’s vision teaches us that God does not abandon His people in suffering. He is present, strengthening them and preparing them for eternal glory.
Main Text
Acts 7:54-56
Key Doctrines
1. The Reality of Persecution for Believers
- Following Christ comes with a cost. Stephen’s death was not an accident. It was the natural result of faithfully proclaiming the gospel. Jesus warned that His followers would face persecution. The world rejected Him, and it will reject those who stand for Him.
- God uses persecution for His purposes. Stephen’s death was not the end—it was a beginning. His martyrdom set the stage for the spread of the gospel. Even persecution serves God’s plan. What looks like a tragedy in human eyes is often a victory in God’s eyes.
2. The Glory of God in Suffering
- Stephen saw God’s presence in his suffering. As he was being stoned, he looked up and saw Jesus. This vision gave him strength to endure. When believers suffer for Christ, they are not alone. God’s presence is real and powerful.
- Eternal glory outweighs earthly suffering. Stephen’s suffering was temporary, but his reward was eternal. Paul later echoed this truth: “Our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all” (2 Corinthians 4:17). This perspective changes everything.
3. Christ’s Role as Our Advocate
- Jesus stands for His faithful servants. In Scripture, Jesus is often seated at God’s right hand, signifying His completed work. But here, He stands. This suggests that Christ actively acknowledges and welcomes His suffering servant.
- Christ intercedes for His people. Stephen was not alone in his suffering. Jesus, the great High Priest, was standing in his defense. This is true for every believer. When we face trials, Christ is our advocate before the Father.
Questions for Application in Daily Life
- Am I prepared to suffer for my faith if necessary?
- How does Stephen’s vision encourage me in times of hardship?
- Do I see trials as a temporary struggle or an eternal opportunity?
- How can I remind myself of God’s presence in suffering?
- What steps can I take to stand firm in my faith, no matter the cost?
Call to Commitment
Stephen’s story reminds us that persecution is real, but so is God’s glory. The Christian life is not free from suffering, but it is full of meaning. The world may reject us, but Jesus stands for us. Our hardships do not go unnoticed. God is with us, strengthening us and preparing us for eternal glory.
If we are faithful to Christ, we may face opposition. But like Stephen, we must keep our eyes on Jesus. The approval of the world means nothing compared to the approval of our Savior. Let us stand firm, knowing that God’s presence sustains us.
Closing Prayer
Lord, You are with Your people, even in suffering. Stephen saw Your glory as he faced death. Help us to have that same confidence. When we face trials, remind us that You are standing for us. Strengthen us to endure whatever comes. Let our faith be unshakable.
We trust in Your promises. We believe that no suffering is wasted. Fill us with courage to stand for You, even when it costs us. May we live for Your glory, knowing that eternity awaits. Thank You for sustaining us.
Amen.
#4. Lord, Do Not Charge Them: Forgiveness in the Midst of Death
Theme
As Stephen was being stoned, he echoed Jesus’ words on the cross: “Lord, do not charge them with this sin.” His prayer reveals the heart of true forgiveness, even in the face of extreme injustice.
Introduction
Forgiveness is one of the hardest commands in the Christian life. It is easy to forgive minor offenses, but what about those who deeply wound us? Stephen’s final words were not cries for vengeance but prayers for mercy. Like Jesus, he forgave those who murdered him. This challenges us to examine our own hearts. Do we hold on to bitterness, or do we extend Christ-like forgiveness?
Main Text
Acts 7:57-60
Key Doctrines
1. The Call to Forgiveness
- Jesus commands us to forgive. When Peter asked how often we should forgive, Jesus responded, “Seventy times seven” (Matthew 18:22). This means limitless forgiveness. Stephen lived out this command, even in his final moments.
- Forgiveness is a sign of true faith. The world seeks revenge, but a Christian seeks mercy. Stephen’s prayer proved his heart was aligned with Christ’s. If we truly follow Jesus, forgiveness must define our lives.
2. The Power of Forgiveness
- Forgiveness releases us from bitterness. Holding grudges hardens the heart. It keeps us bound in anger. But when we forgive, we experience freedom. Stephen died with peace in his heart because he chose to forgive.
- Forgiveness opens the door for God’s work. Saul witnessed Stephen’s prayer. This same Saul later became Paul, the greatest missionary of the early church. Could Stephen’s prayer have planted a seed in Saul’s heart? When we forgive, we create opportunities for God to move.
3. Forgiveness as a Reflection of Christ
- Stephen mirrored Jesus on the cross. Christ prayed, “Father, forgive them” (Luke 23:34). Stephen echoed that prayer. Forgiveness is not just a command; it is Christ’s example.
- We forgive because we have been forgiven. Colossians 3:13 tells us to forgive as the Lord forgave us. If we truly grasp God’s mercy toward us, we will extend that mercy to others.
