In this message, Stephen emphasizes the divine origin and significance of the Church, which he describes as the continuation of Christ's life and work. He references Matthew 16:18, where Jesus declares He will build His Church on the confession of Peter, highlighting that the Church's concept was conceived by God before the world's foundation. Stephen explains that the Church was birthed through the travail of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, particularly during the events leading up to Pentecost. He notes that the disciples' collective prayer and obedience were crucial for the Church's birth, as they awaited the Holy Spirit's promise. On Pentecost, the Holy Spirit descended, uniting the believers into one body, signifying that Jesus is both Lord and Christ. Stephen stresses that the Church is not merely an organization but a living body, where each member is essential. He concludes by urging believers to recognize their interdependence within the body of Christ, emphasizing that just as they cannot do without Christ, He cannot do without them, fostering a sense of unity and purpose among believers.
1 And when the day of Pentecost was fully come, they were all with one accord in one place. 2 And suddenly there came a sound from heaven as of a rushing mighty wind, and it filled all the house where they were sitting. 3 And there appeared unto them cloven tongues like as of fire, and it sat upon each of them. 4 And they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance.
12 Then returned they unto Jerusalem from the mount called Olivet, which is from Jerusalem a sabbath day’s journey. 13 And when they were come in, they went up into an upper room, where abode both Peter, and James, and John, and Andrew, Philip, and Thomas, Bartholomew, and Matthew, James the son of Alphaeus, and Simon Zelotes, and Judas the brother of James. 14 These all continued with one accord in prayer and supplication, with the women, and Mary the mother of Jesus, and with his brethren.
6 When they therefore were come together, they asked of him, saying, Lord, wilt thou at this time restore again the kingdom to Israel? 7 And he said unto them, It is not for you to know the times or the seasons, which the Father hath put in his own power. 8 But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth. 9 And when he had spoken these things, while they beheld, he was taken up; and a cloud received him out of their sight.
18 And I say also unto thee, That thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.