Scripture/Text: Acts 7:54-8:4; This week, Pastor Matt concludes our two-month study through the Jerusalem section of Acts (chapters 3-8). In this final message, he preaches from Acts 7:54-8:4, where we see the first martyrdom in the early church and the beginning of the gospel's expansion beyond Jerusalem. The main point of the sermon is that the Lord Jesus expands God's house in us and through us by the way of the cross. As Stephen faithfully follows Christ to the point of death, we are reminded that the growth of God's kingdom often comes through suffering, sacrifice, and Spirit-empowered courage. Through Stephen's witness and the resulting scattering of believers, God begins to fulfill His mission to reach the nations, showing that even persecution cannot stop the building of His church.

Sermon Outline:



1. Expansion — In Us (Acts 7:54-60)

2. Expansion — Through Us (Acts 8:1-4)

Discussion Questions:

How does this passage demonstrate how God builds His house?
How does Daniel 7:13-14 help us further understand Jesus and why He calls Himself the Son of Man?
What is the significance that Stephen used the same words as Jesus when he was being killed?
How do Acts 6 and Acts 7:1-11 help us further understand the connection between Jesus and Stephen?
How does Philippians 3:20-21 help us better understand this passage?
How do you tend to respond to suffering? How do your beliefs about suffering reveal what you truly believe in?
How do other New Testament passages like Colossians 1:24 or the book of 1 Peter help us further see Jesus in suffering?
What is the significance of how God used Saul to build His church?
How has God used evil in your life for good and for His purposes?
How does this passage connect with the mission of Embassy Church in Matthew 28?
How have you responded when Christians are persecuted?
How have you seen God use suffering and pain for His glory in your life and in the lives of those around you?
What encouragement do we have in knowing Jesus has victory over death? How does this help us amidst suffering?
How does this passage exhort you to live out your faith in Christ?
How does this passage encourage you to respond to the persecuted church?
How does Stephen's response amidst death, challenge, and suffering exhort you to respond amidst difficulties?