Passion City Church DC Podcast How to Handle the Haters | Acts 6:8-8:3
Mar 23, 2026
A look at Stephen’s bold faith, his peaceful witness amid violent opposition, and how his death reshaped the early movement. Stories of rejection, false accusation, and serene courage are explored. Reflections on seeing persecutors with compassion and how persecution unexpectedly spreads the mission.
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Stephen Shows Laypeople Can Preach With Power
- Stephen's ministry combined administrative service with signs and bold public preaching that matched apostolic power.
- Luke highlights Stephen doing wonders and disputing with synagogue leaders until they used slander and false witnesses against him.
Stephen's Sermon Reframes Israel's Story As Repeated Resistance
- Stephen delivers the longest recorded sermon in Acts as a non-apostle, retelling Israel's story to show a pattern of missing God's movement.
- He traces Abraham, Joseph, Moses, the tabernacle, and David to argue Israel repeatedly resisted God's messengers.
Look Up To Jesus When You Face Persecution
- When persecuted, look up to Jesus rather than down at your attackers to find peace and perspective.
- Stephen, full of the Spirit, gazed into heaven and saw Jesus standing at God's right hand, which steadied him as the crowd raged.