Dying – A Great Opportunity

Acts 7:54-8:3

Two parts of death:

1. Biological death is the human body ceasing to function
2. Spiritual death is the soul separated from God and under his eternal judgment

Some Biblical insights about death:

• Death is our enemy. 1 Corinthians 15:25-26
• Death came into the world through sin. Romans 5:12
• Christ will eventually destroy death – 1 Corinthians 15:26.
• Christ gives us victory over death. John 11:25-26; 1 Corinthians 15:54-57

What can we learn from Stephen’s death?

• If you speak out for God you probably will suffer for it. 2 Timothy 3:12; Acts 26:10-11
• “A Christian who lives life based on the world’s values is no threat to Satan.”
• When you suffer for Christ He will be with you and help you (vv. 55-56). Isaiah 6:1; 1 Peter 1:8-9
  • Help you find strength in His deity  Mark 14:61-62; Daniel 7:13-14
  • Help you trust Him with your life 1 Timothy 2:5
  • Help you experience His welcoming presence Hebrews 1:3; Daniel 3; 2 Corinthians 5:6-8

• When you suffer for Christ, He will enable you to display His character (vv. 59-60). 1 Peter 4:19; Luke 23:34a; 1 Peter 4:14; 2 Corinthians 12:9-10
• Jesus Christ will use your suffering for Him for His greater purpose (8:1) 1 Corinthians 15:58