The Persecuted Church | Acts 6:8–15; 7:54–8:3

Summary

TA walked through the story of Stephen, the first follower of Jesus to be killed for his faith, showing us both the reality of persecution and the faithfulness of God in the middle of it. While many of us don’t experience this kind of opposition, millions of Christians around the world do. This passage invites us to see them as family, to be moved by their suffering, and to respond in a way that reflects Jesus. Alongside this, we heard from the Graves family, who shared their experience serving in a closed country and what it looks like to follow Jesus, even when it comes with a high cost. Even in the face of death, Stephen trusted God, reflected Christ, and played a role in spreading the gospel.

Key Takeaways

• The reality of the persecuted church (Acts 7:54–58). Persecution is not just something we read about in the Bible; it’s happening right now. While many of us have freedom, millions of followers of Jesus are facing opposition, suffering, and even death for their faith.
• The response of the persecuted church (Acts 7:55–60). Stephen shows us what it looks like to follow Jesus in suffering. He trusted God, fixed his eyes on heaven, and responded with grace.
• Our responsibility in light of the persecuted church (Acts 8:1–4; Acts 1:8). We are part of the same family, which means their suffering should matter to us. We are called to pray, give, and go—and to live with urgency, knowing the gospel is still moving to the ends of the earth.

Discussion Questions

• What stood out to you most from Stephen’s story or from what the Graves family shared?
• Why do you think it’s easy to feel disconnected from the persecuted church?
• How did Stephen reflect Jesus in the way he responded to suffering?
• How should knowing about the persecuted church change the way we live?
• Spend time praying for followers of Jesus around the world who are facing persecution. Ask God to give them protection, endurance, and boldness. Ask him to grow your awareness and compassion for the global church, and to help you live faithfully with the freedom you’ve been given.