Mosaic Teaching Guide
21 June 09

Teaching Series: Of Spirit and Flesh (3)
Acts 6-7

Question for Everyone: What is the difference between the word “Christian” and the phrase, “way of Jesus?”

Chapter 6

1. Vv. 1-7 Division in the Church
1. “Hellenists complained against the Hebrews because their widows were being neglected in the daily distribution of food” (v.1).
2. The twelve reply: We shouldn’t be involved in distribution of food.  We need to be praying and serving the word.  They appointed a team to take on this ministry.   Stephen was part of this team.
3. The priority of serving the word and prayer.
4. Reflection
2. Vv. 8-15  Stephen Becomes a Target
1. Stephen was a prominent leader in the early church.  He apparently was gifted and humble. He was “full of grace and power” and “did great wonders and signs among the people” (v.8).
2. Reflection

 

Chapter 7

1. Vv. 1-53:  Stephen Responds to His Accusers
1. Stephen tells the story of Israel in response to the accusation that he was 1) speaking blasphemy against Moses and 2) Saying that Jesus will destroy the Temple
2. First though, he begins with the call of Abraham. 
3. First Charge: Blasphemy against Moses: Not Guilty!
4. Second Charge: The Destruction of the Temple: Guilty?
5. e. Reflection
   
   
2. 7.54—8.1  Stephen is Executed
1.  The religious professionals are enraged at Stephen’s indictment.  In the midst of their raging, Stephen sees a vision.
2. “I see the heaven’s opened and the Son of Man standing at the right hand of God” (v.56)!
3. Stephen becomes a martyr.
4. “The word (martyr) technically means witness.  A martyr is someone who gives evidence.  To what does Stephen bear witness?
5. Reflection
   
   
3. 8.1-3 The Church is Scattered.
1. The church is scattered by severe persecution now.
2. Saul, a fire breathing rabbi intellectual goes after the Christians with a vengeance.
3. One might expect that the end is at hand for these Christians, but in fact it is just beginning.
4. Reflection

 

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