CHARLIE KIRK AND ST. STEPHEN

The comparison of these two martyrs is the purpose of this post. Both were devout Christians, both were ready to discuss their beliefs with others, both were serving God in their called vocations, both were taken to Glory much too soon.

We can readily read and view what Charlie had to say. He was gracious in his speaking, but also blunt when it came to discussing erroneous concepts raised by others. His intellect and knowledge were exceptional; his attitude was loving and patient.

Charlie was very much like Stephen, as recorded in the Book of Acts in the New Testament. The early Church was a sharing body. Food was distributed to the needy, but when the task became too time consuming for the apostles, it took away from their duties to pray, teach and evangelize. So they found a solution.

Acts 6:2-4 (NKJV) Then the twelve summoned the multitude of the disciples and said, "It is not desirable that we should leave the word of God and serve tables; therefore, brethren, seek out from among you seven men of good reputation, full of the Holy Spirit and wisdom, whom we may appoint over this business; but we will give ourselves continually to prayer and to the ministry of the word."

Acts 6:5 (NKJV) And they chose Stephen, a man full of faith and the Holy Spirit. This description certainly applies to Charlie Kirk.

Then critics of Stephen arose and accused him of wrongdoing, with many lies and false rumors. They went to the authorities and demanded that he be silenced. Stephen’s reply to his judges was an historical account of the Old Testament history from Abraham to the current events of his day, namely, the crucifixion of Jesus Christ.

Their response to Stephen was vitriolic. Acts 7:54 (NKJV) When they heard these things they were cut to the heart, and they gnashed at him with their teeth.

But the final straw was when Stephen was given a vision of Heaven. Acts 7:55-56 (NKJV)  But he, being full of the Holy Spirit, gazed into heaven and saw the glory of God, and Jesus standing at the right hand of God, and said, "Look! I see the heavens opened and the Son of Man standing at the right hand of God!"

Not waiting for a verdict from the authorities, Acts 7:57-58 (NKJV) Then they cried out with a loud voice, stopped their ears, and ran at him with one accord; and they cast him out of the city and stoned him.

Whether death from and angry mob or death by a deranged shooter, a saint, at his or her time of passing, will be able to look into Heaven and see their Savior!