Stephen, the First Martyr
Ilumi Kids · Stories
In the city of Jerusalem, there was a man named Stephen. He was one of the apostles' first helpers, and his heart was full of faith and the Holy Spirit. People loved him because he was kind and cared for those in need.
God gave Stephen special power to do great wonders and signs. Everywhere he went, he showed Jesus' love in an amazing way. His wisdom was so great that no one could argue with him.
Stephen was full of faith and of the Holy Spirit, and he helped people in need. Some leaders made up lies about him. Before the council, his face shone like an angel’s, and he told the story of God’s people that pointed to Jesus. As he was being killed, Stephen saw Jesus in heaven and prayed, forgiving those who attacked him.
Where it is in the Bible: Acts 6—7
The love of Jesus teaches us to forgive even those who hurt us.
After reading, use these questions to help your child remember and apply the story.
In the city of Jerusalem, there was a man named Stephen. He was one of the apostles' first helpers, and his heart was full of faith and the Holy Spirit. People loved him because he was kind and cared for those in need.
God gave Stephen special power to do great wonders and signs. Everywhere he went, he showed Jesus' love in an amazing way. His wisdom was so great that no one could argue with him.
But not everyone was happy with Stephen. Some religious leaders became jealous and angry. They didn't like that Stephen spoke about Jesus with such courage, so they made up lies about him and took him to the council of leaders.
Even surrounded by angry men, Stephen felt no fear. He looked at everyone calmly, and something wonderful happened: his face began to shine like the face of an angel. God was with him.
All who were sitting in the Sanhedrin looked intently at Stephen. They saw that his face was like the face of an angel. — Acts 6:15
Before the council, Stephen had a chance to speak. He didn't defend himself angrily, but began to tell the long and beautiful story of God's people. He spoke about Abraham, Joseph, and Moses, reminding everyone how God had always been faithful and caring.
With great wisdom, he explained that this whole story pointed to Jesus, the Savior God had promised. Stephen wanted them to understand that Jesus was God's greatest gift to everyone.
Stephen's words made the leaders even more furious. They didn't want to hear the truth and began to shout. But Stephen was no longer paying attention to them. Filled with the Holy Spirit, he looked up to heaven.
Suddenly, he saw something no one else could see: the glory of God shining brightly. And, next to God, he saw Jesus standing, welcoming him into heaven. It was a wonderful vision!
Stephen: Look! I see heaven open. And I see the Son of Man standing at God’s right hand!
The furious crowd dragged Stephen out of the city. Even amidst such evil, Stephen's heart was full of love, just like Jesus'. He knelt down and made one last prayer.
He didn't ask God to punish those people. Instead, he asked God to forgive them. Stephen was the first follower of Jesus to give his life because of his faith, showing everyone the power of forgiveness and love until the very end.
Lord, don’t hold this sin against them. — Acts 7:60
