For Kids · 4 min with a grown-up
Stephen loves Jesus so much that he stays brave and kind, even when things get very hard.
Today's Story
Stephen was one of the seven helpers, and he was full of God's Spirit. He did wonderful things and told everyone the good news about Jesus.
But some people didn't want to hear it, and they got very angry with Stephen. They dragged him in front of the leaders. Stephen wasn't afraid. Bravely and kindly, he told them the whole story of God's love, all the way from Abraham to Jesus. “God sent Jesus, and He loves you!” Stephen said.
The crowd became furious. But Stephen looked up — and God gave him a beautiful sight! “Look!” he said. “I see heaven open, and Jesus standing there!” Jesus was waiting for him.
Even though the angry crowd hurt him, Stephen did something amazing, just like Jesus had done. He prayed, “Lord, please forgive them. Don't hold this against them.” Then Stephen closed his eyes and went to be with Jesus in heaven.
Stephen was so full of Jesus' love that he stayed brave and forgiving, even on the hardest day — and he got to see Jesus waiting to welcome him home.
A Big Word
Memory Verse
Talk About It
- Stephen bravely told everyone about Jesus, even when it was scary. Where do you think his courage came from?
- Stephen forgave the people who hurt him, just like Jesus did. Why is forgiving so hard? How can God help us?
- Stephen saw heaven open and Jesus waiting for him. How does that picture make you feel?