“Then they secretly persuaded some men to say, “We have heard Stephen speak blasphemous words against Moses and against God.” So they stirred up the people and the elders and the teachers of the law. They seized Stephen and brought him before the Sanhedrin. They produced false witnesses, who testified, “This fellow never stops speaking against this holy place and against the law.  For we have heard him say that this Jesus of Nazareth will destroy this place and change the customs Moses handed down to us.” (Acts 6:11-14)

     Despite his grace and wisdom, Stephen did not persuade everyone to accept the gospel.  Some rejected it and stirred up false rumors and lies about Stephen.  What motivated them to not only reject the gospel, but to go out of their way to create falsehoods?

     When the gospel of Jesus Christ is presented, sometimes people don’t like what they are hearing, because it reveals a stark reality about our human condition.  If someone is offended and/or desperate enough, they might (as in this case) lash out at the one who is preaching the truth, even to the point of making up stories.  Sad, but true.

     How should we react to those who vehemently oppose the gospel?  Don’t back away from the truth and continue to love them, pray for them, and continue to set the example, doing what Jesus would do.  He never forced anyone to accept his message, but as we pray for others, we can ask that the truth will set them free.

Prayer: Dear Lord, your message of grace and truth continues to this day.  We know that you will continue to work on the hearts and minds of those who are without you.  Remind us to always love them and pray for them.  In Jesus’ name, Amen.