SCRIPTURE:
At this they covered their ears and, yelling at the top of their voices, they all rushed at him, dragged him out of the city and began to stone him. Meanwhile, the witnesses laid their coats at the feet of a young man named Saul.
Acts 7:57-58
OBSERVATION:
This moment captures a profound divine irony. Stephen, the first Christian martyr, is being killed for faithfully witnessing about Jesus Christ. At the same time, the witnesses place their coats at the feet of a young man named Saul, who is actively approving of Stephen’s execution. What a climactic moment Luke, the author added of Saul appearance in this moment as a fierce opponent of the gospel, yet God already knows that this same man will become Paul, the apostle to the Gentiles. What seems like a defeat for the church is actually part of God’s greater redemptive plan. Stephen’s death and Saul’s presence show that God is at work even in moments of violence and resistance. This verse teaches that opposition to the gospel does not mean God is absent; often, it is part of His unseen preparation.
APPLICATION:
As Christians, we will and should expect to face opposition in many areas of life. This opposition may come from co-workers, businesses, strangers, friends, and even family members. Faith in Christ often challenges values, beliefs, and priorities, and that challenge can create tension and resistance. A certain family member of mines disagrees with my faith and mention have to rethink things with my kids, as a threat that no longer should reach out. The enemy seeks to divide, distort truth, and create misunderstanding, fear, and hostility toward the gospel. When opposition arises, it can be tempting to withdraw or back down from faith, but Stephen’s example reminds me that faithfulness must continue even in the midst of resistance.
Even when I encounter people who oppose or reject the truth, I must not lose hope. There may be a “Saul-like” character standing nearby proud, blind, and resistant yet God may be preparing a redemption story in that very place. Stephen never lived to see Saul’s transformation, but his faithfulness played a role in God’s unfolding plan. Similarly, my obedience and witness, even when opposed, may be planting seeds of transformation that I will never fully see.
To remain steadfast, I will remind myself that resistance does not equal failure. I will focus on obedience, trust God’s timing, and respond with grace and integrity. I will anchor my hope in God’s redemptive purposes rather than in immediate results or approval from others. This strengthens my faith so that resistance does not shock or discourage me, but instead draws me closer to Christ and deepens my trust in His work.
PRAYER:
Lord, help me to remain faithful when I face opposition in my community, and relationships. Strengthen my trust in You when obedience brings misunderstanding, rejection, or conflict. Help me to respond with grace, speak truth boldly, and forgive those who oppose me. Remind me that You are at work even in moments I cannot see, and that You can transform hearts, just as You did with Saul. Give me courage to remain steadfast and hope that looks beyond the present resistance to Your eternal redemptive plan. Amen.
