As teenagers, we may face situations where we have to stand up for our faith. It might not be easy, and we may even face opposition, but it is essential to stand firm in our faith. The passage Acts 7:55-60 tells the story of Stephen, who refused to compromise his faith and paid the price. This passage reminds us that standing firm in our faith may be difficult, but it is what we are called to do as Christians.
Why Acts 7:55-60 is Important for Teenagers:
This passage teaches us about the cost of standing firm in our faith. Stephen faced opposition from those who did not believe in Jesus, and he was stoned to death. As teenagers, we may not face physical persecution, but we may face challenges to our faith from friends, family, or society. This passage reminds us the importance of standing firm in our faith and trusting in God, no matter the cost.
Introduction Youth Group Game:
Have the students write down one situation they faced in which they had to stand up for their faith, and what helped them stand firm. Have the students share their stories in small groups of 3-4 and discuss what they can learn from each other.
Bible Reading:
Acts 7:55-56 (NIV)
But Stephen, full of the Holy Spirit, looked up to heaven and saw the glory of God, and Jesus standing at the right hand of God. “Look,” he said, “I see heaven open and the Son of Man standing at the right hand of God.”
Explanation:
- Stephen is filled with the Holy Spirit and looks up to heaven.
- Stephen sees the glory of God and Jesus standing at the right hand of God.
- This is the first time in Acts that Jesus is described as standing, which emphasizes His approval of Stephen’s faith.
Youth Group Discussion Questions:
- What might it mean to be full of the Holy Spirit?
- What is the significance of Jesus standing at the right hand of God?
- Why is it important to recognize Jesus’ approval of Stephen’s faith?
- How can recognizing Jesus’ approval help us stand firm in our faith?
Bible Reading:
Acts 7:57-58 (NIV)
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.
Explanation:
- The opposition to Stephen’s message becomes more intense, and people cover their ears and rush at him.
- The crowd drags Stephen out of the city to stone him to death.
- Saul, who later becomes Paul, is present at the stoning and witnesses Stephen’s faith.
Youth Group Discussion Questions:
- Why did the people cover their ears and rush at Stephen?
- What impact do you think seeing the stoning would have had on Saul?
- What can we learn from Stephen’s willingness to endure persecution for his faith?
- How can studying the stories of those who have faced persecution for their faith strengthen our own faith?
Bible Reading:
Acts 7:59-60 (NIV)
While they were stoning him, Stephen prayed, “Lord Jesus, receive my spirit.” Then he fell on his knees and cried out, “Lord, do not hold this sin against them.” When he had said this, he fell asleep.
Explanation:
- Stephen remains faithful to Jesus even as he is being stoned to death.
- Stephen prays to Jesus to receive his spirit.
- Stephen asks that the people who are stoning him not be held responsible for his death.
Youth Group Discussion Questions:
- How does Stephen’s prayer to Jesus encourage us to trust in God?
- What does it mean to ask others not to be held responsible for our actions or choices?
- How can we show mercy and forgiveness even in the face of persecution?
- How can Stephen’s faith impact the way we approach our own faith and decisions?
Closing Prayer:
Heavenly Father, we thank you for the example of Stephen’s faith and willingness to stand firm in his beliefs. Help us to trust in you, even when our faith is challenged. Give us the courage to stand up for what we believe in and to show mercy and forgiveness to others. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.