Acts 7:55-60, 6:5

Stephen is a universal Christian role model. Most role models are limited to certain circumstances or certain people. Stephen’s life offers an example that is not limited, but is for every single Christian.

When we think of Stephen, we think of his death. He was definitely a model of how to die a martyr’s death with a Christian spirit. He was courageous and at the same time, he was forgiving. He did not die with a spirit of vengeance. He knew he was dying, yet at the same time, he knew he was beginning an eternal life with Jesus. He was not afraid because he trusted in his Lord. Not every Christian will have to follow that model. Most Christians are not martyred. Many die surrounded by family and friends. His death is not a role model for every Christian.

Stephen stood before the Sanhedrin and spoke the truth with boldness and clarity. If we were ever in a situation like that, we would want to react like Stephen. We admire his courage and his speech puts some preaching to shame. However not every Christian will need to defend the faith in public and most will never face false accusations that could lead to their deaths. His actions and his speech at his trial are not a role model for every Christian.

Before he was accused and brought to trial, Stephen performed great wonders and signs among the people. That part of his life is not a role model for most Christians. Although it is true that God still gives some Christians today the opportunity to do wondrous things, most are not.

We find the aspect of Stephen’s life that has a universal application to all Christians existed before the people chose him for ministry. The people knew he was “full of faith and of the Holy Spirit.” Not all Christians will lead ministries, work wonders, defend the faith or die a martyr’s death. All Christians can live lives full of faith and the Holy Spirit.