Stephen
Pronounced STEE-vun
- Meaning
- "Crown; Wreath"
- Origin
- Greek (Stephanos)
Stephen means "crown" or "wreath" in Greek, and he was the first Christian martyr — earning the ultimate crown of glory. Stephen was one of seven men chosen to serve the early church as deacons, described as "a man full of faith and of the Holy Ghost." Stephen's defense before the Sanhedrin in Acts 7 is the longest speech in the Book of Acts — a masterful survey of Israel's history showing how the nation repeatedly rejected God's messengers. His accusers "were cut to the heart" and stoned him to death. As he was dying, Stephen echoed Jesus' words: "Lord, lay not this sin to their charge." Remarkably, a young man named Saul watched approvingly — the same Saul who would later become the apostle Paul. Stephen's martyrdom and prayer may have planted seeds in Paul's heart.
Spiritual meaning
Stephen's name — 'crown' — prophetically described his destiny. His courageous witness and gracious death remind us that the highest crown is not worn in this life but received in the presence of Christ.
Related verses (KJV)
"And they chose Stephen, a man full of faith and of the Holy Ghost."
Acts 6:5 (KJV) →"And he kneeled down, and cried with a loud voice, Lord, lay not this sin to their charge. And when he had said this, he fell asleep."
Acts 7:60 (KJV) →