1 N ow in those days, when the number of the disciples was multiplying, there arose a complaint against the Hebrews by the Hellenists, because their widows were neglected in the daily distribution.

2 T hen 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.

3 T herefore, 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;

4 b ut we will give ourselves continually to prayer and to the ministry of the word.”

5 A nd the saying pleased the whole multitude. And they chose Stephen, a man full of faith and the Holy Spirit, and Philip, Prochorus, Nicanor, Timon, Parmenas, and Nicolas, a proselyte from Antioch,

6 w hom they set before the apostles; and when they had prayed, they laid hands on them.

7 T hen the word of God spread, and the number of the disciples multiplied greatly in Jerusalem, and a great many of the priests were obedient to the faith. Stephen Accused of Blasphemy

8 A nd Stephen, full of faith and power, did great wonders and signs among the people.

9 T hen there arose some from what is called the Synagogue of the Freedmen (Cyrenians, Alexandrians, and those from Cilicia and Asia), disputing with Stephen.

10 A nd they were not able to resist the wisdom and the Spirit by which he spoke.

11 T hen they secretly induced men to say, “We have heard him speak blasphemous words against Moses and God.”

12 A nd they stirred up the people, the elders, and the scribes; and they came upon him, seized him, and brought him to the council.

13 T hey also set up false witnesses who said, “This man does not cease to speak blasphemous words against this holy place and the law;

14 f or we have heard him say that this Jesus of Nazareth will destroy this place and change the customs which Moses delivered to us.”

15 A nd all who sat in the council, looking steadfastly at him, saw his face as the face of an angel.