Stephen Prays as Stones Are Raised

Stephen stands beneath a rocky ridge with his hands lifted in prayer while accusers behind him raise stones for execution. His upward gaze recalls the final witness of the first Christian martyr, who entrusted his spirit to the Lord Jesus as violence gathered around him. The barren setting and elevated figures emphasize rejection by the crowd, yet Stephen’s posture centers the scene on faith rather than fear. In Acts 7, Stephen’s testimony before the council culminates in a vision of the Son of Man standing at the right hand of God. His death becomes a defining moment in the early church: a servant filled with the Holy Spirit bears witness to Christ, forgives his persecutors, and seals his preaching with his life. This artwork is suited for teaching on martyrdom, persecution, forgiveness, courage, and the cost of discipleship. by Jeff Preston