By Andrew Williams
“You stubborn people! You are heathen at heart and deaf to the truth. Must you forever resist the Holy Spirit? That’s what your ancestors did, and so do you! Name one prophet your ancestors didn’t persecute! They even killed the ones who predicted the coming of the Righteous One—the Messiah whom you betrayed and murdered.” – Acts 7:51-52 (NLT)
Good morning fellow disciples.
Acts 7:51-52 marks a turning point in Stephen’s defense. After meticulously recounting Israel’s history and God’s consistent faithfulness, Stephen abruptly shifts his tone. He confronts the Sanhedrin with a scathing indictment, calling them “stubborn people…heathen at heart and deaf to the truth.” He accuses them of perpetually resisting the Holy Spirit, just as their ancestors had done, by persecuting and killing the prophets who foretold the coming of the Messiah. This bold declaration reveals the core issue: their hardened hearts prevented them from recognizing and accepting Jesus as the promised Messiah.
As a disciple, you may encounter individuals who are resistant to the gospel, who reject the truth, and who may even persecute you for your faith. Like Stephen, you are called to speak the truth with boldness and clarity, even when it is unpopular or unwelcome. While we are to approach every situation with love, discernment, and sensitivity, there will be times when we must confront hardened hearts and challenge false beliefs. You are empowered by the Holy Spirit to speak the truth in love, even when it is difficult, and to trust that God will use your words to convict and transform hearts.
This week, examine your own heart. Are there any areas where you may be resisting the Holy Spirit, clinging to stubborn beliefs, or turning a deaf ear to the truth? Pray for a soft and receptive heart, willing to be molded and guided by God’s Spirit. When you encounter resistance to the gospel, respond with grace, but do not compromise the truth. Trust that God is at work, even when you cannot see the results. Redirect your focus to pray that hearts will be softened by the power of the Holy Spirit.
Prayer: Heavenly Father, create in me a clean heart and renew a right spirit within me. Help me to be open to Your truth and receptive to the guidance of Your Holy Spirit. Give me the courage to speak the truth in love, even when it is difficult or unpopular. And help me trust that You are at work in the hearts of those who resist the gospel. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
