Acts 7 in the King James Version (KJV) is the account of Stephen’s speech before the Sanhedrin, where he recounts the history of Israel and boldly defends his faith in Jesus Christ. It concludes with his martyrdom. The key lessons from this chapter include: 1. The Importance of Understanding God’s History and Plan (Acts 7:1-53) – Stephen recounts the history of Israel, beginning with Abraham, and highlights how God’s plan has unfolded through the patriarchs, the prophets, and Moses. He shows that God’s plan was not confined to the Jewish people alone, but was pointing toward the coming of Jesus Christ, the Messiah. The lesson here is the importance of understanding God’s redemptive history as revealed through Scripture, and recognizing how it points to Jesus as the fulfillment of God’s promises. 2. Faithfulness to God’s Calling (Acts 7:9-16) – Stephen reminds the council of the faithfulness of figures like Joseph and Moses, who, despite facing hardship and rejection, trusted in God’s calling. The lesson is that faithfulness to God’s calling, even in the midst of suffering or rejection, is crucial. God has a purpose for each believer, even when circumstances seem difficult or uncertain. 3. The Rejection of God’s Messengers (Acts 7:51-53) – Stephen accuses the religious leaders of being “stiffnecked” and resisting the Holy Spirit, just as their ancestors resisted the prophets. He highlights that the rejection of God’s messengers (like Jesus) is a pattern throughout Israel’s history. The lesson here is the danger of hardening one’s heart and resisting the truth of God’s Word. It reminds believers to remain open to God’s guidance and not reject His message, whether through Scripture or the Holy Spirit. 4. Courage to Speak the Truth (Acts 7:54-60) – After his bold speech, Stephen is stoned to death, but before he dies, he sees a vision of Jesus standing at the right hand of God. Stephen’s courage to speak the truth, even in the face of persecution and death, serves as a powerful example for Christians. The lesson is the importance of boldly declaring the truth of the Gospel, regardless of the consequences, and trusting in God’s presence and strength in times of trial. 5. A Christ-like Attitude in the Face of Persecution (Acts 7:59-60) – As Stephen is being stoned, he prays for his persecutors, asking God to forgive them. This mirrors Jesus’ own words on the cross, “Father, forgive them.” The lesson is the call to forgive those who persecute us and to respond with grace and mercy, reflecting the heart of Christ in our actions, even when we face injustice. In summary, Acts 7 teaches the importance of understanding God’s redemptive history, remaining faithful to God’s calling, avoiding the hardening of the heart, boldly speaking the truth, and demonstrating a Christ-like attitude in the face of persecution. It encourages believers to stand firm in their faith, speak the truth, and love even those who oppose them.