In the previous post, we listened to the powerful final words of Jesus on the cross. Words that offered forgiveness, surrendered His spirit, and declared victory even in suffering. Today, we continue our series, “Last Words on Death Row,” not with the words of a king, but of a servant. Not from a cross, but from a pit of stones.
Stephen may not be as widely remembered as Jesus or Paul, but his final words still echo through time with boldness, faith, and radical love. If Jesus’ death was about atonement, Stephen’s death was about witness – the kind that costs you everything. His story confronts us with this question: What does it mean to follow Jesus, even when the cost is your life?
Let’s explore what Stephen’s last words tell us—not just about dying for Christ, but living for Him.
Who Was Stephen?
Stephen was one of the first deacons chosen in the early church (Acts 6:5), described as “a man full of faith and of the Holy Spirit.” He was a preacher, a miracle worker, and a man of wisdom who couldn’t be silenced by religious arguments. His boldness put him on trial before the Sanhedrin, where he delivered one of the most convicting sermons recorded in the Bible.
The response? Rage. They dragged him outside the city to be stoned. And in that place of pain, Stephen delivered his final sermon—not with words of bitterness, but of vision, surrender, and love.
Stephen’s Last Words on Death Row
“Look,” he said, “I see heaven open and the Son of Man standing at the right hand of God.” —Acts 7:56
“Lord Jesus, receive my spirit.” —Acts 7:59
“Lord, do not hold this sin against them.” —Acts 7:60
1. “I see heaven open…” – Eyes on Eternity
As stones were raised, Stephen looked up. Not in fear, but in focus. And what he saw wasn’t his enemies—it was Jesus standing, not sitting, at the right hand of God. Most Scripture describes Jesus sitting in authority (Colossians 3:1), but here—He stands. As if to honour Stephen’s faithfulness. As if to say, I see you.
🗝 Takeaway: When you stand for Jesus, Jesus stands for you. In moments of suffering, let your eyes lift to where your help comes from (Psalm 121:1-2).
2. “Lord Jesus, receive my spirit.” – Trust in the Face of Death
Stephen’s surrender echoes Jesus’ own words from Luke 23:46. In his final breath, Stephen entrusted his life into Jesus’ hands. He didn’t plead, panic, or try to escape. He handed over his spirit—because he knew his real life was just beginning.
🗝 Takeaway: Faith is not only trusting God in life but also in death. Let your heart be anchored in eternity, even when earth is shaking around you.
3. “Do not hold this sin against them.” – Forgiveness on His Lips
Stephen’s final sentence? A prayer for his killers. Like Jesus, he asked for their forgiveness. He didn’t curse them or demand justice. Instead, he showed mercy.
One of those standing by was Saul—who would later become Paul. Perhaps it was this moment, this radical love, that planted the first seed in his heart.
🗝 Takeaway: Never underestimate the power of forgiveness. Your love could be the seed that transforms a future world-changer.
What Stephen Teaches Us Today
Stephen didn’t just preach the Gospel—he lived it. His death shook the church, spread believers far and wide (Acts 8:1), and helped ignite the global mission of Christianity.
- Live boldly for Jesus – Even when it’s unpopular or risky.
- Keep your eyes on heaven – Let eternity shape how you respond to trials.
- Forgive radically – Even when you have every reason not to.
- Surrender fully – Let your life be in God’s hands, not your own.
- Trust God’s purpose in your pain – He brings glory from ashes.
Reflection
What would your last words say about your faith?
Stephen’s story challenges us to live now with the kind of faith that doesn’t wait until the end to be bold. It’s a reminder that even when the world turns against us, heaven stands with us.
Whether you’re facing opposition or just trying to be faithful in a quiet season, let Stephen’s words guide you. Keep your eyes up. Trust the One who receives your spirit. And forgive, because eternity is watching.
In our next post in the Last Words on Death Row series, we’ll explore the final words of Paul, the missionary who once held the coats as Stephen died. Isn’t it just like God to turn persecutors into preachers?
Stay with us.
John Thole is the voice behind Beyond Salvation, a blog that captures the highs and lows of life through faith, laughter, and honest reflection. With a passion for storytelling, technology, and spiritual growth, he creates content that resonates with seekers, believers, and anyone navigating life’s journey. Whether sharing personal insights, devotionals, or thought-provoking discussions, John aims to inspire, uplift, and spark meaningful conversations.
