One of the chosen leaders of the early church, he is described as full of “grace and power,” and it is said that he performs many miracles “signs and wonders.” In the same way that Peter and John stirred up the authorities, so too Stephen paints a target on his back.

The Pharisees versus the Sadducees versus the apostles…Peter and John are thrown in prison and amidst a quarreling Sanhedrin, Rabbi Gamaliel reasons for their lives.

Hellenists versus Hebrews? Elitist leaders? Let’s clarify existing tensions and introduce a new character: Stephen.