Acts 7:29-53 Stephen's Speech January 20

Stephen's Speech

Acts 7:29-53

The Call of Moses (Exodus 3:1-22)
Acts 7:29-38
The Rebellion of Israel (Exodus 32:1-35; Deuteronomy 9:7-12; Amos 5:16-27)
Acts 7:39-43
The Tabernacle of the Testimony (Exodus 40:1-33; Hebrews 9:1-10)
Acts 7:44-47
Heaven Is My Throne (Isaiah 66:1-6)
Acts 7:48-53

What is the longest speech you've ever listened to? Was it exciting or boring? Why? What makes a speech or sermon interesting to you?
In which ways are you “just like your mother” or “just like your father”?

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• God is ... What do we learn about God in this passage?
• We are ... What do we learn about people in this passage?
• What constant pattern of reaction to God’s work in history by his own Hebrew race did Stephen see and point out?
• From Acts 7:44-50, what is his point about the temple and God's presence? How is he turning the tables against his accusers once again? 
• What is the value of this sort of factual account of God’s work in history?
• What does Stephen mean by the phrase "uncircumcised hearts and ears" (Acts 7:51-53)? In this context, what is Stephen really saying about the Sanhedrin's regard for Moses and the Law? How does his charge reveal the reason why he gave them this history lesson? 
• Did Stephen deliberately provoke them to murder him? Explain. What ignited the wrath of the Sanhedrin against Stephen?
• I will ... What has the Holy Spirit revealed to us in this passage? How can I apply it to my life this week?
• In what ways could the charges that Stephen makes against the leaders be made against you? How might you be "stiff-necked" this week? How will you begin to bow to God in that area now? 
• Has Stephen's review of Old Testament history encouraged you? Challenged you? Confused you? Would you say that the old law is more like a stranger or a close friend to you? How does this speech show the importance of the first covenant to the early Christians? What will you do to let its importance grow for you?
• You can ... Who do you know who needs to hear this? Feel free to share with others by social media links at the bottom of this.

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