Central Truth

Great wisdom is questioned today— as in Stephen’s time. Now, as then, we seem unable to cope with supernatural power or the logic of Truth—it seems threatening. It negates our personal control of outcomes and sacrifices our beliefs and desires, leaving us exposed to the unknowns life brings.

Reflections

I remember when David received his diagnosis of anaplastic astrocytoma— brain cancer. His company wanted 2-3 opinions. The best doctor was sought out, the cutting edge treatments were given— and the prognosis didn’t change from doctor to doctor. He was given six months to two years to live with a 2-5% survival rate. As treatment days started, David and I often talked about how to face this pain as a family and how to teach our children how to ”live Truth” during the hard times of life. Some who watched us lean on God couldn’t cope with our relationship of trust in a God greater than our circumstances— or His decision in the outcome, whatever it would be. They were quick to give cancer centers credit, but to a God who gave us nine years instead of two? “What they can do in medicine!” was their pale conclusion, giving control to men, lessening the involvement of Truth, or a sovereign God.

Nine years later, David went home to the LORD. Along the way, smiles and laughter were shared, lessons in living with uncertainty learned, and the joy and boldness of conviction that comes with watching God was evident. A passion to let others know of victory in the failed attempt of medicine and man prevailed. As David’s heaven-going came closer, a passion grew within us to share about our God, the One who would help us through.

Stephen knew the possibilities that lay ahead; his accusers' allegations were coming fast and furiously! But the Council’s arguments failed. Stephen’s passion and conviction rose within him. His face radiated an anxiousness to shout truth; his face shone “as that of an angel." The good news was welling up and he was waiting to shout his excitement over the God he served. He was ready—in life or death.

Am I?

Discussion Questions

1. How do you recognize wisdom and truth in our society today? Is there a circumstance that causes a reaction to truth in you, rather than your embracing it?
2. Was there a time at which you recognized GOD’s wisdom and Spirit in one who was speaking? What brought the speaker to share that truth?
3. Are you confident of the Truth in you? Why or why not?
4. In scripture it is stated, “[T]hey were unable to cope with the wisdom and the Spirit with which he was speaking." (Acts 6:10)
           a. Why do you think this is so?
           b. Do you really believe this will happen for you?
5. Stephen’s passion for the Truth was evident (verse 15) and God made it obvious to his accusers. Have you ever found yourself excited by circumstances which empower you to proclaim truth? Summarize this and share it with others.