Twice a month, the Renewal Ministries staff gathers for a Bible study to read and discuss the Word together. We’re currently making our way through the Acts of the Apostles, and this week we arrived at Stephen’s speech to the Sanhedrin in Chapter 7.

Full disclosure, I’ve often skipped this section because it’s long, detailed, and never felt as exciting as the end of his speech or his dramatic martyrdom. Slowly reading it together, I realized I had made a mistake—Stephen beautifully and eloquently lays out a case for God’s plan fulfilled in Jesus. He weaves together two themes—faith and obedience—and how the Lord has worked through those who believed and despite those who didn’t. The Holy Spirit was clearly working in Stephen’s mind and heart, and even though the men listening responded with anger, we are blessed and inspired by his words.

Go read Acts 7 and ask yourself, “Am I among those who believe and hope in the Lord, or do I disobey and doubt?” Whatever the answer, turn to the Lord today and ask Him to give you the clarity and conviction He gave to Stephen.