Sermon Video: The Martyrdom of Stephen - Acts 6:8-8:2

The powerful story of the martyrdom of Stephen in Acts marks the moment when Christianity became a new religion, and not just a reform movement within Judaism.  On it's surface, it is also an important message about remaining faithful to the Gospel of Jesus Christ no matter what the consequences might be.  There is another message for those willing to listen to it, one that may be difficult to hear, and that is the sermon of Stephen itself.  If you read the sermon of Stephen, it begins as a summarization of the history of Israel as God's Covenant people.  As it progresses, the emphasis shifts to the lack of faith and disobedience of the people, especially the trouble that Moses had in trying to lead them.
When Stephen reaches his conclusion, that his audience are heirs of that "stiff-necked" heritage, the trial itself has become a referendum on those sitting in judgment.  Are they followers of the prophets of old, or are they followers of the unbelieving generation that died in the desert?  The question is easily answered by Stephen's conclusion, "you who have received the law...but have not obeyed it."  To obey the Law is to follow Moses, to ignore it is to follow the path of rebellion.
When you read the story of Stephen, who do you identify with?  Most readers would assume that they're on Stephen's side, that they stand with the martyrs against oppression, hatred, and rebellion.  Most would assume that, but Stephen's question remains, do you obey the Word of God?  Everyone who obeys, by faith, can rightly claim to be a follower of Jesus Christ, those who do not, are sitting with the Sanhedrin.
When you hear the Truth, from God's Word or God's modern-day prophets, what is your response?

To watch the video, click on the link below
Sermon Video