What does it really means to have a “hardened heart,” like what cause the pharaoh of Egypt at the time of Israel’s Exodus? Three Hebrew words translated “harden” help us see the spiritual condition at work at that time and with us today. This study reflects on the balance between God’s actions and our choices, and how we can pray for softer hearts and “lips” to become more open, compassionate and effective in our internal and external lives.
This study examines Genesis 23; 1Kings 1 and Acts 7, emphasizing God’s eternal promises over human pursuits of longevity and control. Abraham’s purchase of Machpelah, David’s succession planning, and Stephen’s sermon highlight faith in God’s unfolding plan. While biohacking seeks to extend life, Scripture reminds us that true immortality is only found in Messiah (Christ). Rather than fearing death, believers are called to trust in God’s sovereignty and focus on eternal purpose in Him.
The Sanhedrin and Simon the magician demonstrated a thirst for the power of God without having His Spirit change the heart. God has predestined mankind to be His people and sent Messiah Yeshua to make that possible again.
https://hallel.info/wp-content/uploads/file/081108%20Acts%207v57-8v3%20-%20True%20and%20false%20witnesses%20at%20the%20death%20of%20Stephen.mp3Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 40:15 — 6.9MB)Subscribe: RSSStephen’s death in Acts 7:57–8:3 is more than a tragic end—it exposes the clash between true and false witnesses, empty religion and genuine righteousness. In this study, we explore how Stephen mirrors Jesus in forgiveness, how Saul’s violent zeal sets the stage for his […]
Stephen, one of seven exceptional men the 12 selected as special ministers for the needs of the congregation in Yerushalayim, is accused of blaspheming God and Moshe and speaking against the temple and “the law,” specifically, saying that Yeshua would destroy the temple and “alter the customs Moses handed down to us.” Was Yeshua Messiah or manipulator? Stephen responds with a Peter-like cutting-to-the-heart retelling of Israel’s history.
Stephen, one of the seven servants the 12 picked to serve the Yerushalayim congregation, is brought before the Sanhedrin on a number of serious accusations that the law of God indicates are worthy of death. Before looking at his defense in Acts 7, we should look at what blasphemy is.