[1] Now in those days, when the number of the disciples was multiplying,
there arose a grumbling of the Grecian Jews against the Hebrews because
their widows were neglected in the daily service. [2] The twelve called the
multitude of the disciples to them and said, "It is not appropriate for us
to forsake the word of God and serve tables. [3] Therefore select from
among you, brothers, seven men of good report, full of the Holy Spirit and
of wisdom, whom we may appoint over this business. [4] But we will continue
steadfastly in prayer and in the ministry of the word." [5] These words
pleased the whole multitude. They chose Stephen, a man full of faith and of
the Holy Spirit, Philip, Prochorus, Nicanor, Timon, Parmenas, and Nicolaus,
a proselyte of Antioch; [6] whom they set before the apostles. When they
had prayed, they laid their hands on them. [7] The word of God increased
and the number of the disciples multiplied in Jerusalem exceedingly. A
great company of the priests were obedient to the faith. [8] Stephen, full
of faith and power, performed great wonders and signs among the people. [9]
But some of those who were of the synagogue called "The Libertines," and of
the Cyrenians, of the Alexandrians, and of those of Cilicia and Asia arose,
disputing with Stephen. [10] They weren`t able to withstand the wisdom and
the Spirit by which he spoke. [11] Then they secretly induced men who said,
"We have heard him speak blasphemous words against Moses and God." [12]
They stirred up the people, the elders, and the scribes, and came on him
and seized him, and brought him in to the council, [13] and set up false
witnesses who said, "This man never stops speaking blasphemous words
against this holy place and the law. [14] For we have heard him say that
this Jesus of Nazareth will destroy this place, and will change the customs
which Moses delivered to us." [15] All who sat in the council, fastening
their eyes on him, saw his face like it was the face of an angel.