This Sunday we continue our series in the book of Acts, talking about the church, leaving the building, and being the tangible hands and feet of Jesus. We’ll be in Acts 7, looking at the very first martyr in church history. The message is titled “Free to Forgive.”

We’ll examine Stephen’s interaction with those who were hateful toward him—how he responded and where he found his confidence. Stephen had a deep trust in God’s Word and a close relationship with the God of the Word, which gave him boldness to stand up for God. There is much to apply here for us. 

There’s so much in this passage, but we’re going to focus on how he responds, praying for the forgiveness of those who were hurting him. What a countercultural and wild idea! The early church faced both physical suffering and relational hurt, yet Stephen’s response shows the power of forgiveness, even toward those God would use in the future. 

Many of us miss out on the true freedom God offers because we withhold forgiveness. Forgiveness is a trademark of Jesus, and it is meant to be a trademark of His followers. The church never responds with violence, but always with forgiveness, and we see that powerfully in Stephen’s example.

We’ll spend time this Sunday talking about what forgiveness truly is, what freedom truly looks like, and what it requires from us as a church. It’s easy to talk about reaching the world for Jesus—until they hurt you. What if the hurt comes from those who claim Jesus? This will be a heavy Sunday, and I’m already praying for you, church, as we explore this together. 

WEBSITE: https://five39.church/

FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/five39church/

INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/five39church/

PODCAST: https://anchor.fm/five39-church/