The Martyr Stephen as a Forerunner of Christ as a Counterbalance to Christmas

St. Stephen's Day

Third Edition

Gospel of Matt. 23:34–39 Christ’s Witnesses

Jesus said to the teachers of the law and the Pharisees:

“Therefore, behold, I send you prophets, and wise men, and scribes; and some of them you will kill and crucify; and some you will scourge in your synagogues, and persecute from city to city. And so you will become guilty of all the innocent blood shed on earth, from the blood of righteous Abel to the blood of Zechariah son of Barachiah, whom you murdered between the temple and the altar. Truly, this generation will be held responsible for all these things!

Jerusalem, Jerusalem, you who kill the prophets and stone those sent to you! How often I have longed to gather your children together, as a hen gathers her chicks under her wings, but you would not come! Therefore, behold, your temple is left to you desolate. For I tell you, if you do not love me, From now on, do not say, ‘Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord!’” (Matt. 23:34–39, Third Edition)

The Opposite of Christmas

Christmas is a time when we celebrate the birth of Jesus, God’s great gift to humanity. In addition to this joy, on St. Stephen’s Day we remember the first martyr, Stephen, who served as an encouraging example of faithfulness as a witness for Christ. Stephen’s story is still relevant and instructive today. Let’s examine his life, his preaching, his role in the early church, and how his legacy relates to the message of Jesus.

On Christmas Day, we enjoy peace, family ties, and joy, while on St. Stephen’s Day we look back at the courageous sacrifices made by martyrs. For example, in 2020, over 4,700 Christians were killed for their faith around the world. Stephen not only embodied the struggles of Christians of his time, but his life and death reflect the deep faith that Jesus taught. His example inspires us today to stand firm in our faith.

Stephen: The First Martyr

Stephen was one of the first preachers of Christianity. His passion for the gospel led him to the point of becoming the first martyr for his faith. The book of Acts tells us that he was “full of faith and of the Holy Spirit.” This was reflected in his powerful speech and actions, many of which were “great wonders and signs.” His bold preaching provoked opposition among the Jews, leading to his eventual condemnation and stoning.

Stephen’s Bold Preaching Style

Stephen’s sermon in Acts 7 focuses on key themes of salvation history, such as God’s promises and the lives of the prophets. He highlights how the people of Israel have rejected God’s chosen people. Although his message was factual, it aroused the anger of his listeners, and in the end they decided to silence him with violence. Still, he remained fearless, and his message reminded his listeners of their own choices.

The Power of Martyrdom and Prayer

Stephen was given the opportunity to defend himself when charges were brought against him. His opponents had hired liars to testify against him. Stephen used this opportunity with courage and raised questions about God’s justice and the events of history. His speech was not only a criticism, but also a heartbreaking cry for salvation. Moments like these challenge us to understand what true faith requires.

Stephen’s death was a harsh moment that reflects the extreme sacrifices of a martyr’s life. When he was stoned, he prayed for his murderers in the same way that his Lord Jesus did on the cross. Such acts demonstrate the greatest power of a martyr: the ability to love his enemies and pray for them. His last words, “Lord, do not hold this sin against them,” have gone down in history as powerful and reverent. They remind us that martyrs are the beacons of the light and love of faith.

Jesus’ Message and Warnings

Jesus warned the Pharisees of the coming judgment. His message, “Jerusalem, Jerusalem, you who kill the prophets and stone those sent to you,” is still relevant today. This division that Jesus describes has been real throughout history. Those who are open to the message and those who reject it. Through the life and death of Stephen, we see this division continue: those who believe in Christ often face opposition, and the world is full of examples of modern-day believers who experience the same.

Stephen is a historical figure, but his example lives on. It is important for us to ask ourselves: What is our role as witnesses of Christ in our time? Faithfulness and courage can manifest themselves in many ways. Even if we do not face physical violence like Stephen, we may experience isolation or ridicule when we proclaim our faith. Examples like Stephen’s remind us that courage means standing up for the truth, even if it comes at a cost.

Summary and Continuing Inspiration

We have traveled from the joy of Christmas to the commemoration of the courage and sacrifice of St. Stephen’s Day. Stephen is more than a martyr; he is our example, encouraging us to persevere through the pains and trials of life. His story is a reminder that hearts can be heavy, but we can always find strength in our faith and prayer. Let us remember Stephen, but also Jesus, who unites us as followers of Christ. On Boxing Day, we honor one of the first and bravest, Stephen, a witness to Christ who lives through his prayer and courage.