The answer is: True

Acts 7:58

When we look at the story of Stephen in Acts, it's hard not to feel the weight of his brutal fate. Stephen was not just any person, but one of the first deacons of the early Christian church and a passionate preacher, known for his deep insights into Jewish law and the gospel of Jesus Christ. The stoning was a desperate reaction from a group of religious leaders who couldn’t handle the challenge he posed to their authority.

Interestingly, Stephen’s death marked a significant moment in the expansion of early Christianity. Immediate aftermath? A rift was created—but it ignited a wave of evangelism. Acts 8:1 notes that a fierce persecution broke out in Jerusalem, prompting many followers to scatter. Talking about trivia: did you know that Saul, who later became Paul and authored a significant portion of the New Testament, was present at Stephen's stoning? He held the coats of those who threw the stones, giving us a haunting image of the intertwining path between his prior life as a fierce persecutor and later, as an ardent follower of Christ.

Stephen’s final moments included a remarkably graceful and forgiving plea, reminiscent of Jesus’ own words on the cross. This powerful echo demonstrates the profound theme of forgiveness and unwavering faith even in the face of death. Stephen becomes a pivotal figure, with his legacy continuing to influence modern faith through those seminal events. His story stretches beyond sorrow—it inspires, urging believers today to reflect on courage and conviction in their beliefs.