Questions for Application in Daily Life
- Is there someone in my life I need to forgive?
- Do I hold onto past hurts, or do I release them to God?
- How does Stephen’s example challenge my attitude toward forgiveness?
- What does my response to being wronged reveal about my heart?
- How can I reflect Christ’s forgiveness in my daily life?
Call to Commitment
Forgiveness is not easy, but it is necessary. Stephen did not wait for an apology. He forgave even as stones crushed his body. This is the radical love of Christ. If we claim to follow Jesus, we must forgive as He forgave.
Who do you need to release today? Are you holding onto bitterness? Let go. Give it to God. Pray as Stephen did. Forgiveness is not weakness; it is strength. It sets us free. It opens the door for God’s work. Let us choose forgiveness today.
Closing Prayer
Lord, You have forgiven us of so much. Yet, we struggle to forgive others. Our hearts hold on to pain and resentment. But You call us to something greater. Help us to forgive as Stephen forgave. Give us strength to release every grudge and every wound.
Fill us with Your love. Let us reflect Your mercy to the world. Teach us to pray, even for those who wrong us. May our lives display the power of forgiveness. Thank You for the grace You have given us.
Amen.
#5. From Persecutor to Preacher: The Beginning of Saul’s Transformation
Theme
Saul stood by as Stephen was stoned, approving of his death. Yet, this same Saul would later become Paul, the greatest missionary of the early church. Stephen’s death marked the beginning of Saul’s journey to Christ.
Introduction
Saul, a zealous Pharisee, saw Stephen’s execution as a righteous act. He believed he was defending God’s truth. But God had other plans. The man who approved of Stephen’s death would soon encounter Jesus and be transformed forever. This reminds us that no one is beyond God’s reach. Even the fiercest opponent of the gospel can become its greatest messenger.
Main Text
Acts 7:58
Key Doctrines
1. God’s Sovereignty in Salvation
- God can redeem anyone. Saul was an enemy of the church, yet God chose him to be His instrument. No one is too far gone for God’s grace. If God could save Saul, He can save anyone.
- God’s plan is greater than our past. Saul’s history of persecuting Christians did not disqualify him. Instead, God used it to shape him. Our past sins do not define us—God’s calling does.
2. The Role of Conviction in Salvation
- Stephen’s death may have planted a seed in Saul’s heart. He saw firsthand the faith and courage of a true disciple. Though Saul hardened his heart at the time, the memory of Stephen’s prayer may have stayed with him.
- Conviction often comes before transformation. Saul was not changed instantly. He continued persecuting the church until Jesus confronted him on the road to Damascus. God often works through a process, softening hearts over time.
3. The Power of God’s Calling
- God calls the most unlikely people. The early Christians feared Saul, yet God saw him as a future leader. Human judgment is limited, but God sees beyond who we are to who we can become.
- When God calls, He transforms. Saul did not remain the same. When Jesus changed his heart, he became Paul, a new man with a new mission. Salvation is not just about forgiveness—it is about transformation.
Questions for Application in Daily Life
- Do I believe that God can save anyone, even the worst sinner?
- How does Saul’s transformation challenge my view of God’s grace?
- Are there people I have given up on, believing they will never change?
- How has God worked through past failures to shape my calling?
- What steps can I take to trust in God’s ability to transform lives?
Call to Commitment
Saul’s story is one of radical grace. He deserved judgment, but God gave him mercy. This should fill us with hope. No one is beyond redemption. If God could change Saul, He can change anyone.
Are there people in your life who seem unreachable? Keep praying for them. Keep believing. God’s grace is greater than any sin. And if you feel unworthy, remember—Saul became Paul, and God used him mightily. Let God write your story. Surrender to His call.
Closing Prayer
Lord, Your grace is greater than our worst sins. Saul was Your enemy, yet You called him to be Your servant. This gives us hope. No one is too far gone. Your mercy reaches the hardest hearts. We trust in Your power to transform.
Give us faith to believe in redemption. Help us to see people as You see them—not as they are, but as they can be. Let us never give up on anyone. Use us to be part of Your work of salvation. Thank You for Your endless grace.
Amen.
Closing Thoughts
Acts 7 is a powerful chapter that reveals deep spiritual truths. Stephen’s sermon reminds us of God’s faithfulness, human rebellion, and the ultimate fulfillment of His promises in Christ. His boldness challenges us to stand firm in our faith, no matter the cost. His forgiveness teaches us the heart of Christ. His death was not the end but the beginning of a greater work—Saul’s transformation and the spread of the gospel.
Each of these messages calls us to examine our hearts. Are we resisting God or surrendering to Him? Are we holding onto sin or walking in obedience? Are we willing to suffer for Christ or seeking comfort? May we learn from Stephen’s life and commit ourselves fully to the Lord. Let us trust His plan, stand firm in trials, and proclaim His truth with boldness.