1. The blood of the martyrs Acts 6.8 – 8.1

2. The story so far…. Spirit launches church - ch 1-2 An exhilarating community - ch 2 Supernatural signs - ch 3 Trouble and deliverance - ch 4 Holiness and healing - ch 5 Team structures release life – ch 6 MORE trouble and no deliverance! – ch 6- 7

3. 1. The church advances Apostles….STEPHEN….Philip…..Peter….Barn abas and Paul……more apostles Stephen becomes a deacon….and then an apostle Serving does not limit you, but prepares you for the ministry God has for you

4. 2. The church advances through men of character Full of grace and power – v.8 Full of faith – great wonders and miraculous signs – v.8 Full of wisdom and the spirit – v.10 (v.3) Such people also arouse jealousy and opposition!

5. 3. The church advances through men of revelation The charge: he speaks against Moses (the law), and against the temple (God’s dwelling-place) His rebuttal: Abraham met God in Mesopotamia; Moses met him in the desert: He’s the Lord of heaven and earth! Moses received living words from God; but God’s people regularly turn away from them.

6. 4. The church advances through people of heavenly vision Stephen’s concern: to follow the Spirit and obey God’s word. (v.51-53) Stephen’s vision: heaven open, the glory of God, the Son of Man standing at the Father’s right hand. Stephen’s heart: even in death, to bless and forgive.