The early church was not a utopia. Greek widows were discriminated against by the Jewish believers. The Jewish apostles call a congregational meeting where 7 Greek deacons are appointed to take care of the matter. One of them, Stephen, is falsely accused of blasphemy and brought before the Sanhedrin.
In defense, Stephen tells the whole history of Israel, highlighting that they have always rejected God's anointed ruler and redeemer for Israel, mentioning Joseph, highlighting Moses, then mentioning the other prophets they persecuted. They reject and stone him, Saul holding their coats for them, approving.
Application: who are the Hellenist widows in your church, who are being overlooked?
Would you think to defend your faith by recounting Israel's history? How well do you know your spiritual family history?
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