Catholic Saints St. Stephen
Dec 26, 2025
Dr. Michael Barber, a scripture scholar and professor at the Augustine Institute, joins Dr. Tim Gray to explore the powerful story of St. Stephen. They highlight Stephen's pivotal role as an early church leader and his eloquent defense of the Christian faith. The discussion delves into Stephen's provocative critique of the Temple and his parallels to Jesus' trial. They also reflect on Stephen's martyrdom, his Christlike final prayers, and how his legacy influenced Saul's transformation into Paul, underscoring Stephen's enduring witness of faith.
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Stephen As The Church's First Apologist
- Stephen is chosen as one of seven leaders (deacons) and stands out for wisdom and being filled with the Spirit.
- His education and eloquence make him the movement's leading apologist who cannot be refuted.
Stephen's Trial Mirrors Jesus
- Stephen faces false witnesses accusing him of speaking against the temple and Moses, mirroring charges used against Jesus.
- This parallel places Stephen in a Christlike role and makes his trial echo Jesus' passion narrative.
Christ Replaces The Temple's Centrality
- Stephen and Luke identify Jesus as the cornerstone, implying something greater than the temple.
- That relocates God's presence from a building to Christ and eventually to the church